The Jack Nicol Cub Scout Camp is a special place in the community of Northern Colorado. It is one of the only Cub Scout Camps in the Region and it provides high quality youth programs that educate boys and girls from all over the USA, helping them develop into responsible citizens and leaders. The Camp is a fun, safe and inclusive environment open to anyone in the community to use. Last year, Kathy Nicol, a long time Rotary of Fort Collins member, sadly passed away. The Camp was near and dear to Kathy's heart, having been funded by her father-in-law many years ago. Local Rotary groups have volunteered up at the camp for various service projects over the years. The Camp is nationally accredited and follows SAFE Scouting measures. Part of the SAFE Scouting measures to meet the National Camp Accreditation Program assesses activities for risk and monitors appropriate equipment. In recent years, the Gaga Ball Youth Play Area at Camp Nicol has fallen into disrepair and is no longer a safe place for children to play the game. The Camp is at risk of losing its accreditation if the Gaga Ball area is not made safe. Part of what attracts people to this camp is the variety of safe activities that youth can participate in while learning about the positive ideals and leadership skills that Scouting promotes. The Gaga Ball area has always been a huge hit with campers and part of the attraction of this camp. It helps youth build confidence and promotes healthy competition and respect. We are proposing to replace the dilapidated old Gaga Ball structure with a new one built from materials that will last longer and provide a safe place for campers for years to come. The Volunteer Service Committee of The Rotary Club of Fort Collins (which I Chair) will lead a Service Project to construct the new Gaga Ball area so we can keep this important part of the community as a place that youth can go to learn, have fun and build stronger communities.
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