Public Information Office 210 S. McDonald Street Suite 626 McKinney, Texas 75069 www.collincountytx.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 3, 2006

Collin County leaders and YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas unveil the Collin County Adventure Camp

(McKinney, TX) – The Collin County Commissioners Court, Camp Advisory Board, YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas, educators and students unveiled the Collin County Adventure Camp today as part of a dedication ceremony. The estimated $26 million facility was approved by voters in a 2001 bond election. Shortly thereafter, the Collin County Commissioners Court appointed a camp advisory board to oversee facility construction and development.

“After years of monthly meetings, planning sessions and discussions with developers, it brings great joy to see plans for this wonderful camp finally come together,” says Dr. Joe Farmer, chairman of the Collin County Camp Advisory Board. “It has been an honor working with the camp advisory board and Collin County staff. It was because of their dedicated efforts that this project has come to fruition.”

Planning and support activities for the camp began more than a decade ago. In September 2001, voters approved the bonds specifically for the purchase of land and the construction of the camp. A groundbreaking was held in 2003.

“This project is like no other project the county has undertaken,” says Collin County Commissioner Jerry Hoagland. “We saw urban areas growing at a tremendous rate in the county and wanted to provide students with the same outdoor experiences we had when we were children.”

While the land, housing, utilities, roads, buildings, education facilities, equipment and site work are all being taken care of by the county, the YMCA will manage the camp.

“We are thrilled to be part of this great partnership with Collin County that extends the impact of the YMCA to more kids in Collin County and surrounding areas.” says Gordon Echtenkamp, President/CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas. “Teaching outdoor education is another wonderful platform to help children learn the importance building character such as respect, responsibility, citizenship, caring fairness and trustworthiness.”

During the regular school year, the camp is utilized by the school districts with weeklong programs and day camps. During the summer, the YMCA will offer programs. And, the public will be able to utilize the facility on weekends for such events as family reunions or retreats.

“This project has brought unique teams of people together,” says Collin County Judge Ron Harris. “County government, community volunteers and the YMCA have had an opportunity to develop a rewarding outdoor educational experience.”

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