Greek Village Immersion Camp Being Offered at Saint Nicholas Ranch

March 3, 2010

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is pleased to announce its first annual Greek Immersion Camp, "The Greek Village", which will be held June 12 - 19, 2010 at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA. This program is open to all youth ages 6 - 11. Activities will be divided based on age-appropriateness to facilitate learning and enhance their educational experience.

"The establishment of a Greek Village Immersion Camp has been a priority for the Metropolis, as it highlights the importance of keeping our children closely connected to their ancestral roots. Through the preservation of our language, customs, traditions and faith, children's lives will be enriched, and they will have the opportunity to form friendships with other youth from throughout the Metropolis", stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos. "Through the exceptional generosity of Dr. and Mrs James Kallins and Dr. and Mrs. George Kallins and their families, this camp will finally be a reality for which the Metropolis is very grateful. Saint Nicholas Ranch offers a beautiful setting for children to experience a fun, loving and nurturing environment while being enriched through diverse educational and recreational activities."

Under the guidance and direction of the Metropolis Committee on Greek Education and Culture, The Greek Village will be led by a team of highly-qualified instructors, selected from various Greek language schools in the Metropolis as well as teachers appointed by the Greek Ministry of Education. Campers will be immersed in the Greek language and village life through a variety of classes and activities including language and history, traditions, cooking, music, theatre, arts and crafts, and more. The planning committee is comprised of Father John Asimacopoulos, Theodora Kounalakis, Becky Yerocostas, Kleon Skourtis, Evangelia Koutsou, Barbara Matty, Kostas Amberiadis, George Maroutsos, Marina Moustakas, George Vassilakis, and Despina Vassiliadou.

The location of Saint Nicholas Ranch is ideal as its 230 acres, nestled in the foothills of Sequoia National Park, are reminiscent of a beautiful Greek village. With a historic barn, hiking trails, apple orchards and a lake, campers will experience the fullness of the outdoors which will further enhance their learning experience. The Monastery of the Theotokos the Life Giving Spring is adjacent to Saint Nicholas Ranch, affording campers the opportunity to participate in worship services, and also witness monastic life.

For additional information and registration forms, please refer to this information and registration packet (PDF). Special discounts are available for families sending more than one child, or for parents who wish to accompany their child to camp. Enrollment is limited so reserve your space today!