Archive for June, 2024

Welcoming the new multisport court and treehouse slide

Posted on: June 27th, 2024 by SLMC Media

Silver Lake is wrapping up two major projects: the multisport court and treehouse slide. Both will be built in time for this summer. These new features are the result of our successful Fun at Camp campaign, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to making these dreams a reality.

The multisport court will be the heart of our Sports Camp, scheduled from August 4-10. This versatile space will host a variety of activities, providing endless fun and fostering teamwork among campers. Whether it’s basketball, volleyball, or soccer, the multisport court will enable campers to play their favourite sports and try new ones.

Another exciting addition is the treehouse slide, which promises to be a highlight for all who visit Silver Lake’s iconic treehouse in the Enchanted Forest. The twirly slide’s vibrant teal color was chosen by our Silver Lake community through a vote, which also included purple, red, and yellow.

These projects are a testament to the incredible support and generosity of our camp community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated and supported these initiatives. Your contributions have made it possible for us to continue providing a nurturing and fun-filled environment for our campers.

If you want to be involved, we’re still accepting donations for sports equipment and needed landscaping around the court. CLICK HERE to contribute. Thank you so much for your support!

Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting projects. We look forward to seeing many campers use the court and slide this summer.

Thank you, Silver Lake community!

Remembering Ed Harder

Posted on: June 12th, 2024 by SLMC Media

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ed Harder, a cherished member of the Silver Lake community. Ed, a devoted Silver Laker, left an indelible mark on our camp through his leadership, dedication, and tireless volunteer efforts.

Ed’s journey with Silver Lake spanned decades. He was on summer staff in the early 1970s, which included leading the CILT program with his wife Jo-Anne. Through the 1990s, Ed served on the Board of Directors, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of our camp. His hands-on approach was evident in the construction of the volunteer cabins and staff cabins that are still used today.

Former Executive Director Dave Erb fondly recalls Ed’s instrumental role in planning the reconstruction of our new dining hall after the old one was destroyed in a fire. Ed’s vision and meticulous planning were also crucial in the development of the new cabins on the north side of camp. His contributions have created lasting memories and spaces for future generations of campers.

Ed’s love for SLMC has been passed down to his daughters Rachel, a strong supporter of Silver Lake, and Rebecca (Heide), who works as a year-round staff member with the administration team. His grandsons Nick, Noah, Kieran, and Adam are all on summer staff, while his youngest grandson Toby is a CILT II this year.

In May of 2023, Ed was able to visit Silver Lake for the last time. He toured around camp and inspected every single building on site to make sure they were all holding up okay!

To honor Ed Harder’s legacy and his lifelong dedication to Silver Lake, donations can be made in his memory through the Ed Harder Memorial Fund. Your contributions will continue Ed’s mission of enhancing and nurturing the camp he loved so dearly.

Click here to make a donation.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Ed’s family and all who were touched by his remarkable spirit. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the heart of Silver Lake.

Here is the link to Ed’s obituary to see visitation and service details.

 

 

 

Silver Lake raises record $67,700 at 15th annual Grand Paddle and Hike

Posted on: June 12th, 2024 by SLMC Media

We are thrilled to announce that the 15th annual Grand Paddle and Hike fundraiser (May 10-12) raised over $67,700. This amount marks the highest in the event’s history, significantly surpassing the goal of $63,000.

A heartfelt thank you to all participants, donors, supporters, and sponsors who helped us have a successful event, enabling SLMC to thrive into the future.

A special shoutout goes to Abe Fehr and his company, UniFab, for their generous donation of $10,000 to cap the event, which played a crucial role in exceeding our fundraising target. The substantial support from UniFab and other contributors highlights the strong community spirit and commitment to the camp’s mission.

This year’s event saw a record participation of 63 teams, a fitting number as Silver Lake celebrates its 63rd anniversary. The enthusiastic involvement from participants and donors alike underscores the enduring legacy and community connection of the camp.

Funds raised from the Grand Paddle and Hike will keep camp fees affordable for families and will support Silver Lake’s ongoing programs and initiatives, ensuring that we can continue to provide enriching experiences for campers of all ages. Again, we are deeply grateful for the unwavering support from our community and look forward to many more years of shared adventures and memories.

THANK YOU!