Ribbon Cutting for YMCA Hayo-Went-Ha-Camps

Description

YMCA Hayo-Went-Ha Camps is pleased to announce the official ribbon cutting for its new Administrative Outpost in downtown Elk Rapids. Strategically located between our two camps—Camp Torch Hayo-Went-Ha on Torch Lake in Central Lake and Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha on Arbutus Lake in Traverse City—the Outpost will enhance our ability to serve families, engage alumni, and support the Northern Michigan community.

The public is invited to join us on Friday, December 12 at 3:30 PM to celebrate this new presence in Elk Rapids and meet the Hayo-Went-Ha Camps team.

Located in the heart of the village, the Administrative Outpost will serve as a year-round hub for ideas, engagement, and connection, bringing together camper families, alumni, supporters, and local partners. The space will house administrative, engagement, and philanthropy teams for both camps, fostering collaboration and community outreach.

"We are thrilled to establish a presence in the Elk Rapids community," said YMCA Hayo-Went-Ha Camps CEO John (JC) Carlson. "This new Outpost strengthens our ability to support families, connect with alumni, and deepen partnerships in the region we've called neighbors for more than 120 years."

The ribbon-cutting celebration is open to the public and will include brief remarks, refreshments, and an opportunity to learn more about the mission and programs of Hayo-Went-Ha Camps. Following the ceremony, a small reception with light refreshments will be hosted in our new Outpost office. Guests will also have the chance to meet staff and explore our longstanding commitment to youth development, wilderness adventure, leadership skills, and meaningful, unplugged summer experiences for children from across the country.

Community members, business owners, alumni, and friends are warmly encouraged to stop by, say hello, and meet your new neighbors in downtown Elk Rapids.