SOP – Cosby Expeditions
Expeditions Parent Handbook
Revised February 2017
Dear Parents:
This packet contains important information concerning your child’s upcoming Expedition trip
experience. We have attempted to answer routine questions and address other concerns you may
have. We will do everything possible to make your child’s experience memorable and enjoyable. The
partnership between parents/guardians and the camp staff is crucial in providing all of our campers
with a safe, pleasant and rewarding experience. By providing your child with the appropriate
information, you can help us to ensure that your child’s Expedition trip experience includes fun,
values, and learning. Please feel free to contact us if you have any other questions.
Thank you,
Elliott Kasprzak
Expeditions Director
[email protected]
256-268-2007
Contacting Camp Cosby
Phone: 256-268-2007
Address: 2290 Paul Bear Bryant Rd. Alpine, AL 35014
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.campcosby.org
About YMCA Camp Cosby
History
William M. Cosby, a young boy from Tennessee, came to Birmingham in late 1883 to seek his fortune.
He was one of the first members of the “Y” after its organization in 1884. “Loneliness really was the
prime factor in his interest in the organization. For coming to Birmingham without any friends, like
most other young men, he felt the need for a place that offered a pleasant environment”.
Cosby later became president of the Birmingham YMCA and served from 1915 to 1928. The YMCA
grew to be the largest among the Southern YMCA’s in the number of activities, members, and the
amount of property owned.
The original Camp Cosby site, near Pinson, AL was set up as a complete outdoor recreational center in
1922. The camp was named for William M. Cosby because of his contribution and years of service as
president. The present day site was purchased in 1972 from the William Paul “Bear” Bryant Athletic
Camp and was renamed YMCA Camp Cosby.
Since then Cosby has come a long way, we now serve over ten thousand people per year in programs
such as Summer Sleepaway Camp, Outdoor Education, Group Camping, and Family Camp. Cosby
boasts a large base of alumni, staff and campers that are involved in many aspects of camp; some of
our current board members were campers at the old Camp Cosby in Pinson.
SOP – Cosby Expeditions
Mission Statement:
To put Judeo–Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy mind, body and
spirit for all.
The goal for living at camp is to play an active part in a peaceful community. Our camp community
is diverse. While majority of campers come from the Southeast region of the United States, we also
serve children from all over the United States and many international campers. In this peaceful,
diverse community campers find “they really belong” which gives campers a deep sense of personal
self-acceptance.
Self-esteem is fostered through skill development in many new camp activities. Community living
skills are learned by living in a close-knit cabin group with children of their own age.
Safety is our number one priority in all we do at camp. Children are continuously engaged in safe
adventures that bring unmistakable inner feelings of joy.
We are:
 Determined—To devote our full strength and concentrated attention to strengthening
community
 Nurturing—To care for, support and help develop through encouragement
 Genuine—To be honest and open in relationships with others
 Hopeful—To take an optimistic view of future outcomes
 Welcoming—To accept people eagerly, warmly, hospitably and as equal participants
We teach and follow the YMCA’s Values of Honesty, Caring, Respect and Responsibility.
We create an environment that is for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social
Responsibility.
We put the needs of others and the community above our own by “Being 3rd” with our “I am
Third” philosophy.
We are professional and use our Charitable Assumption and Excellence Reflex at all times.
Sleepaway Camp Program and Demographics
YMCA Camp Cosby is home to campers and staff from across the United States and from around the
world. We serve a diverse group of staff and campers from every demographic, socio-economical
background and race. This diverse group of people fosters a community of understanding and
acceptance while encouraging independence, creativity and meaningful friendships.
Cosby’s sleepaway camp program offers many benefits campers each summer. Below are just a few of
those benefits.
SOP – Cosby Expeditions
 DISCONNECTING TO RECONNECT: Cosby campers spend their whole week electronic free.
This process helps them disconnect from technology and reconnect with their imagination,
critical thinking skills and the people around them. Without the distractions of electronic
devices campers connect with their cabin mates quicker and at a deeper level than they
normally would. Through this connection and shared interests, campers form lifelong
friendships and develop lifelong skills.
 FRIENDSHIP: “No one gets me like my camp friends!” The Cosby environment encourages
campers to be themselves allowing them to connect on a deeper level with their cabin
mates and other friends at camp. Counselors foster opportunities for friendship building
through group activities, cabin time and encouraging shared interests among campers.
 INDEPENDENCE AND CONFIDENCE: “My home away from home!” Our campers and staff
feel this way after just one week at Camp Cosby. The reason is because of the supportive
environment that allows our campers safe adventures. While Cosby develops friendships
and sense of community there are also plenty of opportunities to try new activities and
challenge themselves through group and independent experiences. Each night campers sign
up for activities allowing them to make and keep track of their own schedule. Along with
activities, campers are responsible for taking care of their belongings and helping keep the
cabin clean. Trying new things and caring for oneself are great ways to build independence
and confidence.
 CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: At Cosby we practice the YMCA's Four Core Values of Honesty,
Respect, Caring and Responsibility along with our “I am Third” philosophy. Each night in
devotions campers reflect on their day and share what they have learned. As a staff we also
focus on the Seven Cs of Resiliency looking for any opportunity to provide learning and
development for our camper. The Seven Cs of Resiliency are Competence, Confidence,
Connection, Character, Contribution, Coping and Control. The Seven Cs help campers learn
to manage conflict in a healthy way.
Pre-Camp
Eligibility and Physical Fitness
(PT. 6.1)
To be eligible for Expeditions, Campers must be between the ages of 12 and 16 years old and in
reasonable physical health (i.e. able to hike multiple miles safely). Please keep in mind that the
Expedition program, though it offers excellent opportunities for exercise and physical well-being, is not
intended to be an introductory physical fitness program. If you have concerns or questions about your
childs physical abilty and/or whether or not they could safely participate in an Expedition trip, please
feel free to contact the camp office.
Swim Test Requirements for each camper attending an Expedition.
Assessment of Swimming Abilities (PT. 6)

All campers, staff and participants are required to take a swim test before being allowed to
participate in any waterfront activities. The Waterfront Director conducts this test at camp.
The level achieved in the test determines which area(s) a participant can swim in and which
watercraft activities they can participate in. Campers and staff on water based
Expeditions must be Green (deep water) swimmers (no exceptions).

Staff and Camper Swim Test

Red = Non-swimmer
·
Campers become Red Bands when they refuse to enter the water, only
stands in water or does not complete the Green Band swim test.
·
Swim band must be worn to participant in any aquatic activity.
SOP – Cosby Expeditions
·
For their safety Red Band Swimmers may not waterski, wakeboard or
tube. They may Banana Boat as long as a staff member is on the banana
boat with them.

Green = Swimmer (Swim Test)
·
Swim length of pool from 0’ entry to assigned lifeguard (at edge of pool)
using front crawl and or breast stroke
·
Tread water for one minute (60 seconds)
·
Go under water and resurface.
·
Swim band must be worn to participate in any aquatic activity.
·
Green Band Swimmers may participate in all age appropriate water
activities.

During Swim Test the Waterfront Director will assign a staff member to record all campers
achieved swim level and put swim bands on each camper. Counselors will assist with handing
out swim bands and recording achieved level.
o *Staff will complete their swim test during staff training.
Campers must have a signed release from parents.
Before entering the waterfront, campers must go through an orientation that includes all the
rules and boundaries.
Campers will be with buddies at all times while on waterfront. Regular buddy checks will occur
no less frequently than every 15 minutes.
Campers will be trained in emergency procedures on the waterfront.
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Payment of Fees
Deposit due at time of registration. Please ensure that all camp fees are paid prior to check-in to avoid
a $35 late payment penalty.
Release Forms
Any Expedtion trips that require guiding services will require a signed release form for each outfitter
and activity. It is extremely important that you fill out and sign each form fully so that your child can
take part in that activity. Release forms will either be available online to be filled out and brought to
camp or in some cases, to be filled out upon arrival at camp.
Food
Most meals will be cooked over a fire or camp stove. All meals will provide a balanced diet and take
into consideration the high-energy demands of the activities on the trip. Peanut butter, granola bars,
fruit, vegetables, pasta, tuna, rice, lentils, cereals, cheese, fruit juices, jerky, soup and canned meats
are examples of possible meal ingredients. On most trips there will be at least one day that we get
food on the road due to travel (Subway, for example).
Fitness
(PT 6.2 C)
Expedition Trips involve energetic activities every day so please prepare your child physically. Biking,
swimming, or running regularly before the trip will definitely increase your child’s enjoyment of the
activities and the trip as a whole.
SOP – Cosby Expeditions
Cosby Expeditions - Packing List
Each participant will need to bring a few items in order to have the best experience possible on their
trip. If you wish to pack any additional items, please keep in mind that space is limited in our vehicle.
If you have any questions about any of the items listed, please email Elliott at
[email protected].
Clothing Every Participant Should Bring
 1 pair of broken in hiking boots or sturdy shoes
 Sleeping bag
 Pillow
 1 pair of closed toe sneakers that can get wet (most whitewater rafting trips require closed toe
shoes)
 1 pair of sturdy sandals / water shoe to wear around the campsite and in the shower (please no
flip flops)
 Socks for each day
 2 pair of synthetic or wool hiking socks
 1 bandanna
 1 swimsuit
 3 pairs of shorts (synthetic is preferred)
 1 pair of pants (zip-off pants are a good but not mandatory)
 Shirts for each day
 2 synthetic short sleeved shirts (for surfing and rafting)
 1 long sleeved shirt
 1 jacket or fleece for cool evenings
 1 set of rain gear (jacket and pants)
 1 brimmed hat
 1 pair of underwear for each day
 2 1-liter Water bottles or hydration system
 1 small flashlight with 1 extra set of batteries
Toiletry Bag
 1 toothbrush
 1 small toothpaste
 1 small bar of soap
 1 small bottle of shampoo/conditioner
 1 hair brush
 1 beach towel
Equipment Concerns
Cosby Expeditions will provide every participant all of the necessary camping and adventure
equipment (aside from sleeping bags).
Optional Items to Pack
 Camera
 1 book
 Sunscreen
 1 magazine
 1 mix CD of appropriate music to listen to while in the van
 Sunglasses
 Money (bring at your own risk) for souvenirs and snacks on the road. (Cosby souvenirs are
included in camp tuition and are received on the last day of camp).
 Portable music devices and video game systems may be brought for use in the bus ONLY. (bring
at your own risk)
SOP – Cosby Expeditions
Please do not pack:
 Cell Phones (bring another device for camera)
 Weapons
 Anything you do not want to lose.
Arrival & Departure Days
Medical Details
Information Updates
If any information, prescription or medical conditions change after you submit the medical form, please
provide us with written notification on the day of arrival.
Medication
All medication must be given to the Health Center Director for administering. Please make sure that all
medication (prescription and non-prescription) is sent in its original container and properly marked with
the camper’s name. Prescription medication must be written for the child for whom it is intended. Please
send a sufficient supply of medication to ensure that the child will not run out while at camp. While on
trips, the Expeditions Director administers and logs medication.
Inhalers/Epi-pens
If your child needs to have either of these medications with them at all times please send two, so that one
can be kept in the Health Office or with the trip director for back up.
Arrival Day Orientation
On Sunday afternoon an orientation will take place so that your child can meet trip companions and
participate in activities designed to allow campers to set group expectations for the trip. They will discuss
safety regulations, expectations, practices to protect the environment, camping skills and first aid and
emergency procedures.
Transportation
Arrival and Departure by Car
Arrival Time - Sundays, 3:00 PM
Departure Time – Saturday 8:30 AM
If using a GPS, Camp’s Address is 2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road Alpine, AL 35014. We like everyone to be
available to meet and greet new arrivals. Please refer to the notes in the parent handbook on the Cosby
Parents page on the Camp Cosby Website: www.campcosby.org
Please take all medications and forms to the dining hall, then check in for Expeditions at Adventure
Village.
Please Remember:
• Park in designated spaces.
• Give right-of-way to cars arriving in camp.
• Do not pass any vehicles while on camp property--be patient while driving.
If you get delayed for any reason, please call 256-268-2007 to notify us so that we can plan
appropriately and inform your child of your schedule.
Plane
Camp can provide airport pick-ups, with two weeks’ notice for a $50 fee each way. Nearest airports
are Birmingham or Atlanta.
SOP – Cosby Expeditions
Allowing Other Parents to Transport your Child
Many parents elect to carpool--which is fine. However, for safety reasons we need written
authorization from a parent approving that their child leaves camp with another person. This can be
updated on your CampInTouch page. Please note: the person you designate to pick up your child must
bring photo identification with them in order to be able to leave with your child. Thank you for your
understanding of this policy.
If there are any changes in transportation plans, please call as soon as they are known.
Luggage at Departure
When picking up your child, please be sure that they have all of their belongings, including sleeping
bag and laundry.
Tipping
It is against the YMCA policies and our principles of operation to have the staff accept tips of any kind.
Thank you for respecting this policy. If you choose to give money of any kind, we ask that it be a
donation to our Annual Campaign which helps to send kids to camp.
Pets
Thank you for not bringing pets onto camp property.
During the Trip PT
(6.2 A)
Medical Services
Camp will provide healthcare for campers under the direction of the Trip Leader 24 hours a day. Camp
reserves the right to call a physician when necessary. Trip leader will have a list of nearest hospitals
as it pertains to the location of the trip on that particular day. Parents can inquire by calling the Camp
Cosby Business Office at 256-268-2007.
Vehicle Safety Rules for Campers
The following rules are very important for maintaining safety, and we ask that you review them with
your child before his or her departure to camp.
Safety Rules for Bus and Van Travel:

Children will be asked to maintain appropriate behavior and volume levels while on the bus or
in the van.

Children will be asked to remain seated while on the bus or in the van.

Campers are required to wear seat belts while in the van.

In the event of an emergency regarding the pick-up and drop-off of campers, parents will
receive a phone call from the camp with the necessary information regarding their camper.
Phone Calls
Part of the trip experience is being away from home and learning to live independently. In an effort to
avoid homesickness and due to logistical concerns, campers are generally not able to receive or
make calls. Please help us in explaining this to your child prior to their attendance so they
understand the policy and the reasons behind it. Please be assured that we will call you if the need
arises. In case of an emergency, you can contact camp 24-hours a day. Camp will then get in touch
with the trip leader as soon as possible. Due to cell phone reception in some areas of the trip this
may take some time. Thank you for your cooperation.
SOP – Cosby Expeditions
If you would like a report on how your child is doing on the trip, please call the Camp Cosby office on
Wednesday afternoon at which point we will be able to give you specific information on your child.
Campers should NOT have cell phones for any purpose!
Spending Money
Campers can bring a small amount of money on the trip for souvenirs. The Expedition Leaders will
hold all money. $20.00 per week should be sufficient; however your child may bring more at your
discretion. YMCA Camp Cosby is not responsible for money lost or stolen on the trip.
Respect for Facility and Equipment
We expect campers to adhere to our values – by being responsible, caring, honest and respectful.
Tents and equipment are inspected at the end of each session. If damages are found, campers will be
charged accordingly for necessary repairs.
Post Camp Evaluations
You will receive an evaluation to complete following your child’s return from camp. The feedback we
receive is very important to help us plan for future summers. We would appreciate it if you could
take a few minutes to complete and return this form.
Removal from trip for behavioral reasons
In certain situations a camper may need to be removed from a trip for disciplinary reasons in which
case no refund will be issued for the remainder of that session. Our goal is for the parents and camp
to set clear expectations for campers regarding behavior. Should a child choose not to behave in a
responsible, honest, caring and respectful manner or any other manner that is deemed not acceptable
in the camp environment, that child may be sent home.
Lost and Found
We try to ensure that each camper returns home with all of their own (and only their own)
possessions. If you find you are missing something or have something which does not belong to you,
please call the Camp Cosby office with a description of the items. We will try to locate missing articles
for you and, also, forward any items your child may have. If we are able to locate missing items and
return them to you.
Thank you so much for entrusting us to provide your child(ren) with what we hope is an unforgettable
experience full of safe, fun, challenging adventures that will encourage personal growth and instill a
passion for the outdoors. If you have any remaining questions or comments, please do not hesitate to
contact Camp Cosby and we will be happy to help you in any way we can.
Thanks again!
Elliott Kasprzak
Expeditions Director
YMCA Camp Cosby