One of the tips we share with parents looking to maximize their kids’ experience at Camp Mini-Yo-We is this: bring their friends along! Families who have been with us for a while may have noticed little communities forming among those who return year after year during the same week. These families choose to bring their children to Mini-Yo-We alongside their friends, and the benefits of doing so are immense.
Although our dedicated team puts a lot of effort into ensuring every camper feels welcome and part of the Mini-Yo-We family, we’ve found that those who come with friends enjoy some unique advantages. Here are five reasons why we think Camp is better with friends!
Pre-Summer Excitement
The anticipation between signing up for Camp and arriving on the shores of Mary Lake is awesome for kids and parents alike. We’ve leaned into this anticipation over the years with our Countdown to Camp Calendar, Home Adventure video series and our camper mailings. Many families cherish this period almost as much as the actual time at Camp, as it is filled with fun conversations and planning. Now, imagine multiplying that excitement by sharing it with your children’s friends and their parents. You can discuss what they’re most looking forward to, share camp tips, build anticipation, and bond over the upcoming adventures.
“My 7 year old said ‘I waited for this camp for the whole year’ as I was dropping him off. Both of my boys love the camp and look forward to it and can’t wait to come back. I picked them up with wide smiles and lots of amazing stories.” – Vesna N.
Shared Experiences Build Strong Friendships
At the heart of every lasting friendship is a shared experience. We often become closest to the people with whom we share the most memorable moments. Many Mini-Yo-We alumni recall the friendships formed at Camp as some of the deepest in their lives thanks to the adventurous and unique experiences they shared. Whether it’s soaring down the Skyline together, racing up The Summit or staring up at the stars, Camp provides a wealth of experiences that allow campers the opportunity to forge life-long friends.
“At pickup my daughter immediately started talking about coming back to do Enterprise next year. Camp Mini-Yo-We is such a great place to watch her grow while making great friends and lasting memories.” – Andrew D.
Memories to Cherish Forever
The summers spent together at Mini-Yo-We will create a tapestry of memories that your children will hold onto for years. Long after the summer fades, they’ll look back fondly on their time at Camp. Sharing these memories with friends makes them even more special and enduring. In fact, decades later, our alumni still reunite with their camp friends, reminiscing about the wonderful times they had. This isn’t just a week of summer fun for your kids—it’s an investment in a lifetime of treasured memories.
“This year Camp became a family and friends affair as both their cousins and neighbors attended with them. They really enjoyed the activities, making friends, the themes of the week and just being in nature and celebrating God’s creation.” – Magdalena S.
Someone Who Understands Camp
Have you ever tried to describe an incredible experience, only to find it difficult to capture the magic in words? That’s often the case with a week at Mini-Yo-We. How do kids convey the joy of dancing in the lodge after lunch or the beauty of sunsets over Mary Lake? Having a friend who shared these moments makes it easier to recount and relive the experience. Together, they can find the words and the joy in recounting their adventures.
“Our introverted child who is often few-of-words talked non-stop (for 2.5 straight hours!) on the drive home about all the highlights of Camp! A first time for everything! We are grateful to Mini-Yo-We for genuinely connecting with where our kids are at and for sending home such happy, confident kids.” – Janice H.
Growing Together in Faith
Finally, watching a friend grow spiritually is a remarkable experience. Many children and young people who return to Camp Mini-Yo-We year after year talk about their growing faith in Jesus. It’s inspiring for young people to see their peers deepen their faith, serving as a catalyst for their own spiritual growth. As parents, we all want to surround our children with peers who will encourage them in their faith journey. Mini-Yo-We offers a unique environment where kids can grow together, supporting and inspiring each other along the way.
“One of my son’s favorite memories of Camp was the testimonies of faith shared with him by his leaders and other campers. He told me that he felt convicted in his own life and has plans to take his own next steps.” – Lorna N.
“My son is reading his bible daily, journaling nightly, and calling his accountability partner weekly! Wow, what a transformation. May this discipline keep growing.” – John M.
Camp Mini-Yo-We Referral Program
Our referral program makes it easier than ever to invite new families to Camp Mini-Yo-We! Registered families receive a unique referral code to share with friends who enter it during registration. Each time your referral code is used, you AND your friends save on the cost of Camp. Get all the details on the referral webpage.
