March Chanco Chatter

In This Issue:

Farewell to Hutch

We Are Hiring for Summer Staff

Bring a Friend to Camp

Summer Camp Open House

Spring Work Weekend

Chanco’s Big Day of Giving

Alumni Weekend

Virginia’s Best Camp Seeking Summer Camp Director

Farewell to Hutch

Chanco on the James is sad to announce that Will "Hutch" Hutchisson has announced his resignation as Program Director. We are grateful for the time that Hutch spent with us, the summer season that he oversaw last year, the great staff that he is putting together for the 2024 season, and his service to our retreat groups and programs.

While we are sorry to see him leave, we are excited for Hutch to continue his career in the non-profit sector and wish him well in this next chapter of his life.

Hutch shares,

“I have cherished the opportunity to get to know each of you over the last year. I feel called to continue my work within the nonprofit field and have received the opportunity to do so at Jacob’s Chance, an organization in Richmond focused on empowering individuals with developmental, intellectual, and/or physical disabilities through inclusive programs.

Working within the Episcopal Ministry in the Diocese of Southern Virginia has been an incredible experience and I don’t plan on being a stranger to this place."

Best wishes Hutch on your next journey.

We Are Hiring for Summer Staff!

We are looking for staff who love the outdoors, love working with kids and are devoted Christian counselors who want to make an impactful experience for campers. If that sounds like you or someone you know, come join us at Camp Chanco!

Positions include housing, meals, training and pay well for the summer with additional work opportunities. You must be at least 18 years old to apply.

Positions Available Include

Kitchen Staff

Counselor

Ropes Instructor

Lifeguard

Nature Instructor

Please email programs@chanco.org for more information or apply now!

APPLY NOW

Bring a Friend to Camp!

Do you have friends who are still undecided about their summer plans? Now is the perfect time to introduce them to the magic of Camp Chanco!

Refer a friend to sign up for one of Chanco's 2024 Summer Camp Sessions and get a $100 coupon to use as a discount towards your camp or use it in the camp store!

Keep the referrals going and you might go to camp at no cost!

How it works:

Spread the Word: Get your friends to sign up for camp.
Mention You: During the registration process, your friend mentions your name as the referrer.
You Both Win: You receive $100 of Chanco Bucks, and your friend gets ready for an unforgettable Chanco summer!

Call, (888) 724-2626, or email us at hospitality@chanco.org to learn more and start referring your friends today!

Summer Camp Open House!

April 13 • 1–5 p.m.

Summer Camp at Chanco on the James is an unparalleled experience with a history dating back over 50 years! What makes us so special? Not only are we located on the banks of the James River with a breathtaking natural backdrop for adventures, we have diverse program offerings that cater to the different interests of kids and we offer campers opportunities for spiritual growth, reflection and exploration of faith. Oh, and we have won the "Best Summer Camp" in Virginia Living Magazine's "Best of" every year since 2014!

Join us for our open house event, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chanco and explore all that awaits you. Meet our enthusiastic counselors, traverse our picturesque grounds, indulge in complimentary hot dogs, test your archery skills, take a hayride and, perhaps even challenge your courage as you soar through the treetops on our exhilarating zip line.

Don't miss this opportunity to glimpse the magic of Chanco's summer camp firsthand—come see what all the excitement is about!

For more information please call 888-724-2626

Spring Work Weekend

April 26–28

Join us for an exciting and fulfilling weekend at Chanco during our Spring Work Weekend! This is a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with old friends, forge new friendships, and give back to the Chanco community by lending a helping hand with various spring projects. Whether you're passionate about outdoor activities, maintenance tasks, or simply enjoy socializing, there's something for everyone to enjoy during this rejuvenating weekend.

In addition to the array of projects, a main focus for our Spring Work Weekend will be the continuation of crafting a comprehensive trail system tailored to accommodating guests of all physical abilities. We invite you to bring your tools and enthusiasm to contribute to this important endeavor.

Join us for the entire weekend to partake in evening social gatherings or opt to join us on Saturday for a day of productive work starting at 9 a.m. Whether you come solo or with your family, all are warmly welcomed to participate. Be sure to register early to secure your spot and take advantage of our complimentary overnight accommodation in chalets or Watson Lodge!

Chanco’s Big Day of Giving

SAVE THE DATE

May 8

Because of Chanco…

The stories are numerous and may even be yours! Join us as we share our stories that have transformed our lives and our communities. Chanco will host the Big Day of Giving on May 8, 2024 asking you to share a “Because of Chanco…” story and help inspire others to celebrate your story, tell their own, or just make a contribution to ensure others will have the opportunity to attend our programs in a shared space where we can live in the outdoors and feel the impacts of our faith…because of Chanco…and because of YOU!

More details coming soon!

Learn More

Alumni Weekend

May 10–12

Come join us for fun and fellowship at this year’s Alumni Weekend to reconnect with old friends, form new friendships, and share memories of past summers at Camp Chanco. We’ll offer many of our traditional camp activities from ropes to aquatics, as well as live music on the Bluff. Various accommodation options will be offered in either a single or shared motel room, as well as chalet camping. Participants under 21 must be accompanied by a parent and/or guardian.

Shared Room: $140 • Private Room: $220 • Chalet: $100

Please contact Marjorie Gay at hospitality@chanco.org or call us at 888-724-2626 with any questions.

Virginia’s Best Camp

Seeking Summer Camp Director

Chanco on the James, voted best summer camp in Virginia by Virginia Living Magazine, is pleased to announce that we are hiring for our 2024 Summer Camp Director. The Summer Camp Director leads a staff of 45 individuals whose primary responsibilities are to supervise campers and introduce children to the love of Jesus Christ through various camp activities. S/he oversees the operation of the summer camp program at Chanco on the James. On-site housing is provided to assist in fulfillment of job duties. Living at camp is required during the season.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree or Associate’s Degree and/or equivalent experience.

Experience

Working knowledge and/or experience as Assistant Director, Program Director, or senior leadership role at a summer camp.
Familiarity with ACA standards and accreditation process

Interested participants should submit a resume and cover letter to Gareth Kalfas at director@chanco.org.

Questions? Call Gareth at 888-7CHANCO (888-724-2626).

New Policies at Chanco

Beginning January 1, 2024, the Chanco Board has made a decision to introduce a small convenience fee on all credit card payments for both camps and retreats. This 3% fee is a modest adjustment that will help us continue to provide you with exceptional service and maintain the high standards that make Chanco a cherished destination.

We understand that change can sometimes be met with questions, and we want to assure you that this decision was made after careful consideration and with your best interests at heart. The convenience fee will directly offset the fees that Chanco incurs when accepting credit card transactions. You may avoid this fee by making your payment by check or cash.

We want to express our gratitude for your continued support, trust, and dedication to the Chanco community. Your participation in our camps and retreats has played a crucial role in shaping the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere that defines Chanco. Thank you for being an integral part of the Chanco family, and we can't wait to create more wonderful memories together in 2024!