As summer camp season approaches, the Marist Brothers Center at Esopus comes alive with activity long before the first campers arrive. Earlier this month, volunteers, staff, and friends of Esopus gathered for the annual Volunteer Work Weekend and New Counselor Training, helping prepare both the property and community for another summer of Marist ministry in the Hudson Valley.
During Volunteer Work Weekend, participants completed a variety of projects across the campus. A new patio was finished at The Holy Rosary, handrails around the recreation hall and pond were freshly painted, picnic tables beneath the pergolas were repaired, and the retreat house was transitioned from retreat season to camp season. Volunteers also tackled numerous improvement projects throughout the property, ensuring that the grounds are ready to welcome hundreds of campers, retreatants, and guests in the months ahead.
At the same time, first- and second-year counselors gathered for New Counselor Training. Camp directors and senior staff from Kids Camp, Young Adult Camp, Adult Vacation Camp, and Deaf Camp welcomed the new volunteers, helping them understand expectations, develop skills for working with campers, and prepare for the unique needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Training sessions focused on communication, health and safety, camper support, and fostering the welcoming and inclusive environment that has become a hallmark of the Esopus experience.
This year's training took place on the Feast of St. Marcellin Champagnat, a fitting reminder that the ministry of Esopus is rooted in the Marist mission of accompanying young people and serving those on the margins. Throughout the summer, counselors and volunteers will put that mission into practice through presence, hospitality, community, and service.
For generations, the Marist Brothers Center at Esopus has provided opportunities for young people and adults to grow in confidence, faith, friendship, and belonging. The work completed during these preparation weekends may happen behind the scenes, but it helps make possible countless moments of joy, transformation, and connection throughout the summer.
Special thanks to the many volunteers who donated their time and talents, as well as to Coleen Waldron and Crisi Molnar for keeping everyone well fed throughout the weekend and to Ed Kennedy for his leadership, guidance, and supervision of the work projects.
