Talcott recognized for outstanding service to youth

Jane Talcott, outgoing director of Washtenaw Camp Placement

submitted by Washtenaw Camp Placement 

A local resident has been recognized for outstanding service during 12 years as Executive Director of Washtenaw Camp Placement (WCP), a 62 year old non-profit organization that serves local youth. Matthew Tarver-Wahlquist, her successor, presented Jane Talcott of Freedom Township the first annual award named for her.  It reads, “For exceptional service towards transforming the lives of the children and youth of Washtenaw County.” 

WCP provides cost free sleep-away camping opportunities that would otherwise not be available to eligible applicants in Grades 5 through age 16.  Six YMCA camps throughout Michigan collaborate with WCP to provide campers time away from electronic devices, making new friends while enjoying nature and new experiences. 

WCP has awarded more than 10,000 camperships. Jane remarked, “Many of the campers shoulder burdens beyond their years. Camp is a chance to be a kid like any other, and it helps with development of life skills such as independence, confidence, cooperation, leadership and responsibility. Many teachers remarked on the positive change they saw in a student who had attended camp. Parents frequently remarked that a son or daughter was more helpful around home after camp, or nicer to a sibling. It was a privilege to be a part of that process.”

For more information visit WCP’s website, WashtenawCampPlacment.org or contact Program Director Amanda Fales, email afales@washtenawcampplacement or telephone 734.968.3895.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.