The state of California, or as our cool imaginary character, Snappy the Squirrel, likes to call it, "The Super-duper Snazz-tastic Snapshot Haven," is a veritable paradise for young photography enthusiasts. From the towering, ancient Redwoods up north to the sun-soaked beaches in the south, from the glitzy Hollywood boulevards to the rugged desert beauty of Death Valley, California is nothing less than a visual smorgasbord. Snappy the Squirrel is a charming, zany character with a bushy tail, a snazzy camera, and an unquenchable passion for photography. He darts around the state, capturing the beauty of California within his tiny, acorn-shaped camera. He’s a bit forgetful, always misplacing his camera and running around in circles trying to find it, almost tripping over his own bushy tail! The kids who partake in the photography activity in California are just as vibrant and eclectic as the state itself. They're a motley crew of shutterbugs, each with a unique vision and a shared love for capturing the world in freeze-frame. As Snappy likes to say, "They’re not just kids, they’re kiddo-kameramen and kamera-kiddettes!" These children tend to see everything as a potential masterpiece, whether it’s the glorious sunset at Santa Monica Pier, the street graffiti in Los Angeles, the stunning vistas of Yosemite, or even Snappy’s comic antics! Just like Snappy, these young photographers are always losing stuff too—the lens caps, the memory cards, even their own sneakers. But they never lose their excitement for creating beautiful images. As long as there's a picture to be captured, these kids (and Snappy!) will be there, cameras at the ready, turning moments into memories, one click at a time.
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Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
To ignite, expand, and transform the lives of Los Angeles’ low-income youth through photography and film education, and use our participatory storytelling practices to amplify the voices of underrepresented communities around the world.