The International Camper Exchange Program (ICEP)
We are happy to announce that our partners from both YMCA of Spain and YMCA of Hannover Germany are open to exchange for summer 2025 (Spain) and 2026 (Germany). Proposals are being worked on for Camp Conrad Weiser to host delegates from Spain and Germany as well as send American campers to each country.
What is pre-registration? Due to the uncertainty of restrictions of each governing body involved in international exchange, Camp Conrad Weiser and Its international partners wish to keep the health and safety of all participants in priority.
- A pre-registration will be available to all teens 13-16 to hold a spot should the final approval come to run the trip.
- For pre-registration, there will be no deposit or tuition collected.
- Pre-registration is not a guaranteed spot on an ICEP trip.
- Each participant will need to fill out an application and participate in an interview.
- Interviews will be conducted beginning in mid- January.
- Cost and dates are approximate. Final dates will be communicated before a commitment to go on the trip.
ICEP Germany 2026: July 3 – August 2, 2026 –
Informational Flyer Here (2024 version)
Cost:
Tier 1: $5,500 (flights included)
YMCA Camp Abbensen, Germany: Since 1951, we have been fortunate to have a camper exchange program with the Hanover YMCA of Germany and Camp Abbensen. On alternating years, 13-14 teens from Germany attend Camp Conrad Weiser and 13-14 teens fly to Germany to attend Camp Abbensen’s International Camp. This 3-week program is well-established and boasts 2 weeks of camp and 1 week of travel. While German language skills are encouraged, being fluent in the language is not necessary. Campers from Germany, Spain, Russia and Camp Conrad Weiser participate in this program. The Camp Abbesen’s International Camp is conducted in English.
- Location: Hannover, Germany.
- Participant Age: 13-15 years-old.
- Travel Week Destinations: Hannover, Munich, and Berlin.
- Home stay: Campers will stay with a home stay family for 1 week. This family is vetted by the YMCA of Germany.
- Chaperones: The US Delegation to this camp will be organized and chaperoned by the South Mountain YMCA Camps’ staff.
Your camper will be traveling to Germany in 2026, but the journey begins early with an exciting opportunity to meet the German camper who will be visiting America first. This program is a fantastic way to connect with the German camper and their family, giving you peace of mind and a head start before sending your CCW camper abroad for three weeks.
Encouraged Participation in Session E: We highly encourage your camper to attend Session E (July 27–August 2, 2025) of CCW. This session will include the German camper your family will be hosting, offering a unique opportunity to bond and build meaningful connections.
American Homestay Weekend: After Session E, your family will host the German camper for the weekend. You’ll bring them home and share American traditions and activities, helping them experience life as part of your family.
2026 Exchange in Germany: The same German camper you hosted in 2025 will welcome your camper to Germany in 2026. Your camper will enjoy a similar homestay experience, strengthening the friendship formed this summer!
For more information on this program, please contact Sam Westphal at 610-670-2267, ext. 223, or at swestphal@smymca.org
ICEP Spain – Around Mid July- Mid August, 2025
Informational Flyer Here (2024 Version)
Tier 1: $5,500 (includes flight)
- Location: * New Location – Salduero, Spain – Watch Here
- Participant Age: 14-16 years-old.
- Travel Week Destinations: TBD. The Camp Conrad Weiser Director is traveling to Spain in Mid-January to finalize travel and program details. Stay tuned.
- Chaperones: The US Delegation to this camp will be organized and chaperoned by the South Mountain YMCA Camps’ staff.
The International Camp Program:
- The international Camp at Camp Salduero runs two weeks
- The Travel portion of the trip is 1 week
- In previous years, travelers have visited Priego, Toledo, Cuenca and Madrid.
- For more information on this program, please contact Sam Westphal at 610-670-2267, ext. 223, or at swestphal@smymca.org
Traveling to the United States to attend YMCA Camp Conrad Weiser
This English-immersion experience on attending YMCA Camp Conrad Weiser is second to none in the U.S. In addition to its excellent programs and facilities, the South Mountain YMCA Camps are centrally located on the east coast of the United States allowing for ready access to New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington D.C. For participants attending camp as part of a program led by our overseas partners, excursions to these exciting locations have already been arranged. For campers attending our programs independently, such trips can be arranged if desired.
For more information on this program, please contact Sam Westphal at 610-670-2267, ext. 223, or at swestphal@smymca.org
International Camp Staff
Of the many rich traditions we celebrate at the South Mountain YMCA Camps, our legacy of welcoming summer camp counselors from around the world is one of the most special. Each year, 30% of our summer staff arrive on the mountain from outside the United States to help children reach their full potential, share their native language & culture, and learn a little about U.S. language & culture. We hope you’ll consider joining our team!
To inquire about summer positions, you may contact Cory Evans, Camp Conrad Weiser Director at 610-670-2267 or using the Contact button located at the bottom of this page. Additionally, you will be asked to apply through one of the international placement agencies with which we work. These organizations include:
Good Luck! We can’t wait to see you on the mountain.
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