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Girl Scout Resident Camp to return to Camp Whispering Pines

Girls and their families invited to Camp Open House on April 22

February 2007

Canoeing at CampGirl Scout resident camp, a favorite program of many girls over the years, is returning to Camp Whispering Pines in Independence after a year off following damage from Hurricane Katrina. The platform tents and fire circles, which were completely destroyed have been rebuilt, and a new ropes challenge course and rock climbing wall are being added in time for resident campers to enjoy.

According to Allison Pastor, senior director of program, properties, and training at the Girl Scout Council of Southeast Louisiana, proceeds from last year's cookie sale, and donations from sister Girl Scout troops and other supporters across the country, played a large part in being able to reopen the camp to resident campers this summer.

"Camping is a fundamental part of the Girl Scout program, and frequently the time spent at camp as a child make up a Girl Scout alumnae's fondest memories," said Pastor. "Girl Scout supporters disliked the idea that there's no local resident camp available for our girls."

Pastor encourages parents/guardians of girls new to the resident camp experience to attend Camp Open House at Camp Whispering Pines in Independence on Sunday, April 22, from 1 to 3 p.m. Attending open house provides parents a great opportunity to ask any questions they might have about resident camp, tour the camp's living units, meet some of the camp staff, and learn about the various camp session offerings.

Resident camp is open to girls including non-Girl Scouts, ages 7-17, from June 3 to July 13 with sessions lasting three to seven days and costing from $125 to $250. Session placement begins March 19.

In addition to the new ropes challenge course and rock climbing wall, Camp Whispering Pines' facilities offer many program options including: a stocked 23-acre lake for canoeing, fishing and rowboating; a junior Olympic pool; many hiking trails; sports equipment; a creek and river. The camp is accredited by the American Camp Association which means it undergoes a thorough review process by outside camping professionals every three years, achieving the highest standard in the areas of personnel, program, site administration, and health care.

For directions to the camp or to receive a camp brochure, call the Girl Scout Council of Southeast Louisiana at (504) 733-8220 or 1-800-644-7571. Session information is also available on its website at www.girlscoutssela.org.

Media Contact: Marianne Burdette, Director of Communications
(504) 733-8220, ext. 226 or mburdette@girlscoutssela.org

 

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