YMCA camp offers many of the same benefits of a traditional camp, such as new experiences, skill building, a sense of community, and lasting friendships.  However, the Y’s passionate summer day camp team makes Y camp second to none.  Every day, this energetic summer camp crew works hard to give camp participants an unforgettable summer.  And, behind every great team, is a great leader.

Fearlessly leading Galowich Family YMCA’s summer day camp team, you will find Youth and Family/Sports Director JC Wagner. Wagner, a Joliet native, is excited to head up camp in his first year on the Greater Joliet Area YMCA staff team.

With the start of camp just a few days away, Wagner and his amazing team of summer camp counselors are eager to welcome a new group of campers to sites at the Galowich Family YMCA, the Salvation Army Community Center, and Messiah Lutheran Church. Summer camp will get underway on Monday, June 5.

Q: Can you tell us a little about yourself and what did you do prior to joining the GJAY team?

Wagner: I was born and raised in Joliet. After graduating from Millikin University in 2017, I moved to the northeast region of the country where I had the privilege to serve as a camp and sports director for YMCAs in various cities.

Q: Why do you have a passion for youth development?

Wagner: I believe in my heart that kids are the best part of humanity. I love cultivating an environment where they can build on character traits that make them great, discover their own passions, and hopefully impact the world around them in a more positive way.

Q: What do you think makes YMCA summer day camp a special experience for kids? 

Wagner: YMCA summer camp is a place for kids to make memories! They make friendships, they get to be outdoors, and really experience the world in a way that they can’t in a classroom.

Q: With summer camp right around the corner, what are some of the most exciting activities you have planned?

Wagner: I am excited to start new traditions at the camp like morning flag pole! We will kick start each day by raising the YMCA flag, which will help connect the campers to each other and their Y community. But I think I am most excited for a new field trip that we have planned to Big Time Ninja.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do outside of the Y?

Wagner: When I’m not at work I like to spend time hiking and traveling with my wife and our 2 dogs. I also like cheering on (and getting my heart broken by) the Chicago Bears.

To learn more about YMCA Summer Day Camp, click here.