THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX: ADVENTURE GUIDES BACKYARD CAMPOUT

The Coronavirus pandemic has resulted in all YMCA programs and events being cancelled to ensure the safety and well being of our community. Our Adventure Guides spring campouts were included on the list of cancelled events, however, that didn’t stop one group from thinking outside the box. Fifteen families from Mohawk Elementary in Richardson decided to create their own Adventure Guides campout right in their own backyards! 

Dads and their kids packed up their tents and traveled to their separate backyards for a night of fun and adventure. Kids were able to set up their tents and hammocks while dads began making the campout feast over a roaring fire (or in some cases the grill). The campout began with a Zoom chat and a big Ya’ at’ eeh from all the Adventure Guides that could be heard across the neighborhood. 

“We had a blast. People checked in from all over,” Brad Moulton, Adventure Guides dad, explained.  

The group was able to stay connected throughout the night with virtual calls to see how everyone’s adventure was going. The backyard campout allowed younger and older siblings as well as all parents join in on the fun! Many families set up backyard picnics, and of course, joined in on the delicious post dinner s’mores.  

“My kids have already informed me we’ll be doing this a few more times ... ha!” Saleem Zafar told the group the next morning. 

We are so grateful for such an amazing Adventure Guides community for still keeping in the campout spirit even during unprecedented times. No matter where our campouts might be, we know our Adventure Guides will have a blast no matter what. Here’s to one awesome backyard campout!