Come ROAR at YMCA Camp Orkila.

Families and individuals are invited to run through the woods, crawl under a cargo net and dive into a mud pit — all in the name of fun.

Orkila’s Rogue Obstacle Adventure Race is on Saturday, April 15 from 1-5 p.m. There will be a few heats, with the first 1-mile fun run starting at 1:30 p.m. For the first time in ROAR history, attendees have a 5k race option as well. Throughout the afternoon participants can enjoy other camp activities, games and food. This annual spring event is also going to be the camp’s fundraiser for 2023.

“Each year, with the help of volunteers, Orkila makes calls to the community seeking donations to help incredible local programs such as camper scholarships for Orkila Day Camp, Spanish and English language classes, OISD Kinders in the Woods and a partnership with the food bank for storage and spontaneous souping. This year we hope to bring our amazingly supportive community to camp to make their donation on the day of the race instead,” explained Haley Cruz Winchell, Orkila’s senior program director.

Registration for ROAR (https://tinyurl.com/ROAROrkila2023) is $10 and includes a t-shirt. All ages can compete but those under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. You do not have to participate in the race to be a part of the day’s festivities.

For more than 100 years, the camp has been educating, inspiring and challenging thousands of children at its 280-acre, waterfront facility. Annually, more than 10,000 people participate in outdoor education experiences, overnight summer camps, families’ weekends and day camps.

Orkila’s current fundraising goal is $25,000 and it will all go towards Orcas Island programming. Community donations ensure that all people — regardless of finances — can experience the wonder of the property.

“Camp is where I’ve met a lot of friends, every day we do fun things and I don’t have to be sitting at home,” said an Orkila Day Camper.

A parent added: “I receive scholarship support for my kids to be able to attend camp, which is exactly why I donate a little when I can! I see the value and know a little bit counts.”

The organization also partners with the public school to bring kindergarteners out for “Wednesday in the Woods;” the Funhouse and resource centers for an inter-island bilingual Latinx mentor group and weekly English and Spanish language classes; and the food bank to provide storage and use of its kitchen to make soup.

To donate prior to April 15, visit www.seattleymca.org/give/donate/camp-outdoor-leadership-ymca.

“Whether you’d like to run or not, we’d love to see you on race day to enjoy some food, fellowship and make a donation to support our camp community,” said Cruz Winchell.

Upcoming offerings

• Day and overnight camp registrations are open now

• A Women’s Wellness Weekend is planned for April 21-23

For more information, visit www.seattleymca.org/programs/camp-and-outdoor-leadership/camp-orkila