The CYM Summer Camp “Moving Forward – Winning Together”, named in honour of Yaroslav Stetsko, took place at Verkhovyna near Chertsey, Quebec, from July 12–26, 2026. Before the official opening of the tabir, Fr. Ihor Oshchipko celebrated the Divine Liturgy, blessing the campers and leadership as they began two unforgettable weeks of learning, friendship, and adventure.

First and foremost, we would like to recognize the outstanding leadership team that worked tirelessly with our children throughout the two weeks. The tabir leadership included Orest Vankevych as Komendant, Danylo Radovenchyk as Bunchuzhnyi, Larysa Luszczki as Head Counsellor, and Natalia Procikevych as Camp Nurse. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to them, as well as to the Camp Committee under the leadership of Melania Czoli, for their dedication, hard work, and countless hours spent organizing and running this year’s camp.

The campers were divided into royi according to age, with each rij choosing its own name. The youngest girls became the “Verkhovynky,” the youngest boys the “Lysy”, the middle girls the “Verkhovynski Zirky”, the middle boys the“Kozaky”, the older girls (ages 11–12) the “Dniprovi Khvyli”, the oldest girls (age 13) the “Lilii”, and the older boys the “Kosari”.

Our sincere thanks go to the many counsellors, vporiadnyky, and assistants who devoted their time and energy to their roi each day: Adelia Azamee-Sydor, Vasylyna Molodtsova, Bohdanna Olyva, Melania Schturyn, Tessa Stecyk, Victor Kuzyshyn, Tymur Pekar, Yulian Harasymovych, Luka Newland, Olena Yankiv, Serhii Patterson, Bohdan Vashchuk, Dariia Radovenchyk, Adriana Rzepka, Anna Mandyuk, Nastia Newland, Serafyna Charna, Olena Holovka, Natalia Barska, Ivan Horobets, Tymofii Tolpenko, Maksym Siryi, and Maksym Tril. Their commitment helped create an environment where every camper could learn, grow, and build lasting friendships.

A delicious and nutritious kitchen was an essential part of camp life. Fred Gervais oversaw the kitchen, working alongside a wonderful team of volunteer mothers who prepared incredible meals each day, ensuring that everyone had the energy needed for the busy camp schedule. We also extend our appreciation to the caretakers of Verkhovyna, who worked diligently to maintain the palanky, keep the grounds beautiful, and ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

Each day, campers rotated through a variety of activities. During singing sessions led by Melania Schturyn, with the support of the Shtyk family, children’s voices echoed throughout the camp as they learned and celebrated traditional Ukrainian folk songs, strengthening their connection to Ukrainian culture and heritage. Sports activities were led by Andrii Radovenchyk and Louis Valente, who encouraged campers to stay active while reinforcing one of the core principles of CYM—to care for one’s own health and the well-being of others. During arts and crafts, led by Natalia Radovenchyk and Natalia Kostiv, campers created imaginative handmade projects and explored their creativity.

Every afternoon, campers enjoyed swimming in the lake, cooling off from the summer heat and relaxing before the evening program. On rainy days, when the famous Verkhovyna weather interrupted outdoor activities, everyone gathered indoors to watch movies and spend time together at the camp kiosk.

The tabir also included two exciting excursions. The first was a visit to Camp Boute-en-Train, where campers enjoyed activities such as ziplining, canoeing, and a variety of water games. The second excursion was a fun afternoon of bowling followed by ice cream.

Two memorable vatry brought everyone together around the campfire. Organized by Melania Schturyn, they featured traditional songs, meaningful ceremonies, and concluded with hilarious skits performed by each rip, providing plenty of laughter and unforgettable memories.

In addition to the daily rotations, campers participated in several special events throughout the two weeks. A traditional Taborove Vesilia introduced everyone to the customs and traditions of a Ukrainian wedding. During the celebration of Ivana Kupala, campers sang traditional Kupala songs, wove flower wreaths, and crafted small wooden boats. The annual Camp Olympics gave royi the opportunity to compete in a variety of athletic events, while the Talent Night showcased the many gifts and abilities of our campers. One of the most anticipated evenings was the Pan i Pani Verkhovyna competition, where campers selected counsellors to represent the honorary titles. Two festive dances also gave everyone the chance to dress up, dance, and celebrate together.

When it came time to pack up and head home, it was clear that no one wanted to leave Verkhovyna. During these two weeks, campers made lifelong friendships, created unforgettable memories, learned new skills, and strengthened both their love for Ukraine and their pride in being part of the CYM community.

We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this year’s tabir such a success, and to all the parents for entrusting us with their children. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to Verkhovyna next summer!

Additional photos of this year’s camp can be viewed here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/TRz4muuHtAFJCNdV7

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