In 1925, Gladys, now a student at Temple University, got a job as a summer camp counselor at The Pines. Although not connected with the YWCA, The Pines adhered to a similar philosophy. Poor women from the slums of Philadelphia came for a week of healthy relaxation in the woods. Younger children could accompany their mothers, but teenagers were not welcome. Husbands could visit on Sunday afternoons. Unattached men and alcohol were absolutely forbidden.

This photo, of a young woman in a white dress holding an oar and a small child, may be of Helen Bowen, Gladys's cousin. Gladys and Helen grew up in the same household and were more like sisters than cousins.