Plast camp in upstate New York hosts special camp for youths over age 15

by Deanna T. Yurchuk

EAST CHATHAM, N.Y. - July 1998 brought many new faces to the Vovcha Tropa Ukrainian Plast Camp at in East Chatham, N.Y., where almost 300 youngsters converged for their traditional summer camping experience.

Among the hustle and bustle of bright-eyed young campers was a group of 20 teenagers who took part in a new program, "Tabir Starshoho Yunatstva," geared toward youths age 15 and older. The goal of this two-week experiment was to teach self-motivation and resourcefulness through survival techniques and outdoor sports.

The campers spent the first day setting up tents, raking leaves, building a camp entrance and otherwise creating a temporary home for themselves. They had to rely on each other, reinforcing many of the 14 tenets of the "Plast Code," like conscientiousness, courteousness, helpfulness, diligence and fairness.

This new addition to Plast's usual summer schedule was the brainchild of Lida Huk and Taras Ferencevych. The camp was headed by the energetic Christine Stawnychy, who along with other instructors led the participants in orienteering exercises, hikes, as well as a CPR certification class.

Having mastered the basics of outdoor life, the campers left their temporary haven in the second week and embarked on a three-day adventure to Saranac Lake, N.Y. They canoed and hiked in the pristine Adirondack region, enjoying the exquisite scenery, as well as the company of their peers.

The highlight of the program and perhaps the ultimate test of trust and cooperation came during the campers' rock-climbing trip to New Paltz, N.Y. With the aid of five professional guides, the campers learned belaying techniques and got the chance to climb and rapel on the rocky terrain of the mountains.

This experimental program was characterized as a definite success by participants. The group became tight-knit, grew physically stronger, and developed a positive and enthusiastic outlook reflecting the Plast spirit of brotherliness.

Organizers plan to expand the program for next summer.

Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, October 18, 1998, No. 42, Vol. LXVI

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