The Enrollment Cliff, with Jake Sorenson, Eric Wittenberg, and Stefanie Gillman - CampHacker #223
Preparing for the Demographic Shift of 2028
Join Travis Allison, Jake Sorenson, Eric Wittenberg, and Stefanie Gillman as they discuss the massive demographic shifts threatening the summer camp industry. The conversation centers on the "enrollment cliff", a sharp decline in birth rates that is already impacting higher education and is set to hit the camp industry's median age group by 2028. They explore why camps must move beyond their historically white, middle-class roots and start engaging diverse communities, alumni networks, and even older populations to ensure survival.
Key Takeaways:
While 2007 was a peak birth year, the 2008 recession and subsequent shifts in 2017 have created a population drop that will hit the median camper age of 11 by the year 2028. Camps must prepare for a decade of decline starting then.
Unlike colleges, many camps fail to cultivate their alumni. Tapping into former campers as donors and advocates is a "gold mine" for long-term financial stability, capital improvements, and planned giving.
In an increasingly digital world, the ability to offer tech-free, face-to-face social skill building is camp's greatest competitive advantage. Articulating this "essential need" is key to growing market share even as the total population of kids shrinks.
Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp Director
Travis - Joyful Belonging Newsletter by Casper ter Kuile
Jake - Kenn Gronbach Demographer
Eric - Innovation Accounting
Stefanie - The Unstuck Box
Your Hosts
Travis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp Pro
Jake Sorenson, Sacred Playgrounds Director
Eric Wittenberg, Camp Machine and Camp Stack CEO
Stefanie Gillman, Hofstra Summer Camps Director
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