at the end of the summer, something changed. I arrived home with a newfound happiness. I became a Unit Head and loved every minute of it (well...just about ;) The lessons, the memories, the feelings, and the relationships that I made are unexplainable. I don't think an hour went by with either of you that i didn't enjoy...being in the presence of two people such as yourselves has changed my life. You guys believed in me...and for that - I am thankful! We formed a relationship together that I felt I could be so honest with the two of you and I wouldn't have had it any other way! every single one of these days has shaped who I am today. I can't even imagine a year without Camp in it, but I am going to try knowing already it wont be the same!!
Head staff – last summer

I find it incredibly strange that even after only two months at camp it has become something huge within my life- two months  is not long at all but I have become so attached and have so many fond memories . I can understand how the kids  want to come back year after year, it really is  a magical palce.   Summer 2010 was easily my best summer ever . I just want to say thank you for everything you have done.  I have learned so much about myself and about look after and teaching kids. I feel acmp makes you into such a good person, no one judges you so you can grow up being exactly who you want to be.
Senior counsellor from England - Jamie

Thank you so much for another incredible summer. I love it here so much and can't imagine what my summers will be like without it. I meant every word that I said the other night- you have created a truly special place here and I will definitely be back some day
Aoife- Activity head

My summers at camp have taught me invaluable lessons that I use everyday and has brought me friendships different from any others. I got to spend my summers in a community full of people that loved and cared about me…it helped me become independent and self –sufficient. The bond we share at Manitou with my friends is much closer than any other friends I have and I know that the environment is the reason for that.
Senior girl staff member Jessie

Thanks for making this the best summer ever. I have loved every single minute of working and being here. It's a truly magical place and that's cause of you guys so please take a moment to reflect on what you have all done and are doing and give yourselves a big pat on the back.
First year senior staff, Kyle from England.

I just wanted to thank you for everything this summer. I had no idea I would love Manitou to the extent that I do. I truly admire the two of you for all the kindess and effort you put towards everyone, especially the staff and how amazing of a camp you run. This summer has been my best on staff ever and I feel like even though it's my first year I have been at Manitou for years – I felt so welcomed from the start and I have made friends with that I will keep in touch for a very long time. I am counting down the days til next summer.
First year senior Staff Stephanie from U.S.A.

Another amazing summer has come to an end and I still come home finding it hard to adjust back to city life and I wish I was back at Manitou. I wanted to thank you for another amazing summer- I took on new responsibilities and found a leader in myself I didn't know was so strong , the words you spoke about me when receiving my candle as well as the ten year speech brought me to tears and makes me feel so special.
Long time Manitou staff of ten years

I just got home and had to tell you what an amazing time I had this year. It was truly a pleasure to be back as part of the Manitou family. I made so many great friendships and connected with the campers as if I had known them all my life.
Nick, activity head.

Before I left I wasn't quite sure what I had gotten myself into and really didn't know how I would feel about it but it didn't take long for me to realize that coming to Manitou was one of the smartest decisions I could have ever made for myself. There was never a morning when I woke up and wasn't happy to be where I was- - I enjoyed every aspect of camp and learned so much about myself as well as how much as a staff member I could influence and affect the lives of campers. I want to express I extreme thanks and gratitude for the opportunity this summer.
New staff member Kasandra

Thank you so much for the summer- I am really impressed by it all and part me wishes that I had gone to summer camp when I was growing up
First time staff member Matt

This summer really has been one of the most rewarding summers of my life. It has been an honour working with all of you. You have created such a great place where people can just let loose and be themselves. By being here I have learned so much about myself and what I want to become. I love seeing the energy from the kids and watching them grow., This summer will always have a special place in my heart.
First year staff member

Since the very first year you both took over Manitou it has been clear that you support your staff. Whether it was providing free staff snack… the way you dealt with the tragedy of a losing a staff member when she was in a car accident on her day off or how you just take the time to let us be consoled or just appreciating us everyone knows that on staff the directors have your back. You spend so much time saying thank you to your staff for basically doing the job they were hired to do – so now its my turn- Thank you.
Ten year staff member

I wanted to thank you for being so patient- as a director its you set the mood and tone for many of us. I can become flustered and get caught up in the drama but when I see you doing such a fine job and being so approachable supportive and patient it reminds me to be the same.
Returning staff member

I just would like to thank you for everything this summer. Never in my life have I found a place so special and so perfect as Manitou. I have never met so many amazing people who have forever changed my life. I know the people here are some of the best and Manitou has helped me break out of my shell and take risks. I have learned so much in just a few short weeks and I only wish I had found this camp sooner….
First year staff member

I just wanted to take a minute and thank you for another great summer. I am sure you get 1000's of these messages but I just wanted to let you know how great of an experience I had. I don't think I had a single complaint this summer and I am still so camp sick …
Nine year staff member

I wanted to let you know how special Camp Manitou has become to me over these past years. I know that in camp years I am only a baby but I feel truly at home at camp. I feel blessed to have found a place that is so welcoming , so diverse and so understanding. Camp has changed me for the better and for that I thank you. If only everyone had the opportunity to experience a place where you can be yourself while learning about other cultures in such a positive manner.
Four year staff member

Camp has transformed me, and is still transforming me. Every day I have a new experience or gain a new perspective because f something that happened at camp. That's the beauty of camp , we can always grow. This place has lead me to make some of my best friends in the world and to do some amazing things,. It has given me many lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life but above anything else its fun.
Ten year staff member

Hey Mark and Jeff,
I would just like to take this opportunity to thank you guys for the past two summers having me at camp. I know you guys probably hear this so much (from everyone), but these were the two greatest summers of my life!!! Nothing can compare. I've met so many great people, had so many unforgettable experiences and many memories that I will cherish forever. I've connected with many, many awesome campers and staff, it's just amazing. At camp, you'll meet the greatest people you'll ever meet in your life. I have met the greatest people I have ever met (including the two of you :D). It was never a job. It was simply the most fun I've ever had as a 20 year old. It's just not the same to think that I'm not coming back this summer.
- senior counsellor; Stanley

I am so lucky to have a place to go to every summer to have fun and enjoy myself. However, it goes beyond that: over my 10 years I have consistently been provided with an opportunity to learn, grow, and develop. Camp has helped forge me as a person, and for that I am so appreciative. You guys hear it all the time from everyone but I'm really grateful for the opportunity that Manitou provides me. I would also like to thank you guys for the respect and care you've always extended to me!
- 2nd year staff member age 18, 2008

Dear Mark and Jeff,
I wish to thank you once again for giving me the opportunity to work at Manitou this summer. It was an experience that I both enjoyed and am grateful to have had. The energy and enthusiasm brought out from people at Manitou sets a great life example for campers and staff, and the influence it has had can be seen on day one in all of the returning campers and staff, and the influence it has had can be seen on day one in all of the returning campers and staff. You are both in a truly fortunate position to be at the helm of Camp Manitou.
- 1st year staff member age 24, 2008.

Dear Mark and Jeff,
I've essentially spent my childhood growing up at Manitou and I can't thank you enough for all the experiences you have given me. You've always accommodated my needs, given me the chance to grow, and most importantly taken care of me! I hope I've been able to give my campers the experiences that I was fortunate enough to have and I can't wait for them to pass that on to their campers over the next few years! Thank you for providing an environment in which I was able to form these relationships and thank you for the time and effort you have committed to me personally.
- 4th year staff member age 20, 2008.

When I was thinking about why I love Manitou, the first thing that came to mind was all of the great memories I have with a group of friends that I've grown up with here at camp, like going on sail trips, to intercamp hockey games, and even just sitting around the cabin talking. Although a lot of those friends aren't at camp anymore, the friendships we made are still just as strong!
- Senior Counsellor 2007

It's hard to believe that you have watched me grow for almost half my life. You have been such an inspiration to me, following your dreams to open a camp that provides happiness to so many people. You've seen me change from a young girl into (hopefully) someone you can be proud to call a member of the Manitou family. Thanks for the memories.
Katie.
- Junior Counsellor 2007

I also would like to thank you both once again for an unbelievable 10 years and a very special summer. Manitou means a lot to me, it always has and it always will. I have made some of my best memories at your camp and they would not have been possible without you guys. The 10 year ceremony was so beautiful and I thank you for putting in the time to do such a nice thing for us. Over the years, I have literally watched the camp grow and transform into so much more than just a summer camp. It's not only the place where we go to have fun, meet new people and try new things. It is a place where we learn valuable life lessons and it is a place that changes you as a person. You have both created such a special place and feel so lucky to have had the chance to spend so many summers at a place I love most. Thanks everything; for my best summers, your non-stop devotion and hard work and for creating such a great summer camp. Love always, Erica
- Senior Counsellor 2007

Hi Mark and Jeff
It's Drew from this past summer. I just wanted to thank you guys for this summer. I had a blast and it was a great experience You guys really know how to run a camp well. I don't know if I'll be back again, but I'll definitely recommend working at camp to anyone who doesn't know what to do next summer. Good luck with summer 2008!
- Senior Counsellor 2007

Mark thank you, for the best summer of my entire life. Whether it was world games or just hanging with my cabin I had an amazing time. This camp has changed my forever! I have learned so much in these past two months and I am so happy to be going to the best camp in the world. Thanks for an amazing summer!
- Junior Counsellor 2007

These kids are a perfect reflection of the camp culture you try to build. Thank you for trusting me with the CITs for another summer! Being here with them is only rivaled by being here with you and the directors for what makes me happiest in life. Thanks for a great summer.
- Senior Staff Member 2007

Mark and Jeff,
I have never experienced the love I found at your camp anywhere else in the world. You truly have a beautiful community here and I feel so lucky to have been welcomed into your family. Thank you so much for such a brilliant and memorable summer. You should be proud of what you have here at Manitou.
Love always, Sarah.
- Junior Counsellor 2007

This summer is not something that I will soon forget! The camp had the most amazing dynamic and I've never felt ...Manitou makes me feel human and young in world where I feel we're forced to grow up too fast, as cliché and corny as that may sound.
~ Julia, Head Staff and Counsellor

Summer 2006 helped me figure out who I am as a person. Without Manitou I would be a completely different person.
~ Junior counsellor 2006

I was amazed at how I thrive off of the enthusiasm for camp and live of my campers. Each day they created new memories for me which I will never forget.
~ Junior counsellor 2006

Camp this summer was nothing short of amazing and as I was not supposed to be at camp this year yet every great memory was a small miracle.
~ Junior staff 2006

There isn't just one memory I could describe that could explain why camp was so special to me because it is the combination of the whole camp atmosphere, that will bring me back year.
~ Senior counsellor 2006

I loved camp and want to thank you because I could experience many different cultures in a beautiful environment,
~ Senior counsellor 2006

I think the little things at camp end up being the most special memories from hyper cabin activities to late night stargazing. I've learned that the company you keep is what makes summer the best time of year ….
~ Senior girl counsellor 2006

The main reason I came back to camp is because for me it's the perfect place. Everyone is so nice and supportive and I've realized I'll never run out of new friends to meet as long as I'm here. Most importantly camp helped me recognize how much confidence and determination I really had. Actually the thing about camp is whatever idea you have its totally possible to fulfill it!

Camp was more then I had ever imagined it would be. Until I got there and experienced the magic of Camp Manitou myself I could not believe just how incredible it truly is up there. Form the moment I arrived I felt welcomed and loved. The staff you have is so talented , diverse and interesting group of individuals who wind up blending together to make something magical happen up north….I have left camp with more confidence in my abilities and trust in myself and for that I will always love my time spent at camp. The fact that staff can get as much out of camp as the campers is what makes Manitou what it is…Mark and Jeff it is truly clear to all how much you value your staff, you treat us all with respect and make sure our summers are filled with as many experiences and opportunities as the campers.
~ First year senior staff

I can not imagine how proud you both must feel by your continuing success and accomplishments …you not only achieve making camp the magical place that it is but you have succeeded by touching the lives of so many around you including myself. Enough thanks can not be given to both of you for changing my life two years in a row. It's amazing to work at such a special place where your bosses hug you and truly care about you. You both have such a clear and strong understanding of what's important in life and you can see that by the way you speak , the gentle actions you make , your empathetic skills and how you can always find the time to be there if wee need you.
~ Second year senior staff

I want to yet again thank you and your family for the most amazing summer of my life. Everything I experienced working with the kids and the staff has changed me and now I will continue through life a better person. You have made Camp Manitou an amazing success. You and your team are changing lives!!

first year staff member age 21 years old 2005

s the most amazing feeling knowing that I made such an impact on these young girl’s lives and that I really made their summer.

third year staff member 2005

I would firstly like to express my gratitude to your self, Mark and Jeff for providing me with the unforgettable experience which was camp Manitou 2005. The kids, activities , and overall entire programming for the summer was first class..

first year staff member 2005

Camp was the first time I felt valued because it shaped me into the person I am so proud to be. The other day my older sister asked me where I got my confidence, ambition and zest for life and I told her that honestly, being at Camp Manitou makes you want to live and succeed – it’s a very very special place where you can grow to be yourself and also have the time of your life. Thanks for the two amazing summers.

- Head of Aerobics

I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to come and "work" for you and all the other directors. It never felt like work there, and that's probably why I loved it so much...not to mention the great staff, atmosphere and most of all amazing campers. It's a lot harder here in the 'real world' where you don't have such a large amazing support staff to call on at anytime of any day to help you out with your problems or just to listen to you rant. Having these past four summers at Manitou has really meant a lot to me. The friendships and memories that I've made will stay in my heart always and all that I've experienced in some way or another will help me to be a better person, and for that I truly am grateful. Thank you!

- Senior Female Counsellor- 2004

I was browsing the Manitou site (like I do almost every other week) and I found the new link to the new camp song. I downloaded it and listened to it, and it caught me that, Manitou was really a place that all of us should treasure well. From the camp programs to the staff, there is every bit of reason for us to savour Manitou like no other things. How many people could proudly elaborate on their world games experience? How many people could actually witness a golf cart race? The point is, some of us just don't treasure the time at camp as we should be. For me, I treat it as nothing less than a great educational experience, while getting paid, making friends, and learning people skills. And I was chilling so much as well it's just remarkable.

This past summer, I had a great experience with nature. I was practicing soccer by myself the other day at camp, and while I was having a drink by the goal post, a deer came out of nowhere and stood couple feet from me. We were staring at each other for the longest time, before one of the directors' wives came by on a golf cart. She watched the whole experience the whole time, and I believe that she was in awe like I was. Point is, where else could I have experienced this? I don't know. This deer is not one of those samples you see in meseum or one behind bars in a zoo. It's in Manitou.

I will always look forward to Manitou, enjoying another year of chill and fun. Oh yeah, as well as all those duffel bags that I have to carry.

---Pete

Hi Mark and Jeff….You are are both so incredibly lucky to have such an amazing camp that is made up of absolutely phenomenal staff an d campers. I really did feel incredibly welcomed at Manitou from day one and I was continually shocked at how well you treated not only the campers but the staff as well. I can not even comment on world games- I am still speechless…. I can see the dynamics of the camp are directly influenced by two caring compassionate leaders. Good luck to you both and thank you again for a great experience.
Christine- unithead.

As the summer went on it became apparent that Manitou was more than just a camp but a family….I really enjoyed working for you and all the directors
Tripper Kyle 2004

Thank you for an amazing summer. You are both truly amazing and you are both so luck to do what you do.
Counselor Rachel

As usual this summer was unforgettable and one of the best times of my life….
Counsellor Carrie

This was such a different experience (first year staff) for me being a counselor … I learned a lot about myself…thanks for everything….
Sacha

Senior Staff member-Theatre staff:
I want to thank you all for another great summer at Manitou….camp gave us a clear understanding that the camp experience is being there for all your friends and family. Again this summer I was given the opportunity to form new and wonderful friendships and strengthen many others. I have made some of my best friends at camp and Manitou and the camp experience we have shared is like no other. Thanks for everything and have a great year.

Senior office staff:
I just wanted to write you and let you know how much I loved being at camp this summer. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to become part of the Manitou family. It did my heart and soul more good than you will ever know. Camp is such an amazing place because it is a place to learn about others, and yourself. We are so lucky to be surrounded by people who help us do that every day, 24 hours a day…..Thank you very much for everything this summer. IT was an unforgettable experience.

Activity Head:
Manitou has the best most genuinely caring staff and directors anywhere!

Junior counsellor:
Thank you for providing us with the opportunity to learn, grow and change. Camp is family to us and we love it!

Senior counsellors:
"My girls are outstanding. The laughter they brought me is unforgettable. I will merely have to recall second month at Manitou to crack a smile. Thank you.

Thank you guys for a great summer without any problems and a lot of friendship

Thanks to all my boys for giving me the best summer ever, and a life time of memories.

It's now almost two months since Camp 2002 ended and still not a day goes past without at least one memory of the summer flashing through my mind. Having now spent the last two summers on staff I feel the experience has now formed a major part of who I am today. Not only have I had the chance to make long lasting friendships...but I myself have had the chance to take part in new activities, such as going on a canoe trip and waterskiing. Not forgetting the most significant part of the camp experience, being a camp counselor and forming that special bond with both my cabin and many other campers. I could never imagine I would genuinely miss so many campers as if they were my own friends ...and miss having twelve campers to depends on me for advice, guidance and friendship. But I miss of all these things ...Camp is the most unbelievable world that I have had the privilege to be a part of twice. I guess what I am trying to say is Thank You so much for giving me the opportunity to be part of the incredible Manitou family...Camp Manitou is part of my life now and will always be in my thoughts. You guys do a fantastic job and I hope you will continue to enjoy directing this great camp. I only wish that I was younger and could have gone to Manitou as a camper. Also you taught me an invaluable lesson for the future: do what you want to do and what makes you happy.
Senior staff member 2002

Thanks for an amazing summer. There wasn't a day that I didn't want to get out of bed for those kids even though I know I probably looked so tired. I loved every minute of it and can't wait until next summer. All the best…

I would like to take this opportunity to extend a warm thanks for an absolutely fantastic summer. My experience as staff at Manitou was one I will never forget. If you had asked me in June how I would predict the summer to be, I would have never imagined that I would walk away with so many amazing memories and friendships that will hopefully last a lifetime!! Your sense of humour and helpful nature made the transition to staff much more enjoyable. Once again thanks for the best summer yet!

I know how busy you and Jeff are so I thought I would let you know I think camp is spectacular this summer and it has a real family feel to it. Thanks for letting us back on such short notice. We love it.

Wow I can't believe how fast its all gone by. Thank so much. I have learned from this amazing fairyland.

The feeling of family that I have every summer.

Thank you for giving me a chance this summer. I have learned a lot from you guys and had a wonderful summer.

As usual the summer has helped me grow and learn. Thank you for all the fun and memories. I love you!

I loved working with and getting to know the campers. I enjoyed getting the goats for World Games and building the Waterfall. Of course all the memories are special.

I loved working with the kids and teaching them . I loved writing the songs during world games. IT was truly a phenomenal summer. Thanks.

With the summer officially underway, this book serves to capture each and every special moment. To friendships old and new, I look forward to helping you all grow and make memories that will last forever. Thanks Manitou!

I have never had a job like this before, where the bosses actually care about their employees so much as to sit outside and talk to them for an hour and a half even if they have a busy day. I found it just great working at Manitou mostly due to the job you and all of the staff do. ( and your wonderful how to flush a toilet demo was one of the highlights of the summer). I think the fact that you care so much about each other and the camp, really rubs off to not only the campers but the staff as well.
First Year Staff Member 2001

Because you care about the happiness of your staff I got the chance to do theatre this year even though I was hired to do something else. From writing the opening and closing for Greenland at World Games to working in the theatre, you have now made me want to do things with my life that I never before had the courage to ever dream of. Thanks for an amazing summer.
First Year Staff Member 2001

My greatest memory of camp was going on a canoe trip with my girls and getting knee deep in mud and having a mud fight. I have too many awesome memories to write down. I made so many wonderful friends this summer.
Staff member 2001

My favorite memory of camp is just being able to take some time and do anything or nothing with my cabin.
Staff member 2001

As a first time staff member, it has been one of the best summers of my life. Thank-you so much for allowing me the opportunity to experience this incredible place.
First year Staff member 2001

Thank you so much. I had the best summer I could have imagined
First year staff member 2001

Once again it was a summer to remember. You guys are special people who enhance the lives of so many each summer. Thanks for all of your support, fun and memories.
Unit Head 2001

Thank you for the best summer by far, made by my girls and as a result of great friends. My fondest memory is the feeling I got when my Freshkids told me how much they loved me. What a feeling!
First year staff member 2001

Thanks for an incredible summer full of memories that will last a lifetime. Manitou has a special place in my heart because of you.
Long time Staff member 2001

This summer has truly been one full of fun, adventure and amazing people. I am more than thankful to have worked here this summer and to have been surrounded by children in such a special place. Thank you so much…for everything you have done and for the great people that you are . Manitou will stay with me forever because of this,
Staff member 2001

The river of love runs through this magical place. I have had the best summer ever.
New staff member 2001

Thank you very much for yet another excellent summer. The memories I take from here will be with me for the rest of my life…cheers.
Long time Staff member 2001

Thank you so much for making my first Manitou experience a fantastic one, I will be back for many years to come
First year Staff member