Thanks in part to the generous financial support of Fluor, the YMCA recently concluded its first summer of outdoor and environmental programming at Bates Allen Park in Kendleton, Texas. At a mid summer’s visit of the program known as YMCA Camp Cloud, Fluor Representative Barbara Jones presented the staff and participants of the program with a $5,000 check to help support the costs of running the 10 week program. “Fluor has a commitment to responsible stewardship of the environment and supports programs like YMCA’s Camp Cloud that focus on conservation, restoration and beautification of natural resources and habitats, and environmental education.” stated Barbara Jones, Fluor Community & Public Affairs Manager.
YMCA Camp Cloud, a joint program between the Fort Bend and TW Davis YMCAs, was started in June of this year to provide area youth with the opportunity to enjoy and learn about nature and participate in outdoor activities that they may have never experienced. The program is based at the beautiful 235 acre Fort Bend County Bates Allen Park on the San Bernard River outside of Kendleton, Texas. During the course of the ten week program, almost 500 YMCA Outreach Program youth from urban and rural at-risk areas participated in the free week long day experiences at the park. Led by YMCA Counselors and Texas AgriLife Extension Service Personnel, the youth of the YMCA program enjoyed many outdoor activities, including: archery, canoeing, fishing, hiking, and environmental education. Also, thanks to the partnership from the Fort Bend County Heritage Unlimited Museum, the youth were also treated to a tour of the museum and a historical perspective of the area.
In addition to the financial support from Fluor, the YMCA Camp Cloud program was supported by many other donors and partners. One of the primary funders of the program was the YMCA of Greater Houston’s Camping Services Board. The Camping Services Board provided financial support from their 2012 Partners Campaign fund. “If it weren’t for all the support and partnership of Fort Bend County’s Commissioner Richard Morrison, County Parks & Recreation Department Director Mike Davis, and our many other partners, we would not have been able to provide this wonderful experience to the area youth,” stated Charlie Myer, YMCA Regional Advancement Officer.