Walker Rotary hears about Camp Olson

Camp Olson YMCA Executive Director Russell Link was the guest speaker at the July 9 Walker Rotary meeting where he distributed information about the camp — sharing the spirit of the Northwoods. Located near Longville, the camp comprises 1,100 acres including six different lakes. It is an independent, chartered camp and hosts around 1,300 young people each summer. It is open May 1 to Nov. 1 with five full-time staff and 90 seasonal. Camp Olson is a $1.7 million business in the Longville community and spends $400,000 each year locally. There are 60 buildings including a dining hall that holds 250 people. Ninety acres are protected in a forever conservation easement with the Minnesota Land Trust. There is also a new Art Center. Examples of camps are fishing, sailing, crafting and a newly updated activity court that adds to the activity field. There is beginner horseback riding, advanced wrangler camp, hiking, bicycling. etc. Campers last year were from 11 different countries and 29 states. There are 46 counselors in training this year. Camp Olson is celebrating their 70th year, and campers will be part of the celebration as they participate in a special memory — making activity as a community. Their Motto is “Young Leaders = Our Future. Don’t Ever Give Up on Youth!” Link has been director at the camp for 22 years and will be retiring Jan 1. Thanks Russ, for your excellent leadership and to all of the Camp Olson personnel for all you do.