January Chanco Chatter

In This Issue:

VA Living Best of Contest

Welcome to our New Director of Programs
Volunteer Weekend

Creation Reveals its Creator

Spring Open House

Chanco 5K Adventure Race

Wilderness Warriors

Summer Camp Registration

Now Hiring Summer Staff

Vote for Chanco as 'VA's Best Summer Camp'
Voting ends THIS Saturday, Jan 31!

Time is running out! Chanco on the James has been nominated for Virginia Living’s Best of Contest as Best Overnight Summer Camp, and voting closes THIS Saturday. Every single vote counts — and yours could make the difference!

For generations, Chanco has been a place where faith, fellowship, and adventure come together. From sailing on the James and zip lining through the trees to moments of reflection, laughter, and lifelong friendships, Chanco exists to create meaningful experiences that shape lives. None of this would be possible without the incredible community that believes in and supports our mission.

With just days left to vote, your support matters more than ever. Your vote helps us continue offering a place where campers grow in confidence, connection, and joy — and where community truly feels like family.

How to Vote (before Saturday):

Click the button below or scan the QR code
In the search field, type “Chanco on the James”
Select “Chanco on the James” when it appears
Click “Submit Vote”
Register your email to confirm your vote

That’s it — quick, easy, and incredibly impactful.

Thank you for being part of the Chanco story and for helping us continue this mission of fellowship, adventure, and community. Don’t wait — voting ends on the 31.

Cast your vote for Chanco on the James today!

VOTE FOR CHANCO

Cameron Ballinger Returns to Camp Chanco
as Director of Programs

Camp Chanco on the James is excited to announce the appointment of Cameron Ballinger as its new Director of Programs

Ballinger brings a unique perspective to the role, having grown up with the camp and progressed through nearly every level of the Chanco experience.

Cameron's journey with Camp Chanco began at age eight as a nervous first-time camper. That initial summer sparked a connection that brought him back year after year, eventually leading him to serve in multiple staff positions including Walk Around Counselor, Activities Director, Aquatics Director, and Projects Lead.

"I've learned from the best at Chanco and hope to build on that knowledge," Ballinger said. "Reflecting God's love is always the goal in the deepest part of my heart."

A recent graduate of Roanoke College with a degree in Social Studies Education and an exploration in Religion, Ballinger brings both educational credentials and outdoor expertise to his new position. He is an Eagle Scout who has remained active in Scouting through the Sea Scouts program, and competed in cross country at both the high school and collegiate levels.

Ballinger's appointment reflects our commitment to leadership that understands Chanco's mission and our core values of friendship, spirit, and love. His diverse background in outdoor education, youth development, and faith formation aligns with our focus on spiritual growth and outdoor adventure.

In his new role, Cameron will oversee all camp programming and continue building on Chanco's decades-long tradition of providing transformative summer experiences for young people in the Episcopal Diocese.

Ballinger looks forward to welcoming campers, both new and returning, to Camp Chanco in 2026. He shares, "Reflecting God’s love is always the goal in the deepest part of my heart. I’ve learned from the best at Chanco and hope to build on that knowledge. Thank you to the Diocese, to Gareth, to my priest Grant, and to everyone who has helped prepare me for this new role. I can’t wait to see you all in 2026!"

Volunteer Weekend
February 27–March 1

Summer Camp is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get Chanco ready for an incredible season ahead!

We invite you to join us for Chanco’s Volunteer Weekend, a time-honored tradition where friends, families, and supporters come together to make a real, lasting impact on camp.

What to Expect

We’ll be working on-site from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM with a lunch break built in. Volunteers can register for one day or the full weekend, and meals will be provided. Whether you’re handy with tools or just eager to experience fellowship and give back to the community, there’s a project for everyone.

Weekend Priorities

• General carpentry, trail work, and painting

Arrival Details

• Overnight guests may arrive any time after dinner on Friday night

• Day-only volunteers should plan to arrive at 9:00 AM on Saturday

Come on your own or bring the whole family—all are welcome. Volunteer Weekend is more than just getting projects done; it’s about community, shared purpose, and investing in the magic of Chanco for future generations to come.

Your time and effort truly make a difference, and we’d love to have you be part of this meaningful weekend. We can’t wait to work alongside you as we prepare Chanco for another unforgettable summer.

Download the Event Flyer – Portrait

Download the Event Flyer – Landscape

Creation Reveals its Creator
March 13–14

Join us on March 13-14 for a creation care retreat at Chanco on the James. Our presenters will be individuals who are passionate about creation and its care and invite you to engage in the conversation as we explore God's creation and how we can be good stewards of mother earth. Presenters will include members of our diocesan creation care team and local community organizations.

Come learn about the theology of creation care, how to put creation care into practice in your own life, listen to a panel discussion, and join us in worship.

Music will be performed by Kevin Brown, Chief of the Pamunkey Indian Tribe.

Time is built into the schedule to enjoy Chanco's beautiful property on the James River, pray the stations of the cross, walk the labyrinth, or sit and make your own walking stick.

Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

Please contact Cameron at programs@chanco.org or call us at 888-7CHANCO (724-2626) with any questions.

View the preliminary schedule here.

Spring Open House
Sunday, March 15 from 1–4PM

Discover the magic of summer at Chanco’s 2026 Spring Open House!

Summer Camp Registration is officially open—and there’s no better way to experience the spirit of Chanco than at our 2026 Spring Open House. This fun-filled day is your chance to step onto campgrounds where unforgettable memories are made, confidence is built, and lifelong friendships begin.

Bring the whole family and explore everything that makes Chanco a favorite summer destination year after year. Guests will enjoy guided tours of our beautiful campsites, soar through the trees on our zip line, and take part in hands-on activities at the open-air Perry Family Pavilion. You’ll get a true taste of camp life—right down to a delicious cookout lunch, because no great camp day is complete without good food.

While you’re here, meet our incredible counselors, ask questions, and get one-on-one help with summer camp registration. Whether your child is brand new to camp or returning for another unforgettable season, our team will help you find the perfect fit so they don’t miss a minute of summer fun.

Open House Activities Include:

Hayrides through camp
Zip lining adventures
Face painting
Guided campsite tours
Archery
Delicious camp food

Want to slow down and explore the campground at your own leisure? Families are welcome to explore the waterfront and nature trails at their own pace, soaking in the natural beauty that makes Chanco such a special place.

If you’ve been wondering what summer camp at Chanco is all about, this is your moment to see it, feel it, and experience it for yourself.

For more information, contact Cameron at programs@chanco.org or call 888-7-CHANCO (888-724-2626).

Join us at the Spring Open House and take the first step toward an unforgettable summer.

Chanco 5K Adventure Race
Saturday, March 21 at 9AM

Get ready for a race that’s anything but ordinary.

Join us on Saturday, March 21, 2026, for the Chanco on the James 5K Adventure Race, a Colonial Road Runners–timed event set on the stunning grounds of Chanco on the James. This challenging trail course winds through scenic woods and along the shoreline of the James River—perfect for runners and walkers looking for a unique race-day experience.

Race Day Details

• Saturday, March 21, 2026

• Race Start: 9:00 AM

• Start Location: Davenport Spirit Center at Chanco on the James

• Packet Pick-Up & Registration: 7:30–8:30 AM

Registration

• Online: $35 (open January 13 at noon through March 19 at noon EDT)

• Race Day: $40

Age Groups

19-and-under, then 10-year age groups through 70-and-over.

Whether you’re chasing a PR or soaking in the scenery, the Chanco 5K Adventure Race promises fresh air, river views, and a rewarding challenge.

DOWNLOAD THE EVENT FLYER

Wilderness Warriors

Weekends in March

Are you looking for another opportunity to enjoy your favorite camp activities and spend a bit more time at Chanco? If you didn't know, Chanco proudly hosts the Wilderness Warriors every spring and fall, and we are thrilled to share it's that time of year again!

The Wilderness Warriors mission is to provide youth with impactful experiences that are shared with male role models in their life, resulting in strengthened bonds and lifelong memories. Campers will experience this mission here at Chanco through outdoor activities such as canoeing, archery, zip lining, obstacles courses and more.

If this sounds like fun for you or someone you know, contact the Wilderness Warriors today. You can read more about the Wilderness Warriors and their mission at www.wildernesswarriors.org or to get information about upcoming weekends this March, email info@wildernesswarriors.org.

LEARN MORE

Calling All Adventurers

Summer is right around the corner and you know what that means... it’s almost time for Camp Chanco!

For more than 50 years, Chanco has offered a fun, faith-centered, and unforgettable summer camp experience for youth ages 8–16. From high ropes courses and zip lines to sailing on the James River, archery, arts and crafts, and nature activities, there’s something for every camper to enjoy.

Every day at Chanco includes meaningful opportunities for:

Making new friends and building confidence
Exploring God’s creation in a beautiful outdoor setting
Trying new skills and challenging adventures
Growing in community and Christian fellowship

Whether your camper is ready for classic camp fun or seeking new adventures, Chanco has a session that’s just right. Our summer camp sessions include traditional residential weeks, specialty options like Mariners', Adventure Camp, and more — all designed to give campers a safe, engaging, and memory-making summer.

We can’t wait to welcome your camper to a summer of fellowship, faith, and fun at Chanco on the James!

Join Chanco's Summer Staff

Summer starts here. Chanco on the James is now hiring Summer 2026 staff. We’re looking for passionate, energetic people ready to make an impact — is that you?!

Open positions include:

Camp Counselors
Lifeguards
Ropes Staff
Media Specialist
Interns

As a Chanco staff member, you’ll build leadership, communication, and teamwork skills while growing as a servant leader in a supportive Christian community. You’ll spend your summer sailing, zip lining, hiking, and creating unforgettable moments — all while making a lasting difference in the lives of campers.

All positions are paid bi-weekly and include housing and meals for the summer. Many roles can also qualify for college internship credit.

If you’re looking for a meaningful summer, lifelong friendships, and personal and professional growth, Camp Chanco is the place to be.

Interested? Apply today!

APPLY TODAY

Upcoming Events

2026

February 27–March 1 Spring Work Weekend

Weekends in March Wilderness Warriors

March 13–14 Creation Reveals its Creator

March 15 Spring Open House

March 21 Chanco's 5K Adventure Run

May 1–3 Spring EYC Weekend

May 6 Third Annual Big Day of Giving

May 14–17 Cursillo #176

September 20 Fall Open House

September 25–27 Fall Work Weekend

Weekends in October Wilderness Warriors

October 1–4 Cursillo #177

October 23–25 Food for the Soul

October 23–25 Alumni Weekend

October 30–November 1 Diocesan College Retreat

November 6–8 Fall EYC Weekend

December 4–5 Advent Retreat

Learn more & register at:

chanco.org/events

2026 Camp Dates & Rates

Secure your spot today.

Choose Tier 1 to give back to our beloved Chanco, or choose Tier 2 for a subsidized cost — no matter your choice, your camper will receive the same incredible experience!