Camp UniStar Foundation

Report to the MidAmerica Region of the UUA for 2022

In 2022 Camp UniStar returned to almost pre-pandemic operations with full camper weeks, adult and children’s programs, dining inside (and outside), and one youth week for grades 8-12. We hosted 560 campers over the course of the summer. A few of the most popular programs were Birding, The History of the Chippewa Forest, Bread Baking, the Works of bell hooks, and Yoga and Pilates. One first-time camper wrote about their experience, “Got to a stage of total relaxation,” along with “being comfortable just sitting and watching the lake, not thinking I needed to do something.”

We welcomed a new generation of staff—most of whom will be returning for the 2023 season. In addition, we will welcome Pam Berry as our new Camp Director. Pam has been connected to Camp UniStar for 20+ years as a camper and volunteer. She is trained as a Social Worker and is a lifelong advocate for social justice, equity, and belonging for all.

Of course, there is never a shortage of upkeep needed for the cabins and grounds. In 2022 we were able to install new septic risers, add exit signs and emergency egress lighting to the lodge, and refinish the lodge porch floor – not to mention the numerous painting, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical improvements made by dedicated campers and volunteers. This summer we are excited for the donation of a Boston Whaler runabout by David and Claudia Gross. This will be a great boat to replace our recently decommissioned 1956 vintage Whipple boat.

This summer we will once again kick things off with a Helping Hands week from June 10-17. Youth Week will be June 17-24, and all-ages program weeks will run June 24 - August 26. We’ll end our season with a project week to accomplish some larger improvements and repairs.