My Journey and Experiences

By Elisabeth C. Siedentop-Wing M. Ed

Camp Fire has had a profound impact on my life and the lives of many others involved.
Here’s a brief account of my journey.

I joined Camp Fire as the shyest 7 year old kid with German as my first language and
English as my second. Connecting with peers was challenging. My home life was
complex; and in short, I had two sisters who lived with their mother but visited Illinois
during the summer, and a brother and Dad who was actively involved in Boy Scouts. My
mother led a Camp Fire group, remaining in that role throughout my high school years,
while also leading other groups, including one at Little City in Palatine.

As a youth, I attended and later worked at Camp Tiyalaka in Westfield, WI, until the
property was unexpectedly sold. To attend camp, I sold over 500 boxes of World’s
Finest Chocolate and when our camp closed I worked at Sweyolakan in Idaho.

What did Camp Fire mean to me? This incredible organization provided me with lifelong
friendships. Regardless of where life takes us, we support one another. Camp Fire
equipped me with skills that fostered self-pride, encouraged exploration of new ideas,
nature, and community, and helped me acquire various skills.

We participated in numerous community events, which were both enjoyable and
beneficial to us and others. We went camping multiple times a year, including a trip
where a tornado struck shortly after we arrived.

As we matured, our leaders encouraged us to take on more responsibility in planning
and choosing our club activities. For example, we learned new skills and engaged in
decision-making, with adult leaders acting more as advisors than supervisors. C.F.
developed a relationship with Native American cultures, and we researched their
traditions to create and wear our special Ceremonial Gowns at our Grand Council Fires.
Each of us had the opportunity to select a tribe and incorporate their colors and designs
into our gowns. My Ceremonial Gown and Indian name come from the Sioux Tribe.

During high school, I served as an assistant club leader and was a member of the
Chicago Camp Fire youth board. I even participated in an archaeological dig in
Southern Illinois, which was an incredible experience. During my high school years I
dedicated two years to earning my Wo-He-Lo Medallion, culminating in a significant
project where I wrote and directed a play about Dr. and Mrs. Gulick and our
connections with Native Americans and the pioneers of our great land.

I have had the honor of serving as the Board President of Camp Fire Illinois Prairie,
where my term has just concluded. I am also proud to be a recipient of the Dr. Gulick
Award. My accomplishments with Camp Fire have been immensely fulfilling, shaping
who I am today.