Young, carefree times spent in the great outdoors can form some of life’s most precious and enduring memories. Since 1953, the YMCA of Western Ontario has helped contribute to healthy childhoods for kids who have been fortunate enough to spend time at YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth, located on Beausoleil Island in Georgian Bay. Programming at the Camp has allowed children for six decades to learn about nature, increase confidence, develop friendships, enjoy the sunshine, and build outdoor and leadership skills to serve them throughout their lifetimes.
Situated on a rugged island in Georgian Bay, Islands National Park, YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth has played an important role in the lives of thousands of children and youth. The camp is now at a crossroads; all of its buildings date from the 1940s and were not intended for their current use or for a long lifespan.
The camp’s existing buildings must be replaced if the camp is to continue to offer its priceless contributions to the lives of children and families, as it has done for over half a century. The current opportunity to rebuild YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth is a call to action; now is the time for investment.
Take a look at the CQE map.
Read the London Free Press Article about CQE!
Read the YMCA CQE Echo Newsletter
Watch the Spirit of CQE video!
Camp Queen Elizabeth – Fast Facts
• 3.2 M is needed to make the rebuild a reality.
• YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth sits on 8 acres on Beausoleil Island in Georgian Bay National Park, a national natural heritage site.
• The thousands of children and youth who benefit from Y camping annually include campers whom without our financial assistance might never have the opportunity for outdoor recreation.
• Planned improvements to the camp include rebuilding the main complex (including food service and dining area), washrooms and showers, an out-tripping building, all camper and staff cabins and the addition of a Wellness Centre and physician’s quarters.
• All planned improvements to facilities have been deemed necessary for the camp’s continued operation, with all buildings currently at or near the limit of their lifespan.
• The camps current infrastructure, challenges us to offer a quality camping experience to as many children and youth as it has in the past.
Support for Camp Queen Elizabeth
$3.2 million is needed to make the rebuilding a reality.
Gifts to the YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth campaign will ensure children and youth enjoy a headstart in building nature survival, social and leadership skills. Because the camp helps campers through financially assisted spaces, contributions to the campaign also ensure young people will benefit from the outdoor experience regardless of background, belief, ability or financial means. Rebuildingl at YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth will allow the YMCA of Western Ontario to perpetuate its proud tradition of building strong kids, strong families and strong communities, with special focus on the development of our youngest citizens.
View more CQE rebuild photos here:
