Camp Thunderbird

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Wes Climer

The bill grants ceremonial recognition to YMCA Camp Thunderbird and designates August 28, 2026 as Camp Thunderbird Day in South Carolina.

Introduced and adopted

Summary of Bill S 1196 (2025-2026) – Camp Thunderbird

Purpose

A Senate resolution recognizing YMCA Camp Thunderbird on its 90th anniversary and designating August 28, 2026, as Camp Thunderbird Day in South Carolina.

Purpose is ceremonial honors and public acknowledgement of the camp’s history, community impact, and ongoing mission.

Key Provisions

Congratulatory recognition: The South Carolina Senate commends YMCA Camp Thunderbird for reaching its ninetieth anniversary (founded 1936 as Observer Fresh Air Camp; reaffiliated with YMCA in 1946).

Proclamation of Camp Thunderbird Day: Official designation of August 28, 2026, as Camp Thunderbird Day in South Carolina.

Presentation stipulation: A copy of the resolution will be presented to YMCA Camp Thunderbird leadership.

Who/What is Affected

YMCA Camp Thunderbird and its leadership receive formal recognition from the South Carolina Senate.

The broader public in South Carolina is informed of the camp’s historical contribution to youth development, access, and outdoor education.

Background Details Highlighted in the Resolution

Founding and mission: Established 1936 to provide access to nature, fresh air, and community for children regardless of circumstance.

History of leadership: Camp placed under the YMCA of Greater Charlotte in 1946, reinforcing youth development and inclusive access.

Social impact data cited:

Serves thousands of campers and students through various programs (over 80,000 overnight campers, 50,000 day campers, 400,000+ students through environmental education).
Access and equity: More than 28,000 scholarships awarded to enable participation regardless of background.
Leadership development: Counselor in Training (CIT) program has prepared nearly 3,000 teens over its history.

Longevity and tradition: Emphasizes enduring impact across generations and adaptability through economic, public health, and societal changes.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Status: Introduced and adopted on May 14, 2026.

Official action: A Senate resolution, non-binding, serves to recognize and honor rather than enact law.

Sponsor: Co-sponsor Wes Climer.

Next steps: Resolution is prepared for presentation to YMCA Camp Thunderbird leadership; no fiscal provisions or regulatory changes are contemplated.

Potential Impact

Ceremonial recognition may enhance public awareness of Camp Thunderbird’s contributions to youth, education, and community service.

Could positively influence public support, volunteer engagement, and fundraising by highlighting a long-standing record of scholarship provision and youth development.

No changes to statutes, funding, or regulatory obligations are included in the resolution.