Dear Friend:
Here at Glen Brook we are looking to begin a project with extraordinary consequences for the next generation of students, campers, and visiting families—the renovation and expansion of our kitchen and dining facilities.
The kitchen and dining room have been the heart and soul of Glen Brook for some 65 years; it is where we gather most frequently and where young people learn valuable lessons about good food, manners, civility, and the art of conversation. But these two areas need considerable attention to meet the standards of quality that we have come to expect from all of Glen Brook’s programs. The dining room is too small (by almost half) for our summer camp; the kitchen’s floor, walls, plumbing and electrical systems are so outdated that they can no longer support our active cooking program.
I worked in the kitchen 20 years ago as the cook—offering mostly ‘Tater Tots and fish sticks and an occasional batch of frozen vegetables. Thankfully, Glen Brook’s food has come a long way since I wore the chef’s hat! Food has since emerged as a valuable focal point for all our programs: we make our own maple syrup, grow vegetables, press apple cider, raise animals for eggs and meat. And children are involved at every step—being nourished by the food that they have grown themselves.
The time is right to undertake this important project. We have identified a strong local construction company through the recommendation of Doug and Marianne Hamshaw (alums of both Glen Brook and the Waldorf School of Garden City.) Bergeron Construction offers great value in this challenging economic climate, strong technical skills in renovating a historic building, and will make a great partner in re-imagining the future of our buildings into lively and functional places. With a small group of leadership gifts, we have already raised almost 50% of the total expected construction costs of $330,000. Now we need the financial support of our larger Glen Brook community. If you have always wanted to contribute to Glen Brook but have hesitated for some reason, this is your moment to give! Every penny, from every gift, will go directly towards making this exciting project a reality.
Thank you for your commitment to Glen Brook and for your support of the renovation project, which will positively impact our program quality for many years to come.
Best wishes,
Twain Braden
Camp Glen Brook Director
twain@glenbrook.org
P.S. We will be posting construction updates and photos! Click the links along the left column.
Twain Braden
Camp Glen Brook Director