This year, the American-Ukrainian Youth Association in Chicago, is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its beloved campground in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Members and non-members alike have all made memories on this delightful plot of land over the years. The start of the summer season has always been Memorial Day weekend in May, and this year, it marked the beginning of a summer-long schedule of festivities designated to raise funds for the renovation of this treasure - that is an escape for all those working hard in the city.
The fundraising and celebration campaign began with a 4 mile Walk-a-Thon on the roads surrounding our beloved “oselia”. Participants ranging from 5 to 60 years young took part in this joyous occasion and every single one of them completed the entire course. We were blessed with a cool breeze and warm temperatures that left a sun-kissed glow on the participants’ faces. More than $7,000 was raised towards our goal.
Yunatstvo enjoyed a miniature tabir in the ever-faithful barracks, enduring early morning wake-up calls and organized activities throughout the day. They gathered wood for bonfires, enjoyed a “vechirka” and challenged one another in games. Everyone was sad to part ways on Monday, but only with the promise that tabir/camp was but 6 weeks away!
The committee thanks everyone for their efforts in making the Walk-a-Thon a great success – from the car drivers that kept us safe throughout our path, to the kitchen ladies that kept our stomachs full the entire weekend. We encourage everyone to join in the celebratory weekends occurring all summer at oselia Baraboo to help preserve nature’s treasure and a part of Ukraine in the diaspora.
Ivanka Bryan - Chicago branch Press referent
