CAMP HOLY CROSS SUMMER CAMP
JULY 6-11, 2025 & JULY 13-18, 2025
AGES 8-15
Session II – July 13-18, 2025
Overnight & CIT Camp $450 per session
Day Camp $400 per Session
Cost is all inclusive of meals, lodging and activities.
A $50 Non-Refundable Deposit must accompany the application.
Each family upon first time login should select Sign Up in order to login.
Please record username (email) and password in a safe place for return visit to the site.
Each family will have only one login.
Same login is used for both the Traditional Camp, CIT and the Bible Adventure.
This will allow you to register your child, request cabin mate and complete the Health History Form On-line.
The deposit will not be refunded in the event of withdrawal.
The remaining balance is due at least one month prior to the beginning of the session.
There will be no reduction of fees for early departure or late arrival.
Should a camper withdraw or be asked to leave due to behavior problems after the start of camp, tuition will not be refunded unless withdrawal is for medical reasons recommended by our nursing staff.
A refund will not be made for homesickness.
Check-out is 12pm Friday (11:30 closing ceremony).
We ask that you follow these times and are prompt to make both processes as smooth as possible.
We will NOT provide accommodations for campers to stay in between sessions.
Become a Camp Holy Cross Camper!
Traditional Youth Camp – Day or Overnight
Two Opportunities for kids 8-15 years old.Session I = July 7-11, 2025
Session II = July 13-18, 2025$450 per session – Overnight Camp
$400 per session – Day Camp
Our camp program includes swimming, boating, soccer, kickball, wiffle ball, hiking, volleyball, basketball, large group games, a giant slip-and-slide, tie-dyeing, nature based activities, a game room, camp-wide competitions, movie night, campfires, dances, and much more! In addition to sports and aquatics, we encourage the arts through crafts and talent development programs. There is a little something for everyone to try and enjoy. Faith Based Activities will round out our offerings. Daily prayer and faith based exercises will be part of the daily program.
Youth Day Camp
Our day camp program runs from 9am to 5pm Monday through Thursday, and 9am to 12pm Friday. Day campers are also welcome to join us Sunday night at 7pm for orientation. Day campers will participate in all the normal daily activities. This is a great way for campers who are unsure of leaving home for a week to see what camp is all about and still get a great summer
Counselor In Training Program
JUNIOR COUNSELOR TRAINING CAMP For Ages 14-15
**Campers of this age may choose to not be apart of this program, and instead participate as a traditional camper.Session I = July 6-11, 2025 Session II = July 13-18, 2025$450 per session
These young campers will learn the skills necessary to be a successful camp counselor. They will learn from seasoned counselors everything from how to manage a cabin community, to planning and implementing successful camp activities. They will have group sessions, projects and on the job training opportunities. As part of this program, they will learn American Red Cross CPR and First Aid Skills.
The students day will include participating in camp meals, recreation, waterfront and free time. This program runs in concert with the Summer Camp For Youth. To find more information on recreation, waterfront and program opportunities please refer to that section.
This program is for the motivated camper, who hopes one day to work at a certified residential camp program. Completion of this course in no ways guarantees future employment. This certification program will enable boys and girls to develop leadership skills and learn to handle increasing responsibility of managing the complex issues of today’s young campers.
Session 1: July 6-11
Monday- Disney Day: Rep your favorite Disney character, movie or show!!
Tuesday- Mountain Adventure Bandana Day: Wear your favorite bandana or as many
bandanas as you can for our leisurely jaunt through the woods!!
Wednesday- Wacky Hair Day: Show us your wackiest hair, even if it’s a wig, give it
your best.
Thursday- Blue Day: Don’t worry it’s not a sad day…Wear your favorite shade of blue
Friday- Happy Face Friday: Don’t be sad it’s over, be happy you were here. Put on
your best smile as we say good bye…See you real soon!!!
Thursday Night Dance Theme-
Full Moon Party- Dance in the magic of the moonlight…Hopefully no
werewolves show up for our special treats!!
Session 2: July 13-18
Monday- Magical Monday: Prepare for a magical day…bring a magic trick, learn a
magic trick, be part of a magic trick…Maybe we can make somebody disappear…
anything is possible
Tuesday- Mountain Adventure Bandana Day: Wear your favorite bandana or
as many bandanas as you can for our leisurely jaunt through the woods!!
Wednesday- Seussical the Musical: Dress as your favorite Dr. Seuss character
or create your own Dr. Seuss like character!!!
Thursday- Neon Day: Dress up in your brightest and craziest neon clothes!
Friday- Hug it out: As we say goodbye to new friends and old friends hugs or
high fives all around on our last camp day of 2025…see you next year!!
Thursday Night Dance Theme-
Let’s Glow!!! Come in for a glow party and an epic dance battle for some special
prizes.
We are excited to welcome your child/children to our camp this summer. This will provide you details to help prepare for a wonderful camp experience. Camp begins on Sunday Evening with check-in 5:00-7:00pm. Dinner is not served on Sunday Evening. A snack will be served later in the evening. On the day of departure your child must be picked up no later than 1:00pm. Concluding ceremony will begin at 11:30am.
Directions
Follow Route 9 (West from Northampton / East from Pittsfield) into the Town of Goshen. Turn onto Route 112 North and follow for 1 mile taking a right onto our property. Our camp is just past the entrance to the DAR State Forrest.
From the North (Greenfield/Franklin County) Take Rt. 2 to Rt. 112 South into the town of Goshen. We are located just past mile marker 29.5 on the left.
PACKING LIST FOR CAMP
-Change of clothes for five days. Sweatshirt/Jacket/Rain Gear
-Extra clothes depending on the forecast for the week
-No laundry facilities are available.
-Nights can be cool, please plan accordingly when packing
-Theme Days will be available as a download through your CampDoc profile.
-Sleeping Bag and Pillow or Bed Linens with Blanket
-Any and all medications that have been listed on your CampDoc profile in original container
-Flashlight and Extra Batteries
-Sun Screen & Bug Spray (bug spray and sunscreen will be taken at check-in and distributed to campers as needed throughout the week, please label)
-Personal Hygiene Items & Towel(s)
-Toothbrush/Toothpaste, Soap or Bodywash, Shampoo, Deodorant etc.
Please do not bring expensive items to camp such as make up, perfume, cologne etc.
-Bathing Suit and Swim Towel (Goggles and or Water Shoes if desired)
-Sneakers / Hiking Shoes (Closed Toed shoes should be worn for all outdoor activities)
-Extra sneakers or rain boots depending on forecasted weather
-Baseball Glove and other Sports Equipment if desired
-We have basketballs, soccer balls, kick balls, frisbees, footballs, volleyballs, ping-pong, badminton, and wiffle ball equipment.
-Please Clearly Mark Any Items You Bring
-No Bicycles, Skateboards, Roller skates or Rollerblades
-Fishing Pole and Tackle are allowed (use is restricted)
-Phone or other electronic devices if desired
All electronic and internet capable devices will be taken at time of check-in and stored securely during camp sessions. These items will be made available each day during free time.
Points to consider
-Visitors are not allowed on the property at any time. This includes parents/guardians of campers. Unless previously discussed with Directors
–All cabins have lights. Although flashlights are recommended for nighttime activities and walking from place to place.
–Our camp nurse is not permitted to dispense medication not listed on your child’s health form, including over the counter medications which have not been authorized by a parent/guardian.
* All Medication must be brought to camp in original and labeled containers.
–Care of mildly ill campers: Ill campers will be assessed by the camp nurse. If deemed necessary, the camper will stay for observation in the nursing facility allowing them time for rest and proper supervision
–Care of seriously ill/injured campers: Camper may be transported to the hospital or requested to have a parent pick up ill/injured camper depending on severity.
–Parents have the right to review and request policy information in regard to background checks, healthcare and the filing of grievances.
–A Telephone will be available for calls home if needed.
–Expensive personal items are not permitted, there is a possibility they may be lost or stolen. We do not recommend you bring these items to camp. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items.
–The Snack Shack: All snacks and beverages either brought or purchased will be distributed at the end of dinner.
$5-$10 is sufficient spending money for the week
If you have any questions, feel free to call the business office 413-684-0125.
You may reach the camp director during camp sessions – 413-362-5064
The nurse on duty may be reached through the Camp Director
Camp Holy Cross is committed to hiring and training the best talent to assist our young campers in having a safe and fun camp experience while they are in our care. Our Camp Counselors provide an important service, have fun, learn, and make friends that last a lifetime.
We are anticipating over 100 participants per session. Staff will be as large as 30 counselors. Staff members will be required to be good role models, lead a cabin unit, organize and run camp activities, and exercise fair discipline.
Our camp counselors are carefully screened and chosen to ensure the best possible care for our campers.
Positions
~Senior counselors (age 18+)
~Junior counselors (age 16-17)
~Lifeguards (age 16+)
~We also recruit kitchen staff, maintenance personnel, and nursing personnel.
Senior Counselors
Junior counselors
Lifeguards
A Letter to Potential Staff Members
Potential Staff Members,
As the administration of Camp Holy Cross, please let us share some of our thoughts on camp counseling with you. We would ask that you read through these comments carefully, and we request that you prayerfully consider the decision to work at Camp Holy Cross before contacting us for further information.
Camp counseling is a job for responsible people only. Many young adults enter summer camp work with the idea that it will be a two-week vacation. This is far from true. Camp counseling is for quality people who love children and will place their interests ahead of self in every instance. Camp counselors should consider their job a chance to serve youth as well as an opportunity for personal development.
Helping children is a serious task. Most parents send their child to camp because they know the strong influence of a good camp can have a positive and lasting effect on their life. Camp Holy Cross accepts parent’s trust with deep concern and responsibility. The administration cannot accept the responsibility alone. We employ the best young adults we can find to share this responsibility with us.
At Camp Holy Cross we also feel a very keen sense of responsibility for the spiritual growth of our campers. We believe in a pattern of living exemplified by Christ, God’s Son. We believe that “life-style evangelism” through our staff members is Camp Holy Cross’s most active means of following Christ’s example and communicating our beliefs. We support having fun in a chemical free environment; the use of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are prohibited. The use of profanity is also prohibited. We believe in traditional Christian values that do not violate God’s word and our intent is to honor His word.
The camp staff must set the best example possible. Youth are impressionable so the camp environment must be strong, clean, and wholesome. Campers are under the influence of the camp and its staff 24 hours a day. This is a great challenge. Are you willing to accept your share?
As you can see, camp counseling is a serious business. Honestly, it will be one of the hardest jobs you will ever do and also the most rewarding. It is an inspirational and educational experience. If you think you might be further interested in summer employment at Camp Holy Cross, please complete the application and return it to us. The application requires spending some time in thought! We pride ourselves in hiring a staff that believes in giving 100% when it comes to taking care of children.
With thanks,
The Administrative Team
Steps to Apply
- Complete an application form online (using CampDoc).
- Be sure to fill out entire form. Indicate weeks available. References need complete contact information. Incomplete app will be rejected.
- Complete a CORI/SORI Authorization Form & Provide Picture ID.
- Send Link to references or download form for paper copy.
- Upload a Digital Photo on Camp Doc.
- Parent Permission Form (Must be signed by parent if under age 18)
After acceptance:
- You must complete an on-line health history and provide necessary health related information.
- All staff will have to attend Camp Orientation/Training & Child Safety Training.
- Complete VIRTUS Training https://www.virtusonline.org/virtus/reg_2.cfm?theme=0&org=37495
- All Staff must participate in Staff Orientation and Training which will include Red Cross First Aid & CPR Training.
- A minimum stipend of $125 per session will be paid. A bonus of $50 for senior counselors will be offered. An additional $25 per session is paid for lifeguards.
Who, What, Where?
CAMP PHILOSOPHY
The purpose of our camp is to provide a Christian educational experience in outdoor living. Our programs are oriented to the Roman Catholic philosophy of outdoor ministry, which shall encompass recreation for young people, shall be ecologically sound and shall be geared toward developing a greater sense of the presence of God in one’s life. For this reason, all our counselors and volunteers of the camp put the health and safety of the campers in the forefront at all times.WHO WORKS AT CAMP HOLY CROSS
Fr. Chris Malatesta is the Executive Director of Holy Cross Campgrounds, Justin Brown is the Director of CHC and Fr. David Auffiero, Chaplain are assisted by a mature staff of high school & college students and adults who provide a creative camping program designed to meet the individual needs of each camper. Our enthusiastic staff supervise the campers in their living quarters and motivate them as they proceed through our fun-filled program. The campers are grouped by division of age. A strong emphasis is placed on safety. Our staff’s goal is to make a young camper feel more secure, and encourage trust and confidence while providing a rewarding summer camp experience.Janine Modestow
Janine Modestow has been an educator for almost 28 years, teaching middle and high school English in Arizona; Sturbridge, MA; and the Hilltowns before settling down at Westfield High. A certified lifeguard from the age of sixteen until two years ago, she also has been a certified Water Safety Instructor and Waterfront Director. She also has coached soccer, basketball, and softball at all levels from elementary to high school varsity, serving one year as a high school athletic director. Modestow is a member of Our Lady of the Hills Parish where she teaches 8th grade CCD.
A former soccer player for Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she earned her B.S. in Computer Science with a double major in English, she now enjoys Nordic skiing, biking, hiking, and swimming.
Modestow has trained counselors at Camp Holy Cross for the past fourteen years. The highest compliment she can give to the camp is the fact that her own eleven-year-old daughter has attended both weeks of the camp since the moment she was eligible to sign up.
LOCATION
Camp Holy Cross has been a facility in the Diocese of Springfield since 1930 and contains over 250 acres of woods and fields situated on the beautiful Upper Highland Reservoir in the Berkshire Hills. It is located on Route 112 North (one mile off route 9) in Goshen, MA.
CAMP HOLY CROSS OFFERS A FUN AND EXCITING PROGRAM
Campers can enjoy healthy competition with each other while learning teamwork and new skills.
Recreation: ~Baseball ~Basketball ~Dodge Ball ~Kick Ball ~Ping-Pong ~Soccer ~Softball ~Volleyball ~ Wiffle Ball ~Game Room ~Field Games ~Slip-and-Slide ~Tie-Dying
Water Fun: ~Swimming ~Kayaking ~Canoeing ~Water Polo ~Red Cross Certified Waterfront Staff
Camp-Wide Events: ~CHC Olympics ~Hiking ~Games ~Capture the Flag ~Cook-outs ~Dances ~Campfires ~Movie Nights
Special Activities: In addition to sports and aquatics, we encourage the arts through crafts and talent development programs. There is a little something for everyone to try and enjoy.
Faith Based Activities: Daily prayer and faith based exercises will be part of the daily routine. Special activities include a Christmas in July celebration, with a late night Mass.