Horizons
program for kindergarten-7th grade graduates
Camp Overview
Horizons Day Camp is located on Lake Fairlee with 150 acres of inviting fields, woodlands, and trails. Horizons campers explore a rich array of activities, run by our high-caliber staff—then go home to bed at night—tired and happy. From archery and boating to swimming and drama, campers spend time in each of our 11 departments throughout their session. Participants also enjoy special whole camp activities and unique events that take place throughout the session. Campers spend time in assigned groups which are scheduled to rotate through all departments. They have free choice of activities for the majority of afternoons. Group placements are made with great care, considering factors such as prior camp experience, school, age, and developmental needs.
- Apply to the Horizons 2023 waiting list today! While all sessions are currently full for the summer, we do anticipate some withdrawals in the weeks and months ahead and encourage families to apply to the waiting list. We will be in touch right away if a spot opens up for your child(ren).
- Our youngest campers are Kindergarten graduates.
- Learn more about our Apprentice Program.
2023 Dates & Rates
Welcome to Horizons!
Horizons is a very special place and unique to the region. Operating in a similar fashion to our residential camps, but in a day camp setting, campers experience a huge breadth of programming through our diverse activity departments and frequent special events. There is a strong focus on the lessons learned through challenging ourselves in different ways. We see the experiences we facilitate as opportunities to help campers learn about themselves, building resilience, self-awareness, independence, and personal growth. Horizons Day Camp values relationship-building and chooses to keep technology away from our experience so we can focus on each other while becoming immersed in the program on a beautiful campus. And, we have a bucket full of fun at the same time!
– Stuart Fairbairn, Horizons Program Director
Archery
Archery is set on a range with a three mile valley view. Quality instruction focusing on safety and proper form is combined with fun activities like archery golf, balloon shoots, and informal tournaments with other Aloha Foundation camps.
Arts & Crafts
The Arts & Crafts barn is filled with the creativity, imagination, inspiration, and materials needed to create individual and group projects out of cloth, wood, clay, paint, beads, leather, metal, yarn, and more. The possibilities are endless!
Boating
The Boating department offers campers the opportunity to learn paddling skills. In canoes or kayaks, children exploring the open waters of Lake Fairlee and the small tributary that runs under the Horizons foot bridge.
Drama & Music
In the Lodge, home of our Drama & Music department, campers try out whacky improv and crazy costumes. They create puppet shows and imaginative skits. Those looking for even more theatre might choose to act or work behind the scenes on set and costumes for our end-of-session performances.
Field Games & Court Sports
Horizons’ large field, basketball, tennis and pickleball courts see lots of action between our two sports departments. Alongside some unique Horizons games, campers revel in activities such as Quidditch, dodgeball, tag games, soccer, frisbee, and kickball. We enjoy friendly competition with an emphasis on cooperation and sportsmanship.
Gymnastics
Another popular sport at Horizons is gymnastics in a large, airy studio with a variety of equipment including beams, floor mats, low bars, and spring boards. Campers develop greater coordination and body awareness through a range of skills practice, challenging games and some additional voluntary extras such as dance, stretching and mindfulness.
Nature
Exploring the natural world is an important part of the Horizons experience. Campers take advantage of our forests, wetlands and meadow, building links between the diversity of organisms (including human), and their respective roles in the overall wellbeing of our ecosystems.
Sailing
Horizons’ fleet of sailboats is used by novice sailors under the supervision and instruction of counselors or soloed by campers who have passed their skipper's test. Campers interested in racing enjoy sailing regattas with other camps.
Swimming
At our welcoming waterfront, campers play in the sand and swim in Lake Fairlee. Through small group swimming lessons with our experienced staff and fun free swim games, campers see improvements in skill and comfort.
Tripping
The Tripping department takes campers into the beautiful hills and mountains of Vermont and New Hampshire for wilderness hiking adventures. Older campers also learn camping skills on an overnight trip and venture to our other camps on Lake Morey to challenge themselves and support each other on a high ropes course or climbing tower.
Daily Schedule
Horizons campers are assigned to a camper group of 10-12 children and 2-3 counselors. During Unit Time, two groups combine to form a unit. Each unit has a specific intentional space and additional support staff. Younger groups have two full time counselors to guide and support them during transitions and activity periods. Older groups transition themselves and have assigned staff all other times.
Morning
- 8:30 – 8:40 am – Campers arrive by bus or car
- 8:45 am – Camp begins!
- 8:45 – 9:15 am – Unit Time (Campers learn about the day, connect with friends and counselors, and enjoy down-time activities.)
- 9:15 – 9:40 am – Assembly (singing, stories, sharing, performances, announcements)
- 9:40 – 10:35 am – First activity period (camper groups assigned to 1 of 11 activity departments)
- 10:35 – 11:40 am – Second activity period and Snack – (camper groups assigned to 1 of 11 activity departments)
- 11:40 – 12:30 pm – Third activity period (camper groups assigned to 1 of 11 activity departments)
Afternoon
- 12:30 – 1:00 pm – Unit Time (free time in Units, wash up and table setting)
- 1:00 – 1:45 pm – Lunch
- 1:45 – 2.15 pm – Unit Time (quiet focused activities after lunch)
- 2:20 – 3:05 pm – Fourth activity period (campers choose from a wide variety of activities)
- 3:05 – 3:55 pm – Fifth activity period (campers choose from a wide variety of activities)
- 3:55 – 4:30 pm – Unit Time (free time in Units, prepare for departure)
- 4:30 pm – Time to go home!
Lunch
We believe that eating together is essential to creating community and encouraging authentic interactions. Campers are involved as table helpers, recyclers, and composters. We take pride in the supplier relationships we have established with local growers and farm stands nearby in Vermont and New Hampshire. Our kitchen is nut-free and we can accommodate many medically-dictated dietary requirements but are not equipped to handle all dietary restrictions. We offer vegetarian options, gluten-free options, and dairy-free options, but are not able to guarantee a vegan option. We cannot guarantee there will be no cross-contamination from food ingredients from facilities that also process nuts, dairy, or gluten products.
Arrival and Departure
Bus Transportation
- Campion Rink: bus leaves 8:00 am, returns approximately 5:10 pm
- Marion Cross School: bus leaves at 8:10 am, returns approximately 5:00 pm
- Lyme Elementary School: bus leaves at 8:30 am, returns approximately 4:45 pm
- Thetford Elementary School: bus leaves at 8:25 am, returns approximately 4:45 pm
An adult must remain present at the bus stop until the chaperone releases them. Campers must be signed in and out each day. Campers are expected to follow the bus rules. If the bus is running late, you will be notified by email and/or phone.
Dropoff and Pickup at Camp
Authorized Pickup Person(s)
Special Events
Final Friday Open Houses On the last day of each session, we invite camper families to join us at 3:30 pm for a chance to meet Horizons counselors and enjoy a taste of Horizons. More details will be shared at the start of your camper’s session.
Second Tuesday Overnight In a typical year, Horizons offers older campers the opportunity to join us for an overnight on the 2nd Tuesday of each 2-week session. Due to the risk of COVID spread, we did not offer this option in 2022. We hope to bring back the overnight option in 2023!
Equity and Inclusion
We strive to ensure that each person who participates in our programs feels valued for who they are and what they bring to the community. We aim to create environments where everyone is included, considered, and celebrated. The diverse identities and perspectives people bring to our programs enrich our learning experiences together, and we strive to create a sense of belonging for everyone during their time at the Alohas. We invite you to learn more on our equity and inclusion page.
Registration is now open!
We encourage families to read through the details in the tabs below before applying.
Creating an Account
Applications
Camp Deposit
We hope that every child has the opportunity to attend Horizons regardless of their family’s financial situation. Support is extended to families who demonstrate a wide range of financial needs. When awarding aid, priority is given to returning campers, then their siblings, then new families. Our goal is to make it sustainable for a family to send their children to camp for multiple years. We encourage families to apply early as funding is limited. Email our Associate Director of Enrollment at karen_danforth@alohafoundation.org with any questions.
Most campership aid applicants choose not to pay the camp deposit with their application. Simply complete all sections of the application and, when you get to the “checkout” page, close your browser (your information will be saved!). Then, email Karen to let her know you’ve completed the application. Once your award is finalized, you can set up a payment plan for your portion of the tuition.
Horizons welcomes children who have graduated from grades Kindergarten – 7th grade. Campers are placed in groups based on their grade. When filling out the application, please be sure to list your child’s grade for the current school year (2022/2023).
8th grade graduates may apply to the 1st Year Apprentice Program (either session 2 or 3). 9th grade graduates may apply to the 4-week 2nd Year Apprentice Program.
All families should read and understand the Terms & Conditions before applying. This applies to returning camper families as well.
Camp Readiness and Enrollment Paperwork
Camp Readiness: Participants must be prepared physically, mentally, and emotionally to participate fully in camp. Families should read these terms & conditions thoroughly and review the information on our website prior to enrolling in camp.
Enrollment Paperwork: You agree to complete all camp paperwork accurately, thoroughly, and on time. You agree to inform us if your child is enrolled in an Individualized Education Program or 504 Plan, receives other special social-emotional or behavioral support, or has any physical, mental, or behavioral condition that may impact their camp experience and/or the camp community. You consent to The Foundation contacting you and your child’s service provider(s) and/or medical professional(s) to develop a plan to help your child succeed at camp. You understand that clear and timely communication is essential to setting your child up for success.
Tuition and Refund Policies
Tuition is due March 1. If your tuition is not received by the deadline, your child’s spot and deposit may be forfeited. (Exceptions are made for campership recipients on a pre-approved payment plan.)
Late Payments: A finance charge of 1% per month, and any collection fees incurred, may be added to all payments. Delinquent accounts may result in forfeiture of your child’s spot at camp and any payments made to date.
Withdrawal Policy: Deposits and tuition are non-refundable after the deadlines. No reduction or refund of tuition is made for late arrival, early departure, missed days, withdrawal for emotional or medical reasons, or any other cause.
Tuition Protection Plans: The Aloha Foundation does not offer a tuition protection plan. We strongly encourage families to purchase a tuition protection plan. Please be sure you understand the limits, coverage, and benefits offered prior to purchasing coverage through an insurance company. Plan options vary and exclusions may apply. Tuition protection may be limited to certain emergency situations or expenses and may not cover cancellations for any reason or in a non-emergency.
Assumption of Financial Responsibility: The individual submitting the camp application agrees to assume responsibility for the full tuition and fees. Assumption of financial responsibility extends to third-party (ex-spouse, grandparent, etc.) payment arrangements.
Camp Dismissal: There are occasions when a child must be dismissed from camp due to ill health, disciplinary issues, or because they are not adjusting physically, psychologically, or emotionally. We will notify the parents/guardians to evaluate the situation and plan the best course of action. We reserve the right to dismiss any participant if, in our opinion, it is in the best interest of the camp.
Medical Information
Health Forms: You agree to complete the Health History Form accurately, thoroughly, and on time. You understand that the Aloha Foundation may request additional information regarding your child’s physical and mental health.
Medical Expenses and Treatment: You understand that you are responsible for your child’s medical expenses, including deductibles, and co-pays. You consent to emergency medical treatment for the camper if the Foundation, in its sole discretion determines it to be necessary. In the event of a medical emergency, you consent to The Foundation contacting you and other emergency contacts whom you have provided.
Immunizations: You understand that your child is required to be vaccinated according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) immunization guidelines AND the Vermont Department of Health immunization schedules. This includes COVID-19 vaccination (primary series and boosters, as recommended by the CDC). Religious or philosophical exemptions are not accepted. Medical exemptions are only granted for conditions established by the CDC or the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and only when a Medical Exemption Form has been submitted and approved by our medical team.
Insurance: All participants are required to be covered by a comprehensive health insurance plan.
Dietary Restrictions: You understand that while we provide guidance to children when it comes to allergies, preferences, and food restrictions, they must be able to manage their snacks and meals independently. Our camp kitchens are nut-free and we can accommodate many medically-dictated dietary requirements but are not equipped to handle all dietary restrictions. We offer vegetarian options, dairy-free options, and gluten-free options at every meal, but are not able to guarantee a vegan option. We cannot guarantee there will be no cross-contamination from food ingredients from facilities that process nuts, dairy, or gluten products. Should your child have dietary restrictions, we request that you reach out as early as possible to discuss their needs with our medical team.
Bus Transportation
Bus Transportation: You understand that the Horizons bus service is available on a first-come, first-served basis to families who sign up in advance. This service provides transportation to/from Lebanon/Hanover, Norwich, Lyme, and Thetford for an additional fee ($120 for 2-week sessions and $60 for the 1-week session). Families may sign up through their online accounts. Travel fees will be added to your camper’s statement and are due when tuition is due. Campers are expected to follow the bus rules.
Other Terms & Conditions
You consent to your child participating in all regular Camp activities, both on and off camp grounds, and accept the fact that some of these involve inherent risks. By permitting your child to attend and participate in Camp activities, The Aloha Foundation and its agents, employees, and volunteers are released from any and all claims for damage arising out of injury to your child while participating in any and all activities including, but not limited to: gymnastics, biking, hiking, rock climbing, all waterfront activities, all land-sports activities – including archery, riflery, climb tower, ropes course, team and individual sports, crafts activities and fine arts programs. Such activities may occur on-site or off-site in Vermont or other states.
You consent to the use of photographs or videos of your child to be used in publications, news releases, online, and in other communications related to the mission of The Aloha Foundation.
Health & Safety
All of our practices have been developed to meet or exceed guidelines put forth by the American Camp Association (ACA), the Center for Disease Control (CDC), and Vermont’s Department of Health.
Staff Training
Vaccination Policies
Health Forms
- Health forms, due May 1, will be available in your account after your camper is enrolled. If you have questions, please email Karen Danforth, Associate Director of Enrollment, or Gretchen Cyros, Nursing Supervisor.
- Campers are required to be covered by a comprehensive health insurance plan.
- View our Medications at Camp document for more information and a list of our standing orders.
COVID-19 FAQs
The Aloha Foundation continues to monitor the threat that COVID-19 presents to our camp communities and has taken necessary, reasonable steps to mitigate these concerns. The following Frequently Asked Questions were last updated on 6/9/2022. The FAQS and 2023 COVID-19 vaccination policy may change as the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve.
What are the COVID-19 vaccination requirements for campers in 2022?
- All campers must adhere to the Aloha Foundation’s COVID-19 vaccination policy.
Are there restrictions on activities this year?
- We anticipate a return to normal camp activities, with plenty of choices every day and all departments will be open! Our kitchen is open and will be serving hot lunch and snacks each day. We will have two seatings at lunchtime to ensure social distancing.
When will campers need masks?
- We ask that all campers bring masks with them each day (cloth, surgical, or KN95s are fine). Most of our camp program takes place in an outdoor, open-air setting and we do not anticipate campers wearing masks on a daily basis. However, there may be some situations in which campers are asked to mask (for example, if they are in close proximity indoors for an extended period of time).
What if our camper displays symptoms of COVID-19 at home?
- Campers should not attend camp if they are ill. Campers displaying symptoms of COVID-19 should stay home until they have received two negative rapid tests taken 24 hours apart or a negative PCR test AND their symptoms have improved and they feel well enough to participate in camp. **Symptoms include, but are not limited to: sore throat, headache, cough, congestion, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, sneezing, runny nose.
What if our camper displays symptoms while at camp?
- If a participant shows any symptoms of COVID-19 while at Horizons, they will be taken to the designated isolation zone and assessed by the nurse. If a participant needs to go home, a parent/guardian will need to collect their child as soon as possible. Participants will not be able to travel home on the bus if they have symptoms.
What if our camper has close contact with someone testing positive for COVID-19 within 14 days of camp?
- Participants who have close contact with someone testing positive for COVID-19 may still attend Horizons as long as they have no symptoms. Participants should test five days after exposure.
- Participants who are close contacts who DO have symptoms of COVID-19 may return to Horizons after receiving 2 negative rapid test results within 24 hours. These participants will be required to be masked for 10 days following exposure (defined as the last day you had close contact with someone positive for COVID-19) in accordance with the CDC’s guidance for close contacts.
What if our camper tests positive for COVID-19 before or during their session?
- Participants who test positive for COVID-19 must isolate for 5 days. They may return to the program AFTER Day 5, IF they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours AND symptoms are improved and they feel well. These participants will be required to be masked and eat lunch outside of the dining hall (with supervision) for the next 5 days. Depending on the group’s schedule, alternative programming may be planned for these participants during this 5 day period as we cannot ensure social distancing during swimming and boating activities.
Are visitors allowed on campus? What if my camper needs to arrive late or leave early?
- Visitors are only permitted during designated Open House events or by prior arrangement with the camp director. If your child needs to be dropped off late or picked up early from the program, please contact the Main Office to make arrangements.
Let’s Connect
We offer camps and programs for people of all ages. Let’s talk about you, your child, your family – and discover together which experience you would value most. There are many options and possibilities!