Thanksgiving Gratitude and the Spirit of Community: Reflecting on Our Turkey Bowl Event
As we enter this season of Thanksgiving, we’re reminded of the power of gratitude, community, and purpose—values that lie at the heart of everything we do at Camp Winaukee. Whether you’re reflecting on the year gone by or gathering with loved ones to celebrate the holidays, there’s something special about taking the time to pause, appreciate, and give thanks for the people and moments that make life meaningful.
This year, we were fortunate to kick off the Thanksgiving holiday with our annual community Turkey Bowl, a fun event that brought together campers and families for a fun-filled day of football, food trucks, and camaraderie. Held on November 17 in New Rochelle, New York, the Turkey Bowl was more than just a game—it was a powerful reminder of the strength of our camp community and the joy that comes from sharing time together in the spirit of fun and sportsmanship.
Gathering Purpose and Intention
At Camp Winaukee, we are always looking for ways to bring our community together—whether it’s during the summer or throughout the year. The Turkey Bowl was not only an opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces but also a chance to kick off the holiday season with purpose and intention. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be easy to forget the simple things that matter most: community, connection, and shared experiences. The Turkey Bowl was our way of reminding ourselves that these values are worth celebrating, especially as we look ahead to a time of family gatherings, reflection, and gratitude.
A Day of Sportsmanship and Fun
The Turkey Bowl was a true reflection of the spirit of sportsmanship that defines our camp. Teams were made up of campers, friends and siblings, all of whom came together to compete, laugh, and enjoy the game. There was no shortage of energy on the field as players of all ages showed off their athleticism, teamwork, and good-natured rivalry. What stood out most, however, was the sense of camaraderie and support that filled the air. Whether cheering on teammates or offering encouragement to the opposing side, the Turkey Bowl was a reminder that sportsmanship isn’t just about winning—it’s about showing respect, having fun, and celebrating the effort that goes into every play.
Beyond flag football, the event was a chance for everyone to gather, share stories, and enjoy being together outside the summer camp setting. There was something truly special about seeing our camp community unite in person, forging new memories and rekindling old friendships.
Gratitude for Our Camp Community
As we look forward to Thanksgiving, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible community that has grown at Camp Winaukee over the years. Our campers, staff, alumni, and families create a network of support, encouragement, and shared values that extends far beyond the summer months. Events like the Turkey Bowl serve as a reminder of the lasting impact we have on one another—how we uplift, challenge, and inspire each other, not just on the field, but in all aspects of life.
This Thanksgiving, we are grateful for the many ways our camp community continues to grow and thrive. From the campers who return year after year to the staff members who dedicate themselves to making each summer unforgettable, we are honored to be part of such a vibrant and supportive family. We are also deeply thankful for the families who trust us to care for their children and who join us in supporting the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth.
Looking Ahead with Purpose
As we reflect on the Turkey Bowl and all that we have to be thankful for, we are also filled with excitement for what lies ahead. The spirit of the Turkey Bowl—full of enthusiasm, community, and celebration—is exactly what we aim to carry with us as we head into the upcoming year. We are already looking forward to next summer, to new campers and returning faces, and to continuing to build a camp experience that focuses on community, growth, and, of course, plenty of fun.
This Thanksgiving, we encourage everyone in the Winaukee community to take a moment to appreciate the people around you, the memories you’ve created, and the values that unite us. Whether you’re celebrating with family or reflecting quietly on what you’re grateful for, we hope the spirit of gratitude fills your heart.
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Camp Winaukee. We are so thankful for each and every one of you. See you next summer—and until then, keep the spirit of community alive, both on and off the field!
P.S. If you missed the Turkey Bowl, don’t worry! We’ll be hosting more community events throughout the year. Stay tuned for more updates, and we can’t wait to see you at our next gathering!
