 | Next Level (Entering 8th & Up) | July 12-18 |
Home Base
Columbus Catholic High School and Blessed Maria Assunta Pollotta Middle School
3225 W 9th St
Waterloo, IA 50702
Director: Eric Gehlhausen
Manager Support: Patty Frana
Chaplain: Fr. Greg Lambert
Camp Details
- About Waterloo/Cedar Falls: Waterloo and Cedar Falls are twin towns lying in the heart of the Cedar Valley in Iowa. Running through the Cedar Valley is the Cedar River, which offers beautiful scenery and numerous recreational opportunities. The metropolitan area is estimated to have 170,000 residents. This area is rooted in history, hard work, resiliency, and kindness. Waterloo is locally known as the “Factory City.” John Deere agricultural machinery has been produced in the city for over a century. Cedar Falls is home to the University of Northern Iowa, one of three State Universities in Iowa.
- Cedar Valley Catholic Schools has graciously offered the use of their connected High School and Middle School facilities for CHWC.
- Sleeping rooms will be in large, air-conditioned classrooms, most of which are carpeted.
- The cafeteria, snack area, and program area (large gym) are all air-conditioned.
- A separate indoor gym (non-air-conditioned) is available for recreation, as well as outdoor recreation areas.
- Columbus has a 24-hour beautiful Eucharistic Adoration chapel available for prayer, as well as outdoor prayer spaces.
- Showers are on-site in 4 separate locker room facilities.
- Adults will have male and female locker rooms, each with 4 private showers.
- Youth will have male and female locker rooms with 9-12 showers available.
Worksites
- The Cedar Valley has several service agencies with which we will collaborate, including Habitat for Humanity, Re-Store, St. Vincent DePaul, Cedar Valley Humane Society, Salvation Army, Veteran agencies, Black Hawk Homeless Shelter, NE Iowa Food Bank, and others. We will also have worksites from our five local parishes and three Catholic Elementary schools.
Freeday
John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum
The John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum in Waterloo, Iowa, celebrates the rich history and innovation of one of America’s most iconic agricultural brands. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, restored tractors, and engines that showcase the evolution of farming technology from the 1800s to today. The museum offers a hands-on, family-friendly experience that highlights the craftsmanship, engineering, and global impact of John Deere equipment.
Phelps Youth Pavilion
The Phelps Youth Pavilion in Waterloo, part of the Waterloo Center for the Arts, is a lively children’s museum with 40+ hands-on exhibits that inspire creativity and cultural exploration. Kids can make art, climb and play, and discover cultures from around the world in an engaging, interactive space.
Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum
The Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum, part of the Grout Museum District, honors the service and sacrifice of Iowa veterans from the Civil War to today with over 35 interactive exhibits, traditional displays, and an electronic Wall of Honor
It also preserves more than 1,500 oral histories through the Voices of Iowa project, giving authentic voices and stories to the veterans’ experiences
Waterloo Center for the Arts (WCA)
The Waterloo Center for the Arts is a cultural hub along the Cedar River, featuring galleries, performance spaces, and the nation’s largest public collection of Haitian art. It also houses the Phelps Youth Pavilion, offering hands-on art experiences for children.
Waterloo Riverloop
The RiverLoop in downtown Waterloo is a revitalized riverfront area along the Cedar River featuring an outdoor amphitheater, plaza, splash pad, playground, and scenic trails. It hosts concerts, movie nights, farmers markets, and festivals, making it a vibrant gathering place for the community.
George Wyth State Park
George Wyth State Park, located between Waterloo and Cedar Falls, Iowa, is a 1,200-acre “urban wildlife sanctuary” perfect for summer activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking along scenic trails, swimming at the beach, fishing, and boating on its four beautiful lakes.
Lost Island Theme Park and Waterpark
Lost Island Theme Park and Waterpark in Waterloo, Iowa, offers an exciting mix of thrill rides, family attractions, and water fun. The theme park features immersive lands, roller coasters, and interactive experiences, while the waterpark includes slides, a lazy river, wave pools, and areas for all ages. It’s a perfect summer destination for adventure, relaxation, and nonstop fun.
Additional Ideas
- Young Arena
- Bluedorn Science Imaginarium
- Hartman Reserve Nature Center
- Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens
- Palmer’s Family Fun
- Dan Gable Wrestling Museum
