We’re Looking for a Few Good Horses

Posted on March 6, 2021 by DuBois Office — No Comments ↓

As we prepare for Summer Camp, we want to add two or three horses to our herd. We’re hoping someone out there knows of a horse or two that might be a good fit for camp that could be donated or purchased at a reasonable cost.

Here’s what we are looking for:

Reliable kid-safe trail horses – walk, trot and canter with good brakes.
Not too young and not too old – our preference is for horses between 5 and 15 years old.
Large and sturdy – at least 15 hands tall and well built. They will often be carrying children, but they also need to be able to carry large adults.
Healthy, easy keepers – our herd spends much of their time living naturally in our pastures and woods. No horses with special dietary or health needs.
Good temperament – they will be working with kids much of the time and need to be patient and easy-going.
No bad habits – no bucking, rearing or cribbing

If you know a horse that is available and might be a good camp horse, contact Scott Kuether at sekuether21@gmail.com.

Exciting News

Posted on March 4, 2021 by DuBois Office — 1 Comment ↓

The Search Committee and the Executive Committee are pleased to announce the Illinois South Conference has extended a two-year contract with Hayley Elliott for the position of Acting Director of Outdoor Ministry. After an extensive search process which included: Zoom interviews; submissions of candidates’ faith journeys and personal theology; a strategic plan of staffing, programming, finances, and partnerships for the coming year at DuBois Center; checking candidates’ professional references; and an onsite tour of DuBois, the Search Committee unanimously recommended Hayley to serve as the Acting Director of Outdoor Ministry.

Hayley Elliott was born and raised in West Virginia, where love of nature and earth were instilled in her from a young age. She spent most of her formative summers at church camp and has fond memories of learning to swim, making friends, playing games, and learning the importance of faith formation in this setting. As she grew up, she began volunteering at camp and eventually became a camp counselor.

Hayley received a B.S. in Business Administration from Mars Hill University. Her undergraduate capstone project was related to the digital and social marketing of camps and how to reach new audiences and form new partnerships. After completing undergraduate studies, Hayley entered Vanderbilt Divinity School in Nashville, where she completed an MTS (Master of Theological Studies) degree. While in divinity school, Hayley furthered her commitment to youth education by working at a local elementary and middle school as the lead counselor in their afterschool and summer programs.

After graduating from Vanderbilt Divinity School, Hayley and her wife, Rachel, moved to Denver, Colorado so that Rachel could complete a yearlong CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education) residency. During this time, Hayley worked full time as an anti-money laundering analyst while maintaining an additional role as a co-director for youth and children at Sixth Avenue UCC and sharing her gifts at LaForet Conference and Retreat Center, the Rocky Mountain Conference’s camp.

Hayley is very passionate about outdoor ministry within the United Church of Christ and excited about the future of caring for God’s creation and extending God’s extravagant welcome at DuBois Center!

Hayley will begin her new ministry with us on Monday, April 5, 2021. In the meantime, the Outdoor Ministry Team has done a phenomenal job creating staffing-, programming-, and safety-contingency plans to hold programming this summer in some form at DuBois Center with summer staff onsite to welcome children, youth, and adults to experience what makes DuBois Center such a special and sacred space.

The Illinois South Conference sincerely thanks the Search Committee for the time and energy they spent in prayerful and Spirit-led discussions, deliberations, and decisions.

Its members were:

Craig Bielke, Illinois South Conference member at large and leader of Conference-wide youth retreats held at DuBois Center
Hank Henderson, representative of the Personnel Committee of the Conference and member of St. John UCC, Trenton, Illinois
Rachel Kinzinger, representative of the Outdoor Ministry Team of the Conference and former staff member of DuBois Center
Nancy Wagner, current chairperson of the Outdoor Ministry Team of the Conference and member of St. Paul UCC, Lebanon, IL
Dr. Jill Baker, ex-officio member and Moderator of the Illinois South Conference
Rev. Shana Johnson, ex-officio member and Conference Minister of the Illinois South Conference

We can’t wait for you to meet Hayley soon!!

Thank you, Priscilla Self!

Posted on February 11, 2021 by DuBois Office — No Comments ↓

Not only did Priscilla give DuBois Center over 35 years as a dedicated employee, but she continues to care for it now! Illinois South Conference thanks her for preparing the DuBois office for new staff and, hopefully, a summer of campers! Her dedication is inspiring!

Winter Greetings from DuBois Center!

Posted on February 4, 2021 by DuBois Office — No Comments ↓

While the temperatures are cold and Cabin Fever is starting to set in, you can rest assured that we are feverishly planning our summer possibilities with full expectations to be able to serve you this summer!

What does this mean?

We are currently making preliminary provisions to offer in-person summer camps complete with many, if not all, of your favorite activities! After having to take last summer off, we know that many of you are more than eager to get back to your camp!

After all, this is your camp. Since 1965, we have been here for you. Each and every one of us has memories deeply embedded in the fabric that ties DuBois Center together. Even when we weren’t able to be in person last year, we were still here for you.

For 2021, we have up to four, yes four, potential options that offer DuBois Center in different lights — all contingent on the needs of the people, state of the current health situations, and governing authorities.

Plan A

First and foremost, our Plan A includes in-person summer camp options! If all goes to plan, we could begin welcoming summer campers the week of June 6. Exciting, right? Of course, we will have additional plans and protocols in place for enhanced safety measures. While our mission is to see all of our campers again, we need to be sure we can do that safely and effectively.

While we do have Plans B, C, and D on paper, we wanted to share with you now that Plan A is what we are aiming for and Plan A is in person!

Final details will be a bit delayed as we are having to adjust with the ever-changing climate, but please continue to look for emailed updates like this. Our website is also being revamped as we speak to ensure it has the most helpful and up-to-date information as possible. If we ever have to ‘toggle’ our focus from Plan A to anything else, our website will have the details you need.

Check In With Us!

If you are anxiously waiting for a mailed brochure, or at least something brochure-like, you are in luck! While we will be mailing summer promotions and schedules a bit later than normal, you should still receive mailed postcards from us in early spring! These postcards will highlight what we hope to offer and to provide you with something to stick on your fridge to remember us by!

Please follow us online, at www.DuBoisCenter.org for the most current information we have. Also, our Facebook and Instagram feeds are continually going as well. If you need to contact us, our phone number is the same at 618-787-2202, you may also email to DCinfo@DuBoisCenter.org.

Testimonials

Kara G. – Camper/Staff/Volunteer

Ever since I was a child, DuBois Center has felt like a second home to me. I started coming to Fall Festival when I was maybe one or two years old and, once I learned about camp, I couldn’t wait to become a camper! My dad and I started You & Me Camp the first year I was able to go, and I continued to be a DuBois Center Camper every single summer for many years until an injury in early high school sadly kept me from attending camp. I also attended multiple retreats throughout the school year and basically found every excuse I could to make it out to camp, even if it was just for the day.

I came back after high school as a staff member and I loved sharing my love of camp and my love for God with a new generation of campers. Now, I make an effort to volunteer multiple Sundays each summer for registration (come find me – I’m the loud red head!) and am trying to find time in my grown up work schedule to come back as a volunteer counselor.

I have never felt closer to God than when I stand on the dock of Lake DuBois in the early morning when all is still quiet, or when I take a seat in one of our outdoor chapels to worship with friends, or when I’m simply exploring the trails, enjoying God’s Creation. DuBois Center helped shape the person I am today, and I could not be more happy that I still get to call it my ‘second home.’

Lena B. – Parent/Just You & Me Camper

I was so impressed with how friendly everyone was at camp. From the MOMENT we drove in, staff members were greeting us with genuine smiles and waves. No matter where we were, people would wave, and I know this makes the kiddos feel like camp is a happy and safe place. As the parent of a first time camper, it brought me comfort. The counselors started learning names right away and were always engaging the children in conversation. We had the most interaction with Cheeto, Sparkle, and Bullseye, and I am 100% confident in their abilities. They made my child feel safe and welcome.

Camper Pick-Up

Pick-up details:

Half-Week Sessions:

Just You & Me departs at 2:00 pm on Tuesday
Discovery pick-up time is 7:00 pm on Tuesday.
Camp Quest and Rustic Sampler pick-up time is 2:00 pm on Friday.

Full Week Sessions: Pick-up at 2:00 p.m. on Friday.

Please do not arrive early as your child WILL NOT be ready to leave.

When you arrive, a greeter will provide further instructions.

A Pick-Up Authorization Form is required for all youth campers, even those being picked up by a parent.

List ALL individuals who might pick up your camper – include yourself. Then bring the completed form to camp on check-in day. Campers will only be released to a person who is authorized on the form.

The pick-up person will need to present a photo ID, such as a driver’s license, to the camper’s counselor. We cannot release a camper to an adult without authorization on the pick-up form AND a photo ID.

If plans change, and someone not listed on this form must pick up the camper, call the Camp Office at 618.787.2202 and send signed WRITTEN PERMISSION with the person picking up the child.

Lost & Found

Items found after campers depart will be held until Labor Day and will then be donated to a local charitable organization. Please mark your camper’s items clearly- we make efforts to contact campers about items with their names written on them. If you are missing an item, check with DuBois Center by calling 618.787.2202 or by email at dcinfo@DuBoisCenter.org.

After Camp

Your camper will likely be tired after their adventures at camp and may need additional rest after their stay. Try to ensure a lighter schedule for the next day or two after they return home. Some campers will talk your ear off with wild stories the whole way home – some will snooze and snore the second their seat belt is buckled.

Packing for Camp

What to Bring

We recommend bringing older, less expensive clothing and gear. It’s best to LABEL EVERYTHING since found items that are identifiable are easier to return.

To avoid cuts and other injuries to feet and ankles, campers wear sturdy shoes with closed toes at all times, except at the beach or in the cabin and shower areas. Sturdy shoes also make walking and hiking safer and more enjoyable.

Bring extra socks and shoes! In case of rain, spills, sweat, or mud – nothing causes blisters faster than damp dirty socks or wet shoes.

Plan a system to keep things tidy! Consider a dedicated bag for bathhouse supplies or a system for keeping dirty clothes separate from clean clothes. We encourage our campers to keep a tidy cabin to minimize cozy homes for the bugs and critters that live here at DuBois Center.

Detailed packing lists are available by session here:

What NOT to Bring

Prohibited items brought to camp will be collected and returned at the end of the camper’s stay.

No open-toed shoes outside of cabins, waterfront, and showers. Flip flops and slide sandals may be worn as shower/beach shoes only.

Do not bring valuable, breakable, or dangerous items. This includes guns, knives, weapons of any kind, matches, lighters, fireworks, illegal substances, smoking and vaping products, or any items containing alcohol, cannabis, or tobacco.

Do not bring candy, soda, gum, or food. The bugs love it all, and snacks in the cabins encourage critters to nest in suitcases.

Aerosols are not allowed at camp. These can explode and leak in hot weather and are a serious danger around candles and campfires. Please send pump-bottle bug sprays and sunscreens instead.

NO CELL PHONES.

NO CAMERAS. We have designated photographers here at camp to take pictures, including an official photo per family group. Because we open our camp to minors in difficult situations, we cannot permit unofficial photography.

NO SPENDING MONEY. There are no additional fees for activities or snacks, so spending money is not needed. The camp store is only open during check-in.

Thank you for helping us keep camp safe for everyone!

Preparing for Camp

Summer Camp Resources

Health Profiles

Due 2 weeks prior to the start of the camper’s session

A FULLY COMPLETED Health Profile is an absolute requirement for every camper, including adults. The Health Profile does not require a physical exam, but must include current medical information, immunization dates, details about medication and an authorization for treatment. Complete Health Profiles ONLINE! Parent/Guardian signature is required.

Family Share of the Camp Fee

Due 2 weeks prior to the start of the camper’s session

Some churches and organizations pay a portion of the camp fee. The part of the fee to be paid by the family (Family Share) is the amount due a minimum of two weeks prior to the camp session. Early payments are welcome.

Medications

We stock a number of over-the-counter medications, so it is not necessary to send these items. A list of stock medications can be found on the Health Profile.

Be sure to fully complete the medication sections of the Health Profile in detail. ALL medications brought to camp must be in ORIGINAL PACKAGING or PRESCRIPTION CONTAINER. Prescription containers must include the camper’s name, dosage, frequency, and times of administration. All medications, including ibuprofen, vitamins, etc., must be turned in to the Health Care Staff when checking in on the first day of camp. Medications are administered regularly at breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack/bedtime and irregularly as needed.

Do not pre-pull medication or pack it in the camper’s luggage. Put all medications in a gallon-sized zip-lock bag labeled with the camper’s full name.

Exceptions are granted for emergency medications, rescue inhalers, etc under certain circumstances – even if you anticipate this exception to be made for your camper, please arrive prepared to submit medications for inspection at the healthcare check-in station.

Camper Accommodations

If your camper requires special accommodations for a successful camp experience, please contact DuBois Center a minimum of three weeks in advance of the first day of your camper’s session. This allows time for us to strategize together.

We make every effort to serve campers with special needs who are within the scope of our training and staffing capabilities. Because we are a “general” camp, as opposed to a “specialized” camp, we do not have the benefit of extra staff to serve as accommodation specialists or one-on-one chaperones.

Within our cabin and activity groups, we maintain a minimum of one leader per six younger campers, and one leader for each seven or eight older campers. To have a successful summer camp experience at DuBois Center, campers must be able to function within this type of staffing structure.

The sooner we have information about the circumstances, the better able we are to provide appropriate support.

Camper Mail

Campers love to receive mail. Please send cheerful, upbeat notes. Avoid mentioning how much you miss your child. Statements like this can cause worries and amplify some of the challenges of being away at camp. Try rephrasing “we can’t wait for you to come home” into “we’re looking forward to hearing all about your time at camp!” It is tempting to send notes for every day of camp – or more! This can be tough on campers who receive little or no mail. One or two letters through a week is usually more than enough. Camper mail can be cards or letters in a sealed envelope, and a sheet of paper folded in thirds and firmly taped shut is also acceptable. Please address your camper mail clearly with the camper’s name and session name.

Please address your camper mail clearly with the camper’s name AND session name.
Letters may be left at the “Mail Station” while checking in on the first day of camp. You will have the chance to place your letter in a box for delivery at lunchtime on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.

Mail for campers not deposited during check-in may not be delivered. We cannot guarantee delivery of camper mail sent through other methods.

PLEASE – NO CARE PACKAGES!

Packages from home are intended to be symbols of love. For DuBois Center they create problems. Eating and storing food in the cabins and cottages attracts insects and critters. In addition, campers not receiving such treats can feel left out. Please send letters instead. If packages are sent, in most cases, they will be held until the end of the session and sent home with the camper. Do not include food, candy, money, or glitter in any camper mail.

LETTERS HOME

Don’t be alarmed if letters home are brief and sporadic or don’t arrive at all – campers are busy while at camp, and it is unlikely a letter mailed during their week at camp will make it to you before they are back home. You are more likely to receive mail from your camper if you pack pre-addressed, stamped postcards or envelopes.

Many campers feel more comfortable writing, drawing or pasting scraps into a journal or notebook rather than feeling pressured during rest/bedtime to complete and submit an entire letter or postcard. Sending along a small blank notebook with a marker set and a roll of scotch tape can result in a charming and unique camp memento you can review together – and add to through the years!

Registering for Camp

Register Online!

The quickest and easiest way to sign up for camp is to Register Online. Just follow the link to Campwise, our registration website, and follow the directions. Online registration requires online payment.

Having trouble?

Our online registration service is the simplest way to get your camper registered- but if you are encountering problems, you can contact our registrar office by email or call 618.357.1809. A debit/credit card is required for payments over the phone.

Things to Consider as you Register

Cabin Buddies

TWO campers may request to bunk together. However, they must be within one year of age AND both request each other on their Camp Registration Forms. All written requests are considered, but not guaranteed.

It’s fun to share a week of camp with old friends, and it may be easier for first-time campers to come with a buddy. Campers are encouraged to recruit their friends (and receive a discount for their efforts).

Camp provides great opportunities to make new friends and build new relationships. It is our responsibility to assign campers in the way we feel is in the best interest of the whole camp family.

Health or Dietary Issues

If your camper has significant health or dietary issues, contact our office via email before registering AND describe the issues on the registration form. We partner with parents to accommodate special needs whenever possible.

Discounts, Scholarships and Assistance

Early Bird Discounts

Register by February 14 to save $40 on full-week sessions and $20 on part-week sessions. Non-refundable deposit of $50 confirms your camp registration.

UCC Church Scholarships!

Many United Church of Christ congregations in the Illinois South Conference offer to pay a portion of the camp fee for their members. Check with your church!

Registration Confirmations

We will email your confirmation within 10 days of receiving your registration and payment.

Payment Plan

If you register online, it’s easy to make payments to your account at your convenience. If you register by mail and would like to set up a payment plan, contact the Registrar at 618.357.1809 for assistance.

Cancellations

The $50 deposit is non-refundable.

If a registration is canceled at least 30 days in advance of the start of the camp session, the full camp fee (minus the $50 deposit) will be refunded. When notification is received between 14 and 29 days, up to 75% of the total camp fee will be refunded. When less than 14 days’ notice is received, no refund is given.

In cases of sudden illness, accident, or emergency, we can transfer your registration to another session if space is available. If all sessions are full, then a full refund is given.

The DuBois Experience

In these tech-centered times, it is increasingly important for kids to unplug, get outside, play hard, get a little dirty, and connect face-to-face. In addition to heaps of classic fun, activities that help campers build relationships and grow in their faith are woven throughout each day – whether exploring the creek, gazing at the stars or cooking over the campfire.

Cabin groups of 5-8 campers combine to form DuBois family groups. These family groups experience much of camp life together. On the first night, these campers and their leaders discuss and choose many of their adventures for the week. In addition to family group activities, older campers also have “choice times” when they select from a variety of options.

We offer a progression of activities based on the age group, program focus and the skill level of our campers. There are new challenges and experiences for the youngest of campers, as well as for older youth.

Lodging

DuBois Center has three distinct lodging areas for summer campers:

Main Camp: Four cottages near the dining hall in Oak Lodge. Each cottage has a common room between two sleeping rooms. Each sleeping room has bunk beds for 8 and a bathroom with a shower.

Rustic Village: Eight cabins are split between two sites with one centrally located shower house. Cabins have screened windows and doors, a ceiling fan, electricity, and sleep 8 in bunk beds.

Hickory Lodge: A lodge in main camp near the dining hall in Oak Lodge. Hickory has hotel-style sleeping rooms, bathrooms off the hallways, and a meeting/activity room.

Meals & Dietary Concerns

Most meals are prepared and served in Oak Lodge. Some sessions do have cookouts or special meals in different areas of camp as part of their program. Campers are offered three hearty meals a day, plus snacks. Fresh fruits and veggies are served daily. There is plenty of food and usually enough options for even the pickiest eater. Please do not send any extra food with your camper UNLESS arrangements have been made in advance with the Program Office.

Dietary Restrictions: We are able to accommodate SOME special dietary needs. Please contact the Program Office at 618.787.2202 or email dcinfo@DuBoisCenter.org at least three weeks in advance of the camper’s arrival, to discuss special dietary needs.

So Much to Explore!

Horseback Riding • Crafts Archery • 9-Square-in-the-Air • Ga-ga • Goofy Songs • Nature Discoveries • Campfires • Night Hikes • Faith Chats • Cook-outs • Kayaking • Water Games • Shelter Building • Swimming • Beach Fun • Water Mat • Fishing • Creek Walks • Crazy Skits • Camp-Style Worship • Team-Building Activities • B.L.A.S.T. – Bible Learning And Spirit Time

Horses

No doubt about it, our horses are the most popular kids in camp. Spending time with “the ponies” is a favorite activity for many. Campers receive instruction in basic barn etiquette and how to safely lead, mount, dismount and ride a horse. Our riding instruction is based on safety and recreation. It is not intended as instruction for horse shows or for competition.

Weather permitting, part-week campers have the option of riding once during their two- or three-day stay at camp. Campers attending week-long sessions have the option of riding twice during their stay. The first ride consists of time in the arena to get comfortable with the horse and practice basic skills. A short trail ride may also be included – if time permits. The second ride is usually a longer trail ride.

Rides are canceled whenever there are heavy rains, storms, lightning or the heat index reaches 100° degrees. If rides are canceled, we do our best to reschedule whenever possible.

Horse Campers spend significantly more time around the barn working on grooming and horse care, as well as riding daily. They also help feed the horses in the morning and muck out the stalls at the end of the day.

What if the camper does not want to ride? At DuBois Center, we believe in “challenge by choice” – the camper’s choice. While no one is forced to participate in any activity, each is encouraged to try at least a first step. In the case of the equestrian program, this might mean petting a horse with a leader nearby. SUCCESS! Often small steps lead to a child being more willing to try riding.

Alternatives for those choosing not to ride include: spending time with a small group and a leader and cheering on their family group; working on a craft or other horse-related project; or perhaps joining the riding staff in the arena and “assisting” with instruction. For those with significant allergies, check with your doctor regarding appropriate options.

SAFETY FIRST! Our summer barn staff have significant training and experience working with horses and young people. They know our trails and our horses. The safety of your child is their first priority.

Helmets, specifically designed for horseback riding, are required for all riders, as are long pants that are not slick (preferably jeans) and proper footwear, including SOCKS. DuBois Center supplies helmets and boots, and we have some pants available; however, campers are encouraged to bring their own jeans. Also, pack one or two pairs of taller/crew-height (above the ankle) socks since boots can rub on bare ankles. Horse Campers should bring extra pairs of jeans and long socks because theirs may get quite dirty and smelly.

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