Youth as Co-Creators: Shifting Towards Equity and Empowerment - with Alayna Schmidt - The Pudding #22
Empowering Youth and Advancing Equity in Summer Camps: Insights from Alayna Schmidt
In this episode, Dr. Mandi Baker and Travis Allison interview Alayna Schmidt, a PhD candidate at Clemson University. Alayna’s research focuses on empowering youth as co-creators in camp settings and integrating justice-centered environmental education. She discusses her journey into research and the significant impact of youth participatory action research. The conversation shifts towards the historical and cultural aspects of summer camps, highlighting the pervasiveness of white supremacy in culture. The podcast shares practical strategies for camp professionals to advance equity without overwhelming staff, including youth engagement in decision-making processes and restorative justice approaches.
00:00 Introductions & Alayna’s Pathway to Camp Research
03:13 Sneak Peeks of Youth Participatory Action Research
05:17 Exploring Black Feminist Theory
08:02 Addressing White Supremacy in Camp Culture
21:00 Thoughtful Change of Traditions
23:13 Practical Steps for Advancing Equity in Camps
29:12 How to “Call Someone In” - Using Social Capital
32:33 Future Directions & Episode Wrap-up
Your Hosts
Dr. Mandi Baker, Researcher - Summer Camp, Outdoor Recreation, Sociology and Hospitality/Tourism - getlamped@gmail.com
Travis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp Pro - travis@gocamp.pro
Alayna Schmidt, PhD Candidate, Clemson University - alaynas@clemson.edu
Additional Links of Interest
Thanks to our sponsors!
The American Camp Association - Illinois
The American Camp Association of Illinois is made up of nearly 289,000 members, volunteers, campers, families, and professionals who believe in the power of camp. We work to disrupt the effects of poverty by providing fundamental services for children and families, and learning opportunities for camp professionals. Learn more about ACA Illinois by visiting acail.org.
Camptivities
You know the impact you want camp to make in a child’s life. But figuring out the day-to-day details can be overwhelming. Let Camptivities help you make that impact by streamlining the creation of your camp activity schedules. Schedule a demo at camptivities.com.
