Charitie Bruning on LinkedIn: While we are gearing up for an exciting summer here at YMCA Camp Bernie… (2024)

This week at the Tri-State Camping Conference I was so happy to connect with a network of BIPOC folks in the camping industry and reminded of how much work still needs to be done. As I continue to share my journey as a proud BIPOC Executive in the camping industry, and in the YMCA, I've experienced the transformative power of outdoor experiences and the joy it brings to young people from diverse backgrounds. I must also call attention to the fact that there are still so few of us across the movement. 3000+ people at this conference and yet, only 56 of us in that affinity space. For the youth that we serve, for the staff we support, and for ourselves - if you can see it, you can be it and we need to see more.I am committed to providing inclusive spaces where all can thrive and we can celebrate black joy through outdoor adventure. I'm passionate about connecting with fellow BIPOC professionals on their journeys and creating opportunities for meaningful engagement in the camping world. Let's continue to uplift and empower one another! #BIPOCinCamping #YMCA #BlackJoy #InclusiveOutdoors #CampLife

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As I hurredly juggled multiple tasks in the kitchen tonight, a simple slip of the hand resulted in a complete mess on the floor. In that moment, I was reminded of a universal truth: mistakes happen. It’s how we respond to these hiccups that truly defines us. Spend less time dwelling on the mess, acknowledge it, and just clean it up. Personally, professionally, and for yourself: Every mishap is a chance to learn, adapt, and come back even stronger. So here’s to embracing imperfection and recognizing that it’s all part of the journey towards success. #EmbraceMistakes #LearnAndGrow #Resilience

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#YMCA Camp Bernie is #hiring a Senior Program Director. This is a great role for those looking to grow their careers within the camping industry and recreation management. The Senior Program Director position is designed for those who have previously supervised full-time staff/staff teams, have Program Director experience, and are looking to oversee several departments. This person will be working closely with our camps and contract groups.Invest in your future with YMCA Camp Bernie and apply today!

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I am thrilled to share that I am embarking on a new chapter as the Executive Director at YMCA Camp Bernie! 🏕️Joining this incredible team, I’m excited to lead and support a community dedicated to fostering growth, leadership, and unforgettable experiences for campers of all ages. The opportunity to contribute to the goal of empowering young individuals through outdoor education is truly an honor.I am looking forward to collaborating with the exceptional staff, engaging with campers, and building upon the rich history of Camp Bernie and Ridgewood YMCA. Together, we’ll continue to create a nurturing and adventurous environment for everyone who walks through our doors.I am grateful for the support and guidance that has led me to this point and excited about the journey ahead. Feel free to connect with me to share insights, ideas, or simply to reconnect!Cheers to new beginnings and the amazing adventures ahead! 🌲⛺ #NewBeginnings #CampBernie #ExecutiveDirector

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I’ve spent some time reflecting this weekend on my participation in the Principles and Practices experience with the incredible Erin Grayson and Michelle A. Velasquez. Returning to Silver Bay after so many years, and reconnecting with Y people was such a great reset last week.During our closing reflections I had to smile at the fateful placement of my new compass chip giving me a few friendly reminders. Pointing towards myself: caring and self care (put your oxygen mask on yourself first). Pointing out toward others: to respect and remember the journey others are on (disrupt my own main character energy). In the direction of the past: being honest and taking inventory of the steps I’ve taken to get here (what filter am I looking through). In the direction of the future: a responsibility to myself and those around me and to the amazing opportunities I have worked so hard to achieve.#leadership #leadershipdevelopment #ymca #characterdevelopment

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As a program consultant, every week brings a new adventure. After an impromptu trip to NYC this weekend, I had the pleasure of leading a staff workshop on Program Innovation for YMCA of the Twin Tiers yesterday. I'm grateful for the opportunity to do what I love in such different ways. Today, I was able to help a former colleague out of a jam by running their team-building for the Genesee County Youth Leadership program and their teens crushed it! Loving the diversity of my projects and the chance to make a difference! #ProgramConsultant #DiversityAndInclusion #YouthLeadership

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Fall is here and I couldn't be more excited! The cozy blankets are out, the house smells of cinnamon, cloves, and apples, and I'm on the lookout for my next good book. As I transition my garden for the season, I'm also looking forward to some exciting professional development, community projects, and consulting gigs. Who says January is the only time for new beginnings? Something about fall just sparks inspiration in me.

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Investing in others is rewarding, but investing in yourself is equally important. Completing the Global-Leader certification has been a personal goal of mine, and a great reminder of the value of self-investment. Don't forget to prioritize your own growth too! #investinyourself #selfimprovement

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“Where there’s a Y, there’s a way.” What an awesome opportunity it is for us as a movement and an organization to make our YMCAs and our communities spaces for belonging. Building strong and thriving communities is not a new concept for the YMCA but I love to see how this work evolves year after year. As I continue to support my community with the Y, I love to see the stories of how my Y friends and colleaures are doing this too! Great article Chad Nico Hiu!

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