MetroWest YMCA Wins ACA Character at Camp Grant
HOPKINTON, MA (February 24, 2026) — The MetroWest YMCA has been selected as a recipient of the American Camp Association’s prestigious Character at Camp Grant, strengthening its commitment to youth development, character education, and inclusive summer camp experiences in Framingham, Natick, and Hopkinton.
The grant supports the MetroWest YMCA’s six summer day camps, including programs at its 122-acre Outdoor Center in Hopkinton. These camps provide children with outdoor adventure, creative enrichment, sports, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning in a safe, welcoming environment.
“We develop character through fun camp experiences, emphasizing Kindness, Integrity, and Resilience as kids’ three main superpowers,” said Bartt Pinchuck, Executive Director of the MetroWest YMCA Outdoor Center. “This grant allows us to intentionally deepen that work with both campers and staff.”
Strengthening Character Development in MetroWest Summer Camps
The Character at Camp Grant, a competitive national initiative supported by Lilly Endowment Inc., helps camps advance best practices in youth character development. Through this funding, MetroWest YMCA summer camps will expand:
Daily group circles and guided reflection activities
Hands-on lessons focused on kindness, integrity, and resilience
Collaborative challenges and service projects
Real-life scenario learning that builds confidence and empathy
Campers will practice skills that extend beyond camp—strengthening leadership, relationship-building, and problem-solving abilities that support long-term success.
Investing in Staff Training and Youth Safety
The grant also enhances staff development. YMCA camp counselors already receive training in CPR and First Aid, youth development, child safety and guidance (informed by Praesidium standards), activity planning, and youth mental health programs such as LEAD (Let’s Empower, Advocate, and Do) and CampWell. With this grant, counselors will receive additional support to intentionally transform everyday moments—such as resolving peer conflicts or working through challenges—into meaningful opportunities for growth.
“Summer camp is a powerful setting for learning, connection, and growth,” said President & CEO Rick MacPherson. “When we intentionally nurture character in this environment, young people are better equipped to thrive in school, at home, and in their communities.”
Counselors are selected not only for their experience, but for demonstrated character—modeling respect, responsibility, inclusion, and care in everyday interactions.
Accessible Summer Day Camps in Framingham, Natick, and Hopkinton
The MetroWest YMCA prioritizes access to high-quality summer camp programs. Tuition is priced below the national average cost-per-day cited by Care.com, and financial assistance is available on a sliding scale through support from the Y’s Annual Campaign.
Summer day camp registration is now open for:
Hopkinton Outdoor Center Camp
Camp Clearbrook in Framingham
Ninja Sports Camp in Framingham
OCP Summer Program in Framingham
Stepping Stones Summer Program
Y STEAM Summer Program in Natick
Families can learn more and register at metrowestymca.org/camp.