History
In 1971, the late Thomas McGovern donated 100 acres of land in the Mono Cliffs on the Niagara Escarpment to be used as a children's camp. Big Brothers of Kitchener-Waterloo took up the challenge to develop such a camp for Little Brothers around Ontario.
In the late 90's our 30year land use permit expired and a new permanent home was found in Hanover, Ontario to continue and expand our program. Since the subsequent merging of the Big Brothers and Big Sisters Associations, the camp has now grown to include Little Sisters in an integrated coed program.
In 2008, a decision was made to separate the operation of Camp McGovern from that of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kitchener-Waterloo and Area, better enabling each organization to pursue their given mandates. To this end, on April 1st 2009, Camp McGovern became its own charitable organization.
Today, Camp McGovern continues to remain faithful to the original vision of providing underprivileged children with the opportunity to go to camp. Participants in our programs must be involved in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs around Ontario, or be associated with local United Way member agencies.
All revenue goes to development of our property and programs, as well as to subsidize campers who attend our program during the summer months. Most of our campers would not have such an opportunity otherwise.
Director
Greg Dow has been involved with Camp McGovern since 2003. Greg has a BRE in Youth Work and Counseling, and also completed a 10-month Outdoor Leadership Development Program at Medeba Adventure Learning Centre.
Greg has been working in the camping industry since 1991 with experiences at 5 different camps in Ontario and Saskatchewan. He has also worked with numerous demographics of youth as well as with disabled persons. He has ORCA Canoing training, First Aid/CPR, Wilderness First Aid and is a challenge Course Instructor through Challenges unlimited.
The Director is available for facilitation of groups upon request.
