Courtesy of Camp Legionville

     Safety is the top expectation most parents have when choosing youth programs and school activities for their children. It is also the purpose behind The American Legion Department of Minnesota's Camp Legionville.
     Known officially as Legionville School Safety Patrol Training Center, Inc., its primary function is to train boys and girls in the procedures of crossing safely at intersections and bus patrol work. Moreover, it does so in the fun-filled environment of summer camp located on the shores of North Long Lake in Brainerd, Minn.
     "Legionville is the only camp of its kind that we know of in the world," said Camp Director Emily Hoeschen. "It's an opportunity for school patrol members to become captains for their squad. There has not been a crosswalk fatality while a patrol member has been on duty since camp opened in 1956."
     Legionville campers are also taught swimming, first aid, canoeing and boating safety. The camp consists of eight one-week sessions, with approximately 150 boys and girls enrolled per session. In addition to receiving financial support from The American Legion Department of Minnesota, hometown organizations often pay the campers' $160 sponsorship fee.
     Instruction at the camp is provided by Minnesota State Patrol Officers. While hired staff are responsible for the day-to-day operations at the camp, Hoeshen said, "Legionville would not be possible without The American Legion. Many local posts provide the funding for campers to come each summer. The American Legion has a board that the camp director meets with twice a year to touch base with general camp information."
     What makes Camp Legionville successful is that it is pro-active. It is often the news that you don't hear, the child who isn't hit by a car or the swimmer that doesn't drown that is evidence of a program's success.