Youth learn to team build at Camp Wittman

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Story Published: Jun 27, 2008 at 12:02 AM PDT

Story Updated: Nov 20, 2008 at 10:13 PM PDT

By Hayley Guenthner

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CAMP WITTMAN - It isn't your typical summer camp. Forget toasting s'mores and singing by the fire, and instead think rock climbing and National Guard training.

Nez Perce County Corporal Patrick Santos said the Boys and Girls Club, the Nez Perce County Court Services, and the Lewiston Police Department put on the 12th annual camp that is centered around team building.

"We bring them up here and try to give them a little structure in their lives, because a lot of them don't have structure," Santos said. "We try to give them a positive attitude, not only about themselves, but also working as a team."

The five day camp is free to Valley youth and graduation is set for Saturday. Lewiston Police Officer Cory Blair said participants are selected by area authorities.

"We'll meet, we'll look and see," he said. "Maybe we have some kids who are outstanding or possibly at risk. We'll discuss this throughout the year before the camp."

There is definitely little free time at the site. Santos said a different local agency is at the ranch each day to teach campers a new skill. He said this week, the teens will have the opportunity to hear the story of a real prisoner, learn boat safety, and see what a SWAT team is all about. Santos said officials work hard from day one to let the campers know who's boss.

"They get out of the bus, get yelled at, and then they line up," he said. "We teach them the rules of the camp and who's in charge, because we're in charge, not them."

Blair said the week is typically a huge success. He said come Friday, the changes are obvious, but the true test is maintaining the behavioral improvements.

"By the end of the week you see a huge change in the kids," he said. "It's just if we continue that once they're back home and throughout the year."

Although the camp is no picnic, Santos said everyone was treated to delicious meals. He said he is very happy with the way the week is going and is excited to see how much further the kids will come.

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