Policy and Guidelines
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Safe. Structured. Supportive.
At Camp Atwater, your child’s safety comes first. For over a century, we’ve provided a trusted environment where young people can grow, explore, and thrive.
Our Safety Promise
We focus on:
Prevention – proactive planning and training
Supervision – constant oversight
Response – immediate, effective action
Every staff member shares responsibility for your child’s safety.
What Families Can Expect
Qualified Staff
Background-checked (CORI/SORI)
Certified in First Aid, CPR, and AED
Trained in youth development and safety
Constant Supervision
Staff supervision at all times
Strong staff-to-camper ratios
Line-of-sight monitoring and regular headcounts
Health & Wellness
24/7 on-site Health Center
Secure medication management
Daily physical and emotional wellness support
Safe Programs & Facilities
Age-appropriate, safety-designed activities
Certified lifeguards and swim instruction
Regular facility inspections and weather monitoring
Positive Camp Culture
Respectful, inclusive environment
Clear expectations for behavior
Immediate response to concerns
Emergency Preparedness
We are ready to respond quickly to any situation, including medical needs, severe weather, fire safety, and missing camper protocols.
Family Communication
We keep families informed, accessible, and engaged—because safety is a partnership.
A Foundation for Growth
At Camp Atwater, children feel safe, supported, and empowered—building confidence, independence, and lifelong memories.
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Since the camp is intended to be a developmental and independent experience for campers, we discourage incoming and outgoing camper calls. This does not apply in case of emergency. If we think a call to or from home will enhance the experience of a camper, we will certainly not hesitate to use this avenue. For calls concerning applications and financial matters, dial: (413) 739-7211 Ext. 102. Leave a voice mail and a staff member will return your call. Non-business calls while camp is in session dial: (508) 867-6916.
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During July and August all camper mail should be sent to Camp Atwater, 20 Shore Road, North Brookfield, MA 01535. Prior to June 28 and after July 25 all mail should be properly addressed to Camp Atwater c/o Urban League of Springfield, Inc., One Federal Street, Building 111-3, Springfield, MA 01105.
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Sundays are designated as Visitors’ Day between the hours of 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. All visitors must register at the campus office. Campers will not be permitted to leave the camp grounds with any visitor(s) without written or telephone approval from a parent or guardian.
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Luggage should be limited as much as possible. Parents are responsible for making arrangements for luggage to and from the camp. Parents should identify specific carriers for luggage, and arrangements must be made and pre-paid prior to delivery or pick-up. Please address luggage to campers c/o Camp Atwater, 20 Shore Road, North Brookfield, Massachusetts 01535 and notify the camp office.
