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Community Corner

Camp Massasoit Hosts Carnival Fundraiser

The Cranston YMCA raised money to help children attend camp next summer.

"Memories that Last a Lifetime" is 's motto — and to provide more memories for children, the camp held its annual carnival fund raiser on July 14.

"One hundred percent of the funds raised go to camp scholarships for children to go to Massasoit next year," said Rob Houston, executive director of the Cranston YMCA, which runs the camp. "We do not turn anyone away from attending the camp."

Houston, who started as a camp counselor 15 years ago and has been director for the past 4, explained that last year's event raised $600, and added he's hoping to meet or exceed that amount this summer.

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In the spirit of keeping the event affordable, visitors to the fundraiser purchased tickets for 25 cents each, which could be exchanged for food, canoe rides, face painting, competing in a dance contest, and hurling a few pitches at the ever-popular "Dunk the Director" dunk tank.

The camp, located on Oak Reservoir in Johnston, started in the early 1950s as an all-boys camp; today, boys and girls come from all over the state to make their summer days memorable.

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"Between 150 and 160 children attend the camp," said Houston. "They can come week by week, and there are 11 weeks this summer."

Houston explained Massasoit is accredited by the American Camping Association, which means it meets or exceeds all standards set by the national group. The YMCA staff is state-certified in first aid and CPR, and also in AED (Automated External Defibrillator).

"Two staffers are former campers," said Houston. "All the staff is very dedicated — the best in the association."

Check out the accompanying photos and video from the Camp Massasoit fundraiser.

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