Friends of Camp Soles, Inc.
134 Camp Soles Lane
Rockwood, Pa. 15557
For Immediate Release “ANNOUNCEMENTS”
Contact:
Susan Fletcher
Friends of Camp Soles, Inc.
(412) 417-3968
Dupré
Buys
Camp Soles, Will Open This Summer
(Rockwood, Pa.) April 2, 2021
— Gretl Dupre’ Galgon always felt Camp Soles was her “home away from home”. So much so in fact that she stepped in to purchase the camp from The YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh. “Much of my childhood was spent at Camp Soles,” Gretl says. “Those summers of singing around the campfire, swimming in the lake with sisters, learning archery, and making friends from all backgrounds, have truly sustained me throughout my lifetime.”
Friends of Camp Soles, Inc. (FoCS), the non-profit group in charge of the facility’s day-to-day operations, has announced that the overnight camp will host campers for its summer 2021 sessions while following CDC Covid-19 guidelines.
“We are thrilled that our angel investor —new owner and former camper, Gretl Dupre’ Galgon, Director of Souls of Soles LLC.—has stepped in to ensure that future generations of campers will be able to enjoy the natural beauty and long-term friendships that are a part of camp life,” says Susan Fletcher, FoCS Board President and herself a former camper and Director.
If the Dupre’ name rings a bell, it should. Herman Dupre,’ along with his wife, Sis, transformed their family’s farm and lodge into the world-class attraction, Seven Springs Mountain Resort. “It feels appropriate to honor my late Dad’s legacy of welcoming everyone to the mountains. Herman believed in warm hospitality, hard work, giving more than taking, and staying around to help do the dishes, because that is when the fun happens”. Herman and Sis have nine daughters, all of whom attended Camp Soles. “Our mom thought it was an essential part of growing up. It was important to learn self-reliance, outdoor camping skills, and team building, not to mention, it likely gave her a very welcomed break. “Camp Soles is in our Souls, (hence the name of the LLC.); it should remain open and thriving for everyone’s benefit.”
A Laurel Highlands staple since its founding in 1955, Camp (T. Frank) Soles was named after McKeesport, Pa. businessman T. Frank Soles who originally donated the property to the McKeesport YMCA, the camp opened in 1955. Located in the Laurel Highlands of southwestern Pennsylvania, Camp Soles boasts 200 acres, a 17 acre man-made lake, nine full-sized cabins, an historic dining hall, and can accommodate nearly 200 people per session.
Camp Soles / Add 1
Gretl has always felt Camp Soles to be a place of outdoor play. She attended family camp here while raising four daughters in Seattle, WA. She looks forward to collaborating with such a dedicated, competent and vibrant leadership team, FoCS, who also have a strong connection to the founder’s mission. “It is such an honor and joy to play a part in keeping Camp Soles alive for many generations to come. Join us at campsoles.org to see how you can participate in our success. We are definitely going to Reinvent Fun!” Gretl shares.
To enroll in any of the 2021 Camp Soles camps or to apply for one of the many available positions for the fast approaching summer season, please visit www.campsoles.org. For questions, please call 412.213.5321 or email [email protected].
Last October, The YMCA of Greater of Pittsburgh, which had assumed ownership of the 200-acre property in 2011, put the camp up for sale. After months of negotiations, the deal was finalized for Souls of Soles LLC. for an undisclosed amount.
