The Counselor's Creed
I believe that all children should have an opportunity to live in the out-of-doors; to cook out, sleep out, "pioneer" and "conquer" the wilderness; to catch a toad and find out they don't get warts; to catch, clean, cook and eat a fish; to sit with "pals" around a fire as night closes in, to defy the elements, to paddle a canoe; to vision tomorrow from the top of a hill and hear the sounds and symphony of the woods.
I believe that youth should know more about his natural surroundings and the interrelationship of all living things; see wildlife in its natural habitat; wonder at the marvels of creation and find fun in the simple way of life, live in an atmosphere free of pressures and tensions, climb a tree and build a treehouse, hut, or fort.
I believe a child should know good communication and relationship with an adult who can be idealized, admired and respected; who has the time to be helpful, patient and understanding; who will help him find excellence in skill and confidence through accomplishment; who recognizes him as an individual in a world of conformists; who will grant him the freedom to experiment, to make decisions, for who can resolve big problems without experience in solving little ones?
I believe that happy, carefree days are a heritage of youth, as is the right to worship; and that through normal growth and such association will come lasting faith in one's self, country, and God.
I believe that a camp provides the unique setting, the ideal locale for all these things to be accomplished - and that all are possible in a good camp program - so, I believe in camping!
- Fred Rogers, Past President, American Camping Association
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