For more than 70 years, Lutherlyn in Prospect has been hosting children of all ages and groups in a variety of camps and activities throughout the summer.

Until this year.

Because of the coronavirus pandemic, Lutherlyn executive director Deb Roberts announced the cancellation of all its camps on its website Monday via a YouTube link.

“It is with great sadness that the Lutherlyn board of directors and staff have made the very difficult decision to cancel our summer camp programs,” Roberts said in the video, delivered from the camp's outdoor theater.

Lutherlyn offers weeklong, half-week and day programs for children from grades 1 through 12. Lutherlyn also hosts special interest camps for youth.

Roberts herself camped at Lutherlyn at a young age.

“I personally have been at summer camp at Lutherlyn since I was 10 years old,” she said. “I would have been devastated by this news as a camper.”

Roberts said parents and campers will receive an email by Friday with details on how to receive a refund.

Roberts also said there are virtual camping activities in the works.

“I know that with this announcement comes sadness, grief and a flood of other emotions,” Roberts said. “Lutherlyn will remain.”

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