Lessons from Visiting Camps this Summer, with Elizabeth Kaplan, Dan Kirsch, and Ari Polsky - CampHacker #221
Fresh Eyes, Fresh Ideas: Lessons from a Summer of Site Visits
Join Travis Allison and guests Ari Polsky, Elizabeth Kaplan, and Dan Kirsch from JCamp 180 as they share their unique perspectives from visiting dozens of camps this past summer. Discover the trends they're seeing across the industry—from the return of "normalcy" to the challenges with seasonal staff resilience and housing. This episode is packed with actionable insights on how camps are creatively solving problems, the power of asking donors for help, and simple systems (like a dining hall clipboard!) that can streamline your camp's operations. Whether you run a day camp or an overnight program, this conversation offers a wealth of ideas to help you build a more resilient and impactful camp.
Key Takeaways Include:
Staffing Challenges & Solutions: The trend of staff lacking problem-solving confidence and the "week-to-week" commitment struggle continues. However, creative solutions like upgraded adult-style housing and strategic pay bumps are helping retain key staff.
Fundraising through Authenticity: Don't be afraid to show donors the "unvarnished" truth. Authentic storytelling—even unpolished videos—can be more powerful than slick productions. Let donors see the real impact and challenges; they want to help.
Digital Detox for Staff: A standout success story from Camp Stone showed that when staff voluntarily locked away their phones for the session, they rediscovered the joy of face-to-face connection, reading, and creative play—just like the "old days."
Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp Director
Travis - ShortWave AI Email Agent
Elizabeth - Meal Announcement Clipboard!
Dan - DiVine Video
Ari - Don't Get Accustomed to Average Podcast Episode
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Your Hosts
Travis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp Pro
Elizabeth Kaplan - Jcamp180 Program Coordinator, ekaplan@hgf.org
Dan Kirsch - Jcamp180 Consultant, dan@hgf.org
Ari Polsky - Jcamp180 Consultant, apolsky@hgf.org
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