The words "summer camp" bring to mind childhood memories of swimming in the lake, crafty outdoor afternoons, and sweet summery treats that keep tiny campers happy. However, YMCA Camp Alexander leaders in Wisconsin Rapids are making traditional junk foods like pizza and mac n' cheese a thing of the past.
It's out with the ice-cream and in with the Baked Potato Lays during snack time at this camp. Co-camp Director Jessica Planer says feeding the kids over-processed foods was a bad habit they're out to break. And that change is being spear-headed by Waterfront Director Casey Wick.
Wick will be a Senior at University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire where she's studying health promotion. She says she wants to continue working at these types of camps when she graduates, so it makes sense that she's so determined to help improve Camp Alexander's menu.
Almost 400 kids will benefit from the change where fruit salads, fresh vegetables, and humus dipped snacks are gobbled up as replacements to the old soda, candy, and Pop- Tart quick fixes.
Perhaps the most impressive part of it all is the success implementing healthy eating has had at the camp. The kids all attested to the deliciousness of the fresh snack foods and were chomping away during their activities.
Camp Alexander still has openings for the summer. You can call 715-887-3240 or visit www.swcymca.org for more information.
