Annual Appeal Letter

November 18, 2011

John stared intently at the strings of the ukulele. A bead of sweat trickled down his brow, caused either by the heat of the crackling fire at his back or nerves, he wasn’t sure which.  “Coach” Norena whispered “one, two, three…” and John’s memory kicked in.  He and his four cabin mates lifted their picks and strummed the opening notes of “Smoke on the Water.”  Two minutes later John finally looked up and felt a rush of pride as the audience of 107 campers, 60+ volunteers and visitors burst into wild applause.  A week earlier, John was just another face in Mrs. Dixon’s sixth grade class.  Now, on the evening of the first Main Idea campfire, John stood tall, confident, and proud.

Dear Agawam Friend,

The Main Idea and Camp Agawam provide boys with countless experiences like John’s, and these experiences would not be possible without your support.  I’m writing to ask you to contribute to Agawam’s 2012 Annual Appeal.

Consider this:

• In addition to our top-notch activity instruction, Agawam teaches critical lessons in leadership, personal growth, self-esteem, community, decision-making, and environmental stewardship.
• One week at Main Idea costs Agawam roughly $1000 per boy.Tuition and fees for Agawam’s 7-week program now exceed $9000 (a figure in line with or lower than similar camps).
• Economic pressure and rising tuition costs make it increasingly difficult for families to choose to send their boys to camp.
• The Annual Appeal is the backbone of support for both Main Idea and Camp Agawam Camperships, providing well over half of the over $240,000 needed to fund these programs.

Since 1971, Agawam has offered a week of tuition-free camp to Maine boys through our Main Idea program.  In 2011, we welcomed 107 boys, the greatest number yet. Several long-time volunteers remarked that the 2011 Main Idea was “the best ever.”  Strength of community, positive camper/counselor interactions, and infectious Agawam spirit contributed to a remarkable and inspiring week. 

In 2011 we were proud to extend full or partial 7-week Camp Agawam Camperships to 26 boys. With increasing pressure on school budgets and curricula, as well as cuts to after-school programs, there is a growing need for the character and community-focused programming offered at Agawam.  Former Camp Agawam Campership recipient BJ Grondin says it best: “I would be a different person if I didn’t have Agawam as such an instrumental part of my life.” 

I hope that you share my pride, for it is the loyalty of the Agawam community that has allowed us to expand and enhance our Main Idea and Camp Agawam Campership programs.  Please join me in support of Agawam’s 2012 Annual Appeal by making a donation today.  Send us a check using the enclosed envelope, or donate online at www.campagawam.com. 

Thank you in advance for your support.  Your generosity makes an enormous difference in the lives of the boys we serve.  

Sincerely, 

“Ranger” Jim Carroll (’81-’83)

President, Agawam Council