HISTORY OF CAMP KALALLA
In 1948, members of the Ottawa CGIT Committee decided to buy 107 acres of ground on a very beautiful spot on the shores of Long Lake.
An intensive campaign was carried on during the autumn of 1948 and in three months something more than the $10,000 which had been the immediate objective, was raised.
With that, the Board was able to pay for the ground, and make a beginning with the buildings.
By the summer of 1949, the camp site, named Kalalla because it bordered on an old settlement of that name, was ready for occupancy, and in July of that year, the first camp was held.
Preceding the camp, a dedication ceremony was held in June presided over by Mrs. J. R. (Penny) MacGregor, Chairman of the Board and Business Manager.
The dedication ceremony was led by the Rev. R. Purves-Smith of Ottawa.
Truly, that afternoon in June was a memorable one for each and every member of the Board for it symbolized the realization of a long-cherished purpose.
Many changes have taken place since that first camp.
Methods have varied with the years, but ther underlying purpose of religious education, in the broadest sense, has not changed.
The genius of these CGIT camps has been their full, challenging programmes, the life-long friendships that have developed, and the emphasis laid on Christian character building.
Bible study groups, Morning Watch and evening vespers have always been daily events, with interest groups in crafts, dramatic arts, nature study and campcraft, to help the girls experience the fullness of living.
The leadership given has been truly creative.
KALALLA TRADITIONS
- ACCEPTS
- girls as they are, recognizing that every girl is unique.
- CHALLENGES
- girls to develop their leadership skills through participating, learning, planning, and camping.
- ASSISTS
- girls to grow in their faith while learning to Cherish Health, Seek Truth, Know God, and Serve Others.
- SHOWS
- girls how to centre their life in Christ, so that they can become the girls God would have them be.
- LISTENS
- to girls in a supportive way through small group discussions.
- LINKS
- girls with a leader who will be their friend, help them to understand their problems, and share in their dreams.
- ENCOURAGES
- girls to build on their strengths and to be proud of being who they are.
- PROVIDES
- girls with opportunities to discover ways of helping others.
- HELPS
- girls develop a network with others across the country...a lifetime of support to help them live a life with a purpose.
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