February Chanco Chatter

In This Issue:

Chanco Summer Camp

Now Hiring Summer Staff

Volunteer Weekend

Creation Reveals Its Creator

Spring Open House

Chanco's 5K Adventure Run

EYC Spring Weekend

Something BIG is Coming

Chanco Summer Camp

Summer starts at Camp Chanco!

Summer is almost here, and Camp Chanco is ready for another unforgettable season on the James. For more than 50 years, Chanco has offered a fun, faith-centered camp experience for youth ages 8–16.

From zip lines and high ropes to sailing, archery, arts and crafts, and outdoor adventures, every day is filled with opportunities to try something new.

At Chanco, campers build confidence, form lasting friendships, explore God’s creation, and grow in Christian community — all in a safe and welcoming environment. Whether your camper chooses a traditional residential week or a specialty session like Mariners’ or Adventure Camp, there’s a perfect fit waiting.

Give your camper a summer of faith, friendship, and adventure — we can’t wait to welcome you to Camp Chanco.

Join Our Summer Staff

Summer is calling!

Chanco on the James is now hiring staff for our summer season, and we’re looking for enthusiastic, dedicated people who are ready to make a difference. Could that be you?

Now hiring for the following roles:

Camp Counselors
Lifeguards
Ropes Staff
Media Specialist
Interns

As a member of the Chanco staff, you’ll grow as a servant leader while developing leadership, communication, and teamwork skills — all within a supportive Christian community. Your days will be filled with sailing, zip lining, hiking, and creating unforgettable experiences, all while making a lasting impact on the lives of campers.

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

If you’re seeking a meaningful summer, lifelong friendships, and opportunities for both personal and professional growth, Camp Chanco is the place for you.

Ready to take the next step? Apply today.

APPLY TODAY

Volunteer Weekend
February 27–March 1

We invite you to be part of Chanco’s Volunteer Weekend happening THIS weekend — a beloved tradition where friends, families, and supporters gather to lend a hand and make a meaningful, lasting difference around camp.

What to Expect

Volunteer work will take place on-site from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM each day, with a lunch break included. You’re welcome to sign up for one day or the entire weekend, and meals will be provided. Whether you’re skilled with tools or simply excited to serve and connect, there’s a place for everyone.

Weekend Priorities

• General carpentry

• Trail work

• Painting

Arrival Details

• Overnight volunteers may arrive anytime after dinner on Friday evening

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

Come solo or bring the whole family — all are welcome! Volunteer Weekend is about more than completing projects; it’s a time of community, shared purpose, and investing in the future of Chanco for generations to come.

Your time and effort truly make a difference, and we’d love for you to join us. We can’t wait to work alongside you as we get Chanco ready 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

Experience the magic of summer at Chanco during our Open House!

Summer Camp Registration is officially open, and there’s no better way to get a feel for Chanco than by joining us for this exciting, family-friendly day. Step onto the campgrounds where memories are made, confidence grows, and lifelong friendships begin.

Bring the whole family and discover what makes Chanco a favorite summer destination year after year. Guests will enjoy guided tours of our beautiful campsites, fly through the trees on our zip line, and participate in hands-on activities at the open-air Perry Family Pavilion. You’ll get an authentic taste of camp life — complete with a delicious cookout lunch, because great food is always part of a great camp day.

During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to meet our amazing counselors, ask questions, and receive one-on-one assistance with summer camp registration. Whether your child is attending for the first time or returning for another unforgettable summer, our team is here to help you find the perfect fit.

Open House Activities Include:

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

Families who prefer a slower pace are welcome to explore the waterfront and nature trails at their leisure, taking in the natural beauty that makes Chanco such a special place.

If you’ve been curious about what summer camp at Chanco is really like, this is your chance to see it, feel it, and experience it firsthand.

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

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

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 personal record or taking in the scenery, the Chanco 5K Adventure Race promises to deliver fresh air, beautiful river views, and a challenge worth the effort.

DOWNLOAD THE EVENT FLYER

EYC Spring Weekend 2026

Friday, May 1 – Sunday, May 3

Spring Weekend is an opportunity to connect with friends old and new from across the Diocese and to spend time in retreat with God at Chanco on the James.

Youth in grades 6 through 12 (and their adult leaders) are invited to join us for a weekend of fun and fellowship as we explore what it means that Christ is our Cornerstone, and He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Participants will be staying in the summer camp lodgings and will have an opportunity to not only grow in their faith and develop community but also take advantage of some of the activities at Chanco.

Spring Weekend will be filled with fellowship, fun, spiritual growth and music and it all happens at Chanco!

Registration is open until Monday, April 20.

Something BIG is Coming
Wednesday, May 6

There’s a special day on the horizon for the Chanco community.

A day about stories. About impact. About the moments that begin with “Because of Chanco…”

Mark your calendar. Our 3rd Annual Big Day of Giving is coming up on May 6, and you're invited to participate!

More details coming soon – stay tuned!

Upcoming Events

2026

February 27–March 1 Volunteer 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!