YMCA completes expansion of Camp Cory

Listen to this article

The YMCA of Greater Rochester has completed its first major expansion at Camp Lawrence Cory in nearly a century.

The first phase of a multiyear project, the Camp Cory expansion doubles the day camp capacity, giving the Y the ability to positively impact more children and increase its reach into the communities near Keuka Lake, officials said.

“The YMCA is about service, to our communities and to our youth,” YMCA President and CEO George Romell said in a statement. “As the largest provider of camp experiences in the Rochester and Finger lakes region, it is important we invest in this picturesque and history-rich camp to ensure we are here for generations to come.”

Projects completed within the first phase of the $5 million project include renovation of the junior and senior boathouses, accessible waterfront restroom facilities, relocation of the archery field, construction of the day camp pavilion, design and planting of a community garden and completion of the centerpiece project—a 40-foot by 80-foot program barn with restrooms, camp offices and an infirmary.

Renovation of the original Camp Cory infirmary was necessary due to increased enrollment and the need to employ two full-time medical professionals. YMCA’s recently announced system-wide partnership with University of Rochester Medicine will add telemedicine services to the camp.

Founded in 1921, and one of two local YMCA overnight camps, Camp Cory’s expansion to the existing 30-acre property will increase evening and weekend recreation opportunities for more than 1,600 campers each summer.

Funding for the first phase of renovations has come from alumni, donors, the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York and the Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council. More than half of the necessary funding has been secured, officials said. YMCA plans to continue raising funds for the project until Camp Cory’s centennial in 2021.

YMCA also announced that it has become an affiliate member of the Armed Services YMCA. The partnership will enable Camp Cory to provide more opportunities for children of active, fallen, wounded and disabled military.

In addition to the first phase projects, students from Finger Lakes Technical & Career Center of Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES helped restore a 1946 truck that resembles the “Proud Mary” truck that was a mainstay of Camp Cory decades ago. The Pike Co. also was involved in the truck’s restoration.

“For nearly a century, children have gathered to experience life-changing moments only camp can provide,” said YMCA Vice President of Advancement Mike Stevens. “Generations of families have enjoyed all Cory has to offer, and through this project, we get the opportunity to bring that experience to even more children.”

[email protected] / 585-653-4021

Follow Velvet Spicer on Twitter: @Velvet_Spicer