Summer Camp Sokil Has a New Director: Alla Galych

Alla GalychFor many years now, the Ukrainian National Federation of Canada has been organizing a children’s summer camp called Camp Sokil on the beautiful shores of Lake Simcoe in Hawkestone, Ontario. The summer camp’s goal is to provide children with interesting and recreational activities, and different workshops during their stay. The staff is comprised of professional teachers with many years of experience working with children.

Alla Galych, is the recently appointed director of this year’s camp Sokil.

The New Pathway had the opportunity to interview Alla Galych by Walter Derzko.


Walter Derzko: Congratulations on your recent appointment! Can you please tell us a little bit about yourself and this year’s camp program?

Alla Galych: Good afternoon. Thank you for having me. I have more than ten years of professional experience working with children. In addition, I hold two Master’s Degrees and a certificate in sports and have many years of work experience in summer camps across Ukraine. My professional career begun at a Canadian-Ukrainian summer camp organized by Help Us Help The Children for Ukrainian orphans. Every year this organization helps more than 500 children from around Ukraine to participate in the camp. I’ve been actively involved with HUHTC as a volunteer and program developer.

I’m planning to use my experience and knowledge to improve this year’s Sokil program. I would like to point out what distinguishes the Sokil camp from other similar summer camps: 1) We organize children’s recreational experience in a unique way, utilizing a fundamentally new approach, which allows children to maintain their independence and be actively involved in the process; 2) Our facilities are modern and up-to-date; 3) We offer sports, creative and health-oriented activities; 4) We provide a safe environment for children; 5) We specialize in creating a unique environment enjoyed by all kids. Because of that children want to return to the camp again every year; 6) We use Professional staff members. We also have volunteers and teachers from Ukraine and Canada; 7) We offer fresh, delicious and nutritious food, prepared by a professional cook; 8) Our camp site features professional equipment for sports and games; 9) We offer classes in Ukrainian traditions, language and culture and 10) Overall, we provide an ideal environment for children so they can enjoy their vacation at Sokil camp.”

Also, I would like to mention that our camp site has undergone some renovation this year. A number of improvements were made, including the installation of a new water purification system. New sports equipment was purchased. The camp site is ready and prepared for the children.

This year’s program “Traveling around the World” was developed for active kids who are eager to learn new things, make friends and learn more about Ukrainian culture and traditions. Our program develops children’s leadership skills and team spirit. We support children’s natural curiosity, motivate their aspirations and help them to deepen their knowledge of themselves and the world around them. In addition, we help them develop an understanding of Ukrainian traditions and history. One of the program’s priorities is to develop children’s reading skills, motivate them to read and learn more. Camp games, activities and field trips are organized in a way that encourages children’s creativity and curiosity. The camp builds up and promotes children’s communication skills. Our summer camp provides children and teens with an opportunity to enjoy fresh air, warm lake, beautiful natural settings, while being engaged in recreational activities. The camp participants will make new friends, acquire new skills and learn a lot. Our friendly staff of teachers and volunteers will ensure your child has a wonderful positive experience at the camp.”

W.D.: Ms Galych, is the registration for the camp open? Are there any vacant spots left?

A.G.: Registration for Camp Sokil is now open, with many participants registering every day.

2013 “Sokil” Camp Schedule

Session Week 1 – Sunday July 7th to Sunday, July 14th

Session Week 2 – Sunday July 14th, to Sunday, July 21st

Session Week 3 – Sunday July 21st, to Saturday, July 27th

For more information, please visit the Sokil web-site at http://unftoronto.com/our-organization/unf-toronto-branch/unf-camp-sokil/childrens-summer-camp.html or call 416-253-6002 extension 1, Ukrainian National Federation – Toronto Branch, 145 Evans Ave. #200.

W.D.: Thank you very much, for visiting us and sharing information about this year’s Camp Sokil program. We wish all Camp Sokil participants a great camping experience, wonderful sunny weather and all the very best!

A.G.: “I’ll be happy to visit you when the camp is over and talk about this year’s program results, camp participants and our future plans.”



PHOTOS:

Alla Galych and Camp Sokil