Day Camp Community

#Camps are more than places - they are catalysts for growth, connection, and lifelong memories?? Across the country, camps take on countless forms, from for-profit ventures to non-profit missions, from all-girls havens to co-ed adventures. Each type carries its own unique rhythm, yet all camps share a common thread that unites them: a commitment to fostering values that leave lasting imprints on lives.? They are places where values like teamwork, independence, and resilience are sown and nurtured, cultivating a legacy that outlives the summer sun?? Every camp tells its own story while contributing to a greater narrative - the transformation of young lives into their highest potential! #summercamp #daycamp #summercamp2025

Exciting news from ELRN! The Emerging Leaders Resource Network has become the Empowered Leaders Resource Network (ELRN)! ?? Why the change? “Emerging” is a great term, but we realized it could unintentionally limit who feels welcome. Our new name better reflects our purpose—empowering ALL leaders, regardless of age, experience, or tenure, to thrive and create lasting change in their communities! ELRN is for leaders at every stage of their journey, especially those new to their roles or career. We're here to support YOU in growing your leadership and driving positive impact. As we officially transition into our new name, you'll begin to see some resources, education, and tips related to our renewed vision to support our intersectional community. Stay tuned to all of our channels for updates! Let’s continue to build a stronger, more inclusive YMCA community together! ???

Are you ready to step into a #newcareer??? We’re inviting you to be part of something bigger. With two roles open, Senior Camp Account Manager and Business Account Partner, this could be your chance to join a team that thrives on collaboration, passion, and excellence.? Imagine starting this year with a position where your skills and creativity truly shine in a welcoming and dynamic environment. If you’re ready to join a company that values both professional growth and meaningful connections, head to the link in our bio to explore what could be your next great adventure! #nowhiring #hiring #pennsylvaniajobs #insurancejobs

It made my day getting this feedback on the session Jack Schott and I led on Time-Tested Approaches to Day Camp Training: Our training mantras: ?? If you aren’t having fun, they aren’t having fun. ?? Show, not tell. ?? We remember stuff when "we use it and it’s about us." ?? Role model the leadership you want your staff to have with your kids. Nothing better than seeing camps put these ideas into action!

This week at the Northeast YMCA Camp Conference (NEYCC) at Frost Valley YMCA, I was so fortunate to be awarded the Program Innovation Award in Social Responsibility on behalf of Kate Russo and myself for our work in creating and launching a mission based camp - Camp Dragonfly. A few years ago, Kate, with all of her natural care and empathy for other humans, had an idea for launching a free camp for children who had experienced grief, trauma, or loss due to the pandemic. The original idea was for children who lost a parent or guardian due to COVID19, but our program ended up growing to serve a variety of different needs in trauma-informed care. We welcomed children who had experienced a drowning, escape from war-torn Ukraine, navigating the foster care system, and much more. Our little camp idea grew into 10's of thousands of dollars of funding and donations, dozens of children served, several partnerships, and a precedent that mission-based camping is something we should all be doing in this industry. To make it more special, the smart and talented woman we hired to take on this camp and continue its impact beyond us, Gabriella St.Fleur, was able to present the award and share about the impact this camp has had on our community and on her own life. I am so grateful that someone with such a big heart is able to steward this important initiative. I have so much love in my heart for the good work we did, Kate. Our legacy lives on! Check out the full award ceremony video at this link: https://lnkd.in/eeAT_WSz #missionbasedcamping #camp #socialresponsibility #NEYCC2025 #Innovation #legacy

?? If you are going to be at the American Camp Association National Conference in Dallas, make sure to come see ACA Illinois at our two gatherings: ACA Illinois Local Gathering: https://lnkd.in/gCFGb_Hg Women in Camp Gathering: https://lnkd.in/gApG5jTd Pre Register and I'll pack some extra swag just for you! Membership is not required. These events are only open to folks registered to attend the National Conference. Pre registration is not required but you may miss out on some awesome swag and reminders. ??