YMCA Camp Kirkwood Celebrates Completion of Major Wastewater Infrastructure Project with Ribbon Cutting and "First Flush" Ceremony

The YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina, Friends of Camp Kirkwood, community leaders, elected officials, donors, and project partners gathered this morning at YMCA Camp Kirkwood to celebrate the completion of a critical wastewater infrastructure improvement project that will help ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of one of southeastern North Carolina’s most treasured youth-serving destinations.

The project connected YMCA Camp Kirkwood’s residential camp facilities to the Wallace-Burgaw sewer system, replacing aging wastewater infrastructure and positioning the camp to safely serve future generations of campers, retreat guests, families, and community groups.

To commemorate the occasion, attendees participated in a unique “First Flush” ceremony featuring a ceremonial golden toilet—a lighthearted but meaningful symbol of the project's impact. With the completion of the new sewer connection, camp staff can focus less on wastewater management and more on what matters most: creating life-changing experiences for children and families.

“This project may not be the most visible improvement at Camp Kirkwood, but it is certainly one of the most important,” said Dick Jones, President and CEO of the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina. “Investments in infrastructure like this ensure that Camp Kirkwood remains a safe, sustainable, and thriving place where young people can build confidence, develop friendships, connect with nature, and create memories that last a lifetime. It also gives us the foundation we need to continue growing our reach and serving more campers and families for generations to come.”

The project was made possible through a combination of public and private support, including funding from the State of North Carolina through the leadership of Representative Carson Smith and Senator Brent Jackson, as well as generous contributions from the Friends of Camp Kirkwood, Dan Cameron Family Foundation and private donors committed to preserving and strengthening Camp Kirkwood for future generations.

Representative Carson Smith joined local leaders and project partners at the celebration and was recognized for his advocacy and support of the project. Additional attendees included Mayor Olivia Dawson, Council Member Glen Price, representatives from project partners McKim & Creed, Four County Electric Membership Corporation, Water and Waste Systems, YMCA volunteers, staff, and community supporters.

Beyond supporting future growth, the new sewer connection also represents an important environmental improvement for Camp Kirkwood’s 195-acre campus. By connecting to the regional Wallace-Burgaw sewer system, the YMCA has invested in modern wastewater infrastructure that helps protect the surrounding forests, waterways, and natural resources that make Camp Kirkwood such a unique place for outdoor learning and recreation.

The project also creates new opportunities for the camp to expand its impact in the years ahead. With dependable infrastructure now in place, Camp Kirkwood is better positioned to accommodate additional campers, retreat groups, conferences, and community gatherings while continuing to provide a safe, high-quality experience for all who visit.

Located on 195 acres of forests, waterways, and wildlife in Watha, North Carolina—just north of Burgaw and approximately 40 minutes from Wilmington—YMCA Camp Kirkwood serves hundreds of children each year through overnight camp, day camp, environmental education, leadership development programs, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The campus also hosts retreats, conferences, faith-based gatherings, and community events year-round, welcoming guests from across North Carolina and beyond.

The wastewater project represents a significant investment in the future of Camp Kirkwood and aligns with the YMCA’s broader commitment to strengthening communities and expanding opportunities for youth and families throughout southeastern North Carolina.

As the ribbon was cut and the ceremonial “first flush” completed, attendees celebrated not only the completion of an infrastructure project, but the continued promise of Camp Kirkwood as a place where future generations can learn, grow, explore, and belong.

And with the first flush now officially behind them, YMCA staff can focus on what they do best—helping campers build confidence, discover independence, develop lifelong friendships, and create memories that will last long after camp ends.

Learn more about YMCA Camp Kirkwood at https://www.ymcasenc.org/camp-kirkwood/