The Madison Area YMCA’s Quest Camps welcomed eight crew members including four men and four women, the Chief of the Boat and Commissioning Committee of the United States Ship New Jersey (SSN 796). The submarine crew is on a tour as part of their “Namesake Program” to connect with the State of New Jersey through visits before the September 14 commissioning of the U.S. Navy’s first attack submarine designed for a mixed-gender crew. 

“The visit was a special highlight of the summer not only for our campers but for our Y management team,” said Y President & CEO Diane Mann. “We are honored to welcome the crew and deeply appreciate their service to our country by filling these unique military roles. Their enthusiasm in engaging with our campers and answering their numerous questions made the visit most meaningful.” 

The crew explained their mission to the campers and staff, fielding an array of curious questions. The campers asked everything from “What does a submarine do?” and “What foods do you eat while onboard?” to “Is there a medic on board?” and “Do you have a toothbrush?” The crew met these inquiries with great answers, enthusiastically engaging with the campers throughout. 

"It was fantastic for our campers to learn so much from the crew of the USS New Jersey," said Finola Colon, School Age After Care, Camp, Teen & Family Director. "The day was both educational and fun, leaving a lasting impression on our campers and staff." 

Madison Area YMCA Quest Camps, for campers in preschool through entering grade 10, gives children experiences that blend the timeless joys of traditional day camp activities with the marvels of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). With three locations (Drew University, F.M. Kirby Children's Center of the Madison Area YMCA, and the Y's Family Center) the summertime is filled with character building and independence through a variety of age-appropriate activities led by thoughtful, trained and caring staff. Quest camps include MiniQuest (preschool, ages 3-4), KidsQuest (entering kindergarten - grade 6),  Leader In Training camps (entering grades 7 - 10) and SpecialtyQuest (entering kindergarten - grade 6) Specialty Quest includes options for a deeper dive into one of our program areas; choose from Gymnastics, School of Performing Arts, Sports, Fine Arts, and Y Ninja Gym.   

At the Madison Area YMCA, we believe that every child should be able to enjoy the best summer camp experience possible. The Madison Area YMCA is a mission-driven charitable organization, committed to providing an enriching camp experience for all, and providing help to families who may not be able to afford the full price of camp. Guided by the core values of caring, honesty, responsibility, and respect, we aspire to be the center of a healthy community that includes and supports everyone. The Madison Area YMCA is dedicated to nurturing the potential of our youth, providing a safe space for teens, improving the community’s health and well-being, and giving back by providing support to our neighbors. For more information about financial assistance or to make a tax-deductible donation, visit our website at www.madisonareaymca.org.