Paradise in the Carpathians: a transformative journey of personal growth, confidence, and lifelong friendships through the YMCA Summer Camp, within the Camp Europe Programme Framework.

A camp is more than just a vacation; it’s a chance to discover new qualities within yourself, overcome personal challenges, and step outside your comfort zone.

The YMCA’s Paradise in the Carpathians camp provides a unique environment where children and teenagers can grow, gain valuable experiences, and form lifelong friendships. One of the most inspiring stories is that of Bohdan, a participant whose two experiences at the camp completely transformed his outlook on himself and the world.

“My name is Bohdan, and I participated in the Paradise in the Carpathians camp. I live near Verkhovyna, just two hours away by car. It was my first camp experience, and being a tent camp made it even more challenging. Every day pushed me out of my comfort zone, and I struggled to adapt. A day before the camp ended, I decided to go home because I couldn’t cope with the new environment and routine.

Afterward, I didn’t keep in touch with many campers, and I wasn’t sure if I wanted to try again. But when I saw the information about the Paradise in the Carpathians 2024 camp, something inside me changed, and I decided to sign up again.

When I returned, everything felt different. I was more comfortable, the other campers treated me with respect, and I felt confident. The previous camp experience had impacted me more than I realized. I discovered new aspects of myself—confidence, lightness, and even a sense of humor. This time, I joined in all the activities, made jokes, dressed up, and even danced. I felt free and saw myself in a new way, and it’s all thanks to YMCA!”

Paradise in the Carpathians is not just a place for relaxation—it’s a space for personal growth and transformation. Bohdan’s journey is one example of how a camp experience can lead to profound change. Each new day at camp offers opportunities for development and self-discovery.