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January Chanco Chatter


In This Issue:

4 Reasons to VOTE NOW!

Refer a Friend and Win Big!

Lenten Retreat: Parables & Paintings

Alumni Weekend

Thankful for the Hurlburt Foundation's $15,000 Grant

4 Reasons to VOTE NOW!

It's that time again! Help us renew our distinction as Best Summer Camp in Virginia Living Magazine's Best of Virginia 2024. Your support means the world to us, and now, and your votes will secure our place at the top! Here are 4 of 1,000 reasons to VOTE NOW!


  • Chanco fosters community and friendships that last a lifetime; just ask any alumna!
  • Chanco offers an immersive outdoor experience that connects youth with God's creation.
  • Chanco helps youth build confidence, independence and resilience through many activities like zipping through the trees and performing skits for a crowd. 
  • Chanco is fun with traditions that create a sense of nostalgia that keeps kids coming back year after year!


Let's make Camp Chanco the Best Summer Camp of 2024!

Refer a Friend and Win Big!


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 both of you will win big! Your referral wins you $100 of Chanco Bucks to redeem on anything Chanco — discounts on registration costs or bring it to camp for use in the camp store!


How it works:


  • Spread the Word: Tell your friends about the incredible summer experiences awaiting them at Camp Chanco.
  • They Sign Up: Your friend registers for one of Chanco's 2024 Summer Camp Sessions.
  • 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!

Lenten Retreat: Parables & Paintings

March 15–16

$40–$145


Chanco on the James is excited to announce this year’s Lenten Retreat, “Parables & Paintings.” Together, we will look at four different parables which Jesus taught and explore them through the lens of paintings done by James B. Janknegt. These paintings are meant to foster rich conversation, which will be done in both large and small group settings. This program will feature several different activities and are designed for ages 16+. We hope you’ll join us for this time of fellowship and reflection during the Lent Season.


Our retreat will be facilitated by Rev. Keith Emerson, Rector at St. Paul’s Suffolk. We are also thrilled to announce that Rev. Melody Perdue, Associate Rector at Eastern Shore Chapel, will lead our music and worship time.


Although it is not necessary, we recommend ordering Janknegt’s book Lenten Meditations, which features a beautifully printed full-color painting, meditation, and prayer for every day in Lent. Order Lenten Meditations from bcartfarm.com.


This retreat will cost $40 for one day only,

$120 for a shared room and $145 for a single room.

Ages 16+ (all attendees under 18 must attend with a parent/guardian.)

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.


Please contact Marjorie Gay at hospitality@chanco.org

or call us at 888-724-2626 with any questions.

Thankful for the Hurlburt Foundation's

$15,000 Grant


We're thrilled to announce a generous grant of $15,000 from the Hurlburt Foundation to support the expansion of our nature trail here at Chanco on the James. This exciting project aims to enhance our guests' access to the stunning 125 acres of land nestled along the banks of the James River. With its diverse topography encompassing open grassy areas, lush forests, deep ravines, and sandy beaches, our property promises an unforgettable outdoor experience.


Thanks to the collaborative efforts of our property committee and DirtSculpt, a renowned trail building contractor, we're crafting a comprehensive trail system tailored to accommodate guests of all physical abilities. From leisurely nature walks to adventurous mountain biking, birdwatching, and invigorating runs, there's something for everyone to enjoy amidst the beauty of Chanco's natural landscape.


Stay connected with us on social media for regular updates on the trail's development and upcoming opportunities to get involved. Together, let's explore and appreciate the wonders of God's creation at Chanco on the James.

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!

2024 Camp Dates

UPCOMING EVENTS

2024

March 15–16 Lenten Retreat

April 13 Open House

April 25–28 Cursillo #172 Spring Co-Ed Weekend

April 26–28 Spring Work Weekend

May 10–12 Alumni Weekend May

Sep 27–29 Dungeons, Dragons and Discipleship

October 3–6 Cursillo #173 Fall Co-Ed Weekend

October 19–20 Food For The Soul

November 1–3 Fall Work Weekend

December 13–14 Advent Retreat


Learn More & Register at:

chanco.org/events

Chanco on the James

The Camp & Retreat Center of the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia

394 Floods Drive, Spring Grove, VA 23881

Phone: 888-7CHANCO (888-724-2626)

Fax: 757-294-0727

Email: director@chanco.org

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