Overview
At the heart of SYANA is our week-long Gurmat camp, bringing together Sikh youth across North America to create a Guru-inspired environment. For over 40 years, our youngest Panth members have been immersed in Keertan, Paath, Gurmat, History, Gatka and the enriching experience of Guru-oriented Sangat.
SYANA has been dedicated to preserving our Sikh heritage and empowering our youth through this annual Gurmat Camp. In collectively working towards this goal, campers form relationships and Sangat that lasts a lifetime.
Situated at Camp Copneconic in Fenton, MI, amidst 750 wooded acres around Lake Copneconic, our camp offers a serene, natural atmosphere, as well as enjoyable experiences, including high ropes courses, archery, ziplines and water activities. Dorm-like accommodations will help make sure our campers are comfortable throughout their stay.
Join us for a week of Sikhi-inspired fun and learning, where veteran and new campers alike make unforgettable memories.
Registration Process
Given the incredible demand for camp slots, we’ve adopted a lottery system to ensure fairness and inclusivity. This change comes after significant feedback highlighting the stress of the previous first-come, first-served registration process. Our goal is to provide every interested family with an equal opportunity to secure a place at the camp, reinforcing our community values of equality and accessibility.
How It Works
A Google Form will be sent out to collect names and contact information of those interested in attending.
Submit the completed form (one per family).
The lottery will be conducted shortly after, and families will be informed of the outcome. If selected, you will be able to register for camp.
This system aims to enhance accessibility and fairness, ensuring as many children as possible can experience the joys and lessons of our Gurmat Camp.
FAQs
What are the dates for SYANA Gurmat Camp 2024?
Sunday, June 30, 2024, to Saturday, July 6, 2024.
Where is SYANA Gurmat Camp being held?
SYANA Gurmat Camp is held at YMCA Camp Copneconic, 10407 North Fenton Road, Fenton Twp, MI 48430.
What are the registration fees and what do they cover?
Registration fees are $350 USD and cover lodging, activities, camp t-shirt, food, and awards. SYANA attempts to make programming available to as many children as possible, and the fees are set at below cost. If financial assistance is needed, please contact info@sikhyouthalliance.org.
What should I bring to camp?
- Clothes for one week – Long pants need to be worn during divaan so please plan accordingly
- Jacket or sweater Swimsuit or swimming trunks (There is a lake and swimming activities are available at camp)
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
- Turban/putka/chunni/scarf (All campers will need to keep their head covered throughout the day. All boys will need to tie a turban/dastaar each day; please bring one appropriately sized for their head)
- Prescription medicines – if needed (All medicines will be handed over to the camp doctors for the duration of the camp)
- Sneakers Rainboots (Parts of the camp have dirt trails, and in rain can become muddy)
- Bed sheets, blanket (or sleeping bag), and pillow
- Towels (bath and hand)
- Laundry bag
- Tissues
- Flashlight
- Pencil, pen, and notebook
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
No candy, gum or snacks are allowed. Also – cell phones, tablets and other electronic devices are not allowed during classes and workshops.
What should I do if I’m flying to camp?
Please fill out the travel form by June 15th. Book flights into Flint, MI (FNT) or Detroit, MI (DTW) to arrive on the morning of June 30th and depart in the late afternoon/evening of July 6th.
When should I arrive at camp?
Registration and arrival are from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM on Sunday, June 30th.
When should I pick up my child?
Pick up is on Saturday, July 6th. The final day program will run between 9 a.m and 11:30 am. We advise parents to leave after the program has ended and lunch is served, around 12 PM.
How do I contact my child during camp?
We recommend you only attempt to contact your child during meal and break times as they will not have cell phones available to them during class. The best contact number to reach a Sevaadaar during camp is Inderpal Singh at (847) – 226 – 0690 or Mandeep Singh (314) – 537 – 5669. Please be sure to review the updated cell phone policy. (link to https://drive.google.com/file/d/18UaE5d8I9Ay9KWO2NqC-OtBT4GNUCW7V/view)
Can I visit my child during camp?
Visitors are not allowed throughout the duration of the camp due to campsite restrictions.
Who should I contact if I still have questions?
Email us at info@sikhyouthalliance.org or drop us a message on Instagram at @syalliance.