northeast ymca camp conference - frost valley...

Northeast YMCA Camp CoNfereNCe

Conference to ConnectJanuary 28-30, 2013

at Frost Valley yMCa

CoNfereNCe sChedule

moNday: 10:00am ................................Registration Begins ..................................................Welcome Center 12:15-1:15pm ........................Lunch 1:15pm ....................................Welcome & Orientation .................................................. in The Dining Hall 1:30-2:15pm .........................Opening Activity ..................................................“Making Connections” .................................................. in The Dining Hall 2:30-3:45pm ........................session #1 4:00-5:30pm ........................session #2 ..................................................“S’more To Talk About” .................................................. in The Dining Hall 6:00pm ...................................Dinner 6:45pm ...................................Announcements 7:30pm ...................................Keynote by Steve Maguire .................................................. in The Dining Hall ..................................................Entertainment & Social Time tuesday: 7:45-8:45am .........................Breakfast 9:00-10:15am ......................session #3 10:30-11:45am ....................session #4 12:00-2:00pm .....................Lunch ..................................................Vendor Hall and ..................................................Silent Auction (starts) 2:15-3:15pm .........................session #5 3:30-4:30pm ........................session #6 4:45-6:15pm .........................session #7 ..................................................Affinity Group Slideshows 4:45-6:00pm ........................CEO/Executive Vendor Mixer .................................................. in The Castle (We’d love one representative from each YMCA to attend) 6:30pm ...................................Dinner 6:50pm ...................................Announcements 7:45pm ...................................Keynote by Faith Evans, MEd .................................................. in The Dining Hall ..................................................Entertainment & Social Time ..................................................Silent Auction (ends)

WedNesday: 7:45-8:45am .........................Breakfast 8:30am ...................................Closing Remarks 9:30-10:30am ......................session #8 ..................................................CEO Roundtable Discussion .................................................. in The Dining Hall 10:45-11:45am ....................session #9 12:15-1:15pm ........................Lunch ..................................................Optional Grab and Go Available

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WelCome to the Northeast ymCa Camp CoNfereNCe

We are ecstatic you have chosen to attend the “Conference to Connect.” We, the Conference Planning Committee, have done everything in our power to bring many YMCA camps together.

Our goal for your camp conference experience is to

• Make connections– have every participant walk away with at least one new colleague

• Have a small & intimate conference feel – you are part of the family!

• Leave with actionable knowledge – resources and tools you can put into place instantly

The conference programming was designed with this intention.

“S’mores to Talk About” Sessions were introduced last year to share as much actionable knowledge as possible. We have our annual Carpetball Tournament to help create connections and friendly rivalries. Our Keynotes, Steve Maguire & Faith Evans, were chosen because of their intimate and energetic styles of speaking. The Affinity Groups were created for you to connect with someone in your niche of Y Camping.

We earnestly believe that YMCA Camping is a greater than just the programs we offer to children, families, groups, or schools. YMCA Camping is a movement. It is bigger than just one camp. Your efforts are building on a momentum that serves an incredible amount of people. YMCA Camping lives and breathes because of you.

This conference could not have happened without a few key groups of people. Thank you for attending and making this our largest NEYCC yet. Speakers are sharing their knowledge. Our sponsors have truly allowed for us to have a well run, high quality, conference at an affordable rate. The Frost Valley YMCA staff have gone out of their way to accommodate every conference need. Lastly, thank you to the Conference Planning Committee. They’ve continued the great legacy and the high quality this conference has become.

If I can leave you with one piece of advice for the next few days it would be to be bold. Introduce yourself to people you don’t know. Go to sessions on topics you know nothing about. Listen to speakers you’ve never heard present. Sit with people you don’t know at lunch. Ask people if they have advice on the questions you bring. Meet with vendors and start new business relationships. Give the conference committee your feedback (we constantly seek to improve this conference!). Connect with each other.

If you need anything while you are here, please ask. From the Planning Committee & Site Host, we sincerely hope you enjoy your time with us. Thank you spending the next few days creating something amazing.

Sincerely,

Dan Weir

Chair of the 2013 Northeast YMCA Camp Conference

Director of Camping Services at Frost Valley YMCA

alCohol: NY State law prohibits the consumption of alcohol by anyone under the age of 21. Alcohol is not permitted in common areas of camp.

lost & fouNd: Found items may be returned at the Front Desk or to a staff member at the Dining Hall. To inquire about lost items, contact our Housekeeping Department at ext. 315 or via email: [email protected].

room CheCK-out proCedure: Check-out is no later than 12 p.m. the day of your departure. A late fee of $75 is charged. Please help us by using this checklist: • Place linens and towels by the front door (Lakeview/Castle leave in room) • Place garbage in the trash box located outside your lodge • Turn off all lights • Sweep floors • Turn thermostats down to 65˚ (Lakeview Lodge, turn dial full LEFT) • Check for personal belongings Note: You will be held responsible for damaged or missing building furnishings.

IN Case of emergeNCy: Assistance is available from any phone by dialing 200. After 10 p.m. dial ext. 328. The 24 hour EMT staff will respond and care will be provided in the Guenther Family Wellness Center. Frost Valley YMCA does not provide health or accident insurance to guests and is not responsible for injuries incurred while guests use personal sports equipment. Information on area hospitals is available at the Wellness Center (ext. 225) and the Front Desk.

telephoNes aNd INterNet aCCess: Incoming messages may be received at our Front Desk in the Welcome Center at 845-985-2291 and will be delivered at the following meal. There is limited cell phone service for Verizon users only at our Welcome Center and Geyer Hall. This service is designed for quick calls, emergencies and is not intended for lengthy conversations. Frost Valley YMCA provides house phones throughout our property that can be used for longer calls, and will work with a calling card, credit card, or by calling collect. A business center will be set up in Geyer Hall to make any phone calls necessary. To make an outside call, dial 5 then your calling card, the phone number or collect number. Pre-paid phone cards are sold at the Front Desk and the Frost Valley Store.

Public Wi-Fi internet access is available in the Welcome Center, the Thomas Dining Hall, Geyer Hall and Lakeview Lodge.

Camp seCurIty: For everyone’s safety, overnight guests must wear an ID bracelet or name tag distributed at check-in. Day guests also receive a wristband. A Frost Valley Parking Permit must be displayed inside the front windshield of all vehicles.

store: The Frost Valley YMCA Camp Store is located in the Main Dining Hall and stocks toiletries, clothing and souvenirs. The Store is open during meal times. Cash, checks, MasterCard and Visa are accepted.

fItNess CeNter: Our Fitness Center will be available for you to exercise in your down time. Please use code 9876 to enter.

reCyClINg: Help us be true to our stewardship values at Frost Valley. Recycling bins are located throughout camp and compost is accepted at the Dining Hall. Please ask a staff member if you have any questions.

road rules: There is a 15 MPH speed limit posted throughout camp. We encourage you to walk when possible.

smoKINg: Frost Valley is a non-smoking community. NY State law prohibits smoking in all buildings. As a courtesy to all guests, smoking is not allowed in program areas or within 50 feet of buildings; please dispose of cigarette butts properly.

WelCome to frost Valley

Please take a moment to read through Frost Valley YMCA’s policies and general information below. Visit the Front Desk in the Welcome Center if you have any questions.

The Welcome Center will be open from 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Call extension 200 if you have questions.

the KeyNotes

moNday 7:30pm

steve maguire www.maguirepresentations.com

Steve’s mission as a professional speaker is to provide fun, professional and inspiring presentations for all clients. Speaking and training in the primary fields of schools and summer camps, Steve’s audiences range from summer camp staff and administrators to school faculty, students, athletes and parents.

Steve has been a full time school teacher for 16 years. He teaches Meteorology, Astronomy and Physics at Scituate High School in Scituate, MA. In his teaching career, he has taught high school and middle school. Teaching in a classroom and being on the “front lines” with kids is part of what makes Steve so credible to his audiences. Participants in Steve’s work consistently say he “gets it” when it comes to working with kids.

7 years ago, Steve started his own professional speaking business because he saw a need for dynamic, fun and educating programs in both the academic and camp setting. Since then, over 400 schools and summer camps across the United States have brought him in to work with their faculty and staff. He

has the perfect blend of humor and energy. His audiences consistently describe him as “dynamic,” “hilarious” and “engaging.”

Steve has written numerous articles for Education and Camping magazines across the United States and Canada. And a book is in the works!

Steve is the father of 2 sons (Nolan, 2 ½ years old and Emmitt, 6 months) and a chocolate lab (Frances, 5 years old). He brings the perspective that only a parent can bring to working with students and campers.

Steve is also a YMCA Camp Coniston alum!

tuesday 7:45pm

faith evans, med www.playfullyinc.com

Faith Evans, M.Ed. is a leader in the field of experiential training and human development.

A recognized and published authority, with over 45 years of experience working with groups of 10 – 800, Faith’s passion for play and dedication to learning has impacted the results of individuals and groups across North America.

Nationally recognized for her outstanding trainings, innovative course designs and breakthrough learning experiences, Faith’s clients are diverse and include children and adults, for nonprofits, Fortune 500 corporations, and small businesses, schools and colleges and children’s summer camps.

Faith specializes in action learning with small and large groups in the areas of relationship building, creativity, problem solving, leadership, communication, and play for a purpose . . .and for no purpose! She is the 2001 Kurt Hahn Award Recipient for The Association of Experiential Education

and was twice nationally recognized by American Camping Association for outstanding staff training, and for excellence in writing through numerous articles published in Camping Magazine.

Faith’s commitment to share her knowledge and expertise with teaching professionals, businessmen and woman, fellow facilitators, and summer camp staff is evident to the thousands who have attended her acclaimed keynote addresses and workshops. Faith co-authored 99 of the Best Corporate Experiential Games We Know, a staple in the libraries of training and development professionals nationwide; and in 2007, she won awards for The More the Merrier – Lead Playful Activities for Large Groups. She also co-authored, Play It, Measure It, the A to Z Guide to Experiential Training and contributed chapters to Exploring the Power of Solo, Silence, and Solitude and other books.

Faith Evans is a process consultant and Owner, Director of PlayFully, Inc. an organization dedicated to development services catalyzing life changing growth and potential in people.

pre CoNfereNCe WorKshops

moNday morNINg 9:00-12:00

Join Joanna Warren-smith for: are you up for a Challenge?Join our 3-Hour Business Fitness Boot Camp before the conference starts to get warmed up, psyched and in great shape. Focused, high-impact sessions will target:

• Emergency Repairs

• Precise Messaging

• Competitive Positioning

• Ninja Marketing

• Extreme Engagement

• Cross Training

• Aerobic Routines

Register now and be prepared to work. Homework before the conference will help condition you for maximum enrollments and increased retention in 2014.

Join steve maguire for: day Camp dynamicsCome join Steve Maguire for this 3 hour fun, interactive and intensive workshop about everything day camp. This session will help improve your day camp from drop to pick up and everything before, after and in-between. Steve has worked with hundreds of day camps over the years and he will give you his “best of the best” ideas from all of his current and past clients. Come ready to work and prepared for several tangible takeaways!

fuNdameNtals traCK The fundamentals track is designed to give both the new and seasoned camp staff member an overview of camp basics in everything, and impart new ideas in specific areas. Look for the bold “ft” on the schedule.

session title room#1 Summer Staffing 101 Geyer Room 2

#3 Budgeting 101 Geyer Room 2

#4 Movin’ On Up Geyer Room 2

#5 How To Talk To Parents Geyer Room 2

#6 Programming with a Purpose Geyer Room 2

#8 Promotion 101 Geyer Room 2

moNday 2:30-3:45pmsessIoN #1

room session title presenterGeyer Room 1 History of YMCA Movement & Springfield College Role Harry Rock

Geyer Room 2 Summer Staffing 101 - FT Billy Rankin

Geyer Room 3 Nourishing the Roots of a Camp Garden Andy Szymczak

Geyer Room 5 International Camp Staff, Your Camp, and the State Department: What your camp (and your staff) need to know 3 Adventures

Groel Room “It’s Nothing Personal!” : Evaluating and giving feedback to your staff in a creative and effective way Steve Maguire

Putnam Recreation Room Juggling Strong Leaders Flow Circus

Ruth Gottscho Dialysis Room Designing Staff Orientation from the Ground Up Brent Birchler

Lakeview Common Room Progressive Programming for Day Camp Tony Sharillo

Plansoen Room Improving Summer Staff Performance Seth Friedman

Theater Day Camp is a License to Print Money … LOTS of it Joanna Warren-Smith

Landsberger Arts & Crafts Awesome Assemblies & Campfires Thad Gifford-Smith

Margetts Incorporating Outdoor Education into Summer Programming Dani Brown, Laura Finkle

Kellogg Room Q/A With the OE Directors Jason Marker, Bob Eddings, Heather Siegel-Sawma, Alison Fisk, Dave Kaubin

Day Room Courage to the Core, Bravely Looking at Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, and Caring Donald Padrick

hIstory of ymCa moVemeNt & sprINgfIeld College role Harry Rock, Director, Office of YMCA Relations and Professional Studies, Springfield CollegeThis session will cover the early roots of the YMCA movement with the founding of the Y by George Williams in 1844 and its eventual establishment in the United States in Boston. Learn about the contributions this great institution has made to society and the world including the camping movement in 1885 with Sumner Dudley. We will cover the role of Springfield College as the original YMCA training school and what we are doing today to prepare young people for careers in the YMCA.

Day Camp, Executive/CEO, Resident Camp

summer staffINg 101 Billy rankin, Camp director, ymCa Camp ChingachgookGreat summers begin with great staff. Join us for a look at how to recruit, hire, and develop an amazing team for your summer programs. Intended for camp hiring managers with limited hiring experience, or anyone just looking to brush up on their staffing skillset. Feel free to bring your applications or other materials for discussion.

Resident Camp, Fundamentals Track

NourIshINg the roots of a Camp gardeN andy szymczak, frost Valley ymCa, farm Camp directorHave you thought about gardening as a program at your camp? The garden can offer an invaluable space for campers to gain a stronger sense of where their food comes from through hands on experience, intentional curriculum, and a creative delivery. Garden programs at camp teach about basic biological principles, work values, responsibility, food, nutrition, and the need for sustainability in our world. With planning and drive you can establish a garden that will serve as a space to connect campers to the bigger picture of food access, security, miles, and methods of small scale agriculture. Come learn the basics of implementing garden based programming for your campers as well as the steps to designing and executing a fun, effective, and educational garden program.

Outdoor Education, Resident Camp

INterNatIoNal Camp staff, your Camp, aNd the state departmeNt: What your Camp (aNd your staff) Need to KNoW 3 Adventures, International Camp Staffing Company Jeff daly, matt Buczek, scott CurryEach summer thousands of internationals come from all over the world to our summer camps. Come check out this informative session and stay current on all of the latest State Department regulations facing your camp and your international camp staff. From the interviewing process through their end of summer departure, we’ll walk you through the latest updates and give you the tools and guidelines to be successful.

Come join the 3 Adventures team in a great discussion on the future of International Camp Staffing.

Day Camp, Executive/CEO, Resident Camp

“It’s NothINg persoNal!” : eValuatINg aNd gIVINg feedBaCK to your staff IN a CreatIVe aNd effeCtIVe Way steve maguire, speakerToday’s program/camp counselors and leaders need to be evaluated differently than staff members of the past. In this session, participants will learn techniques to help create an effective and practical staff evaluation. We will explore how the process works over the course of the entire summer as well as share strategies from previous program experiences.

JugglINg stroNg leaders paul miller, executive director, flow Circus dawn daria, education director, flow CircusCounselors challenge campers to learn new skills all summer, but when was the last time they were in the position of learner? What methods do they use to set the campers up for success? This session will reconnect participants with the experience of learning a new skill – juggling. Having taught thousands of jugglers, our approach to introducing this skill will provide the foundation for identifying strong teaching methods & leadership as well as creative ideas for staff training.

Day Camp, Conference/Retreats, Resident Camp, Team Building

desIgNINg staff orIeNtatIoN from the grouNd up Brent Birchler, Boys resident Camp director, ymCa Camp ockanickonPreparing your front line counselors, activity directors, and supervisors for the 2-month marathon known as summer camp is one of the most important and impactful responsibilities of any camp director. It can make or break your summer. This session will focus on designing a staff orientation that will allow you to sleep better at night all summer long knowing that you have a staff team that knows what they are doing, takes that responsibility seriously, and embodies the values of your camp. When designing my orientation, I focus on three key points. First, I want my staff to come out of orientation with the tools and knowledge to get through the first week of camp. They need to understand the schedule, be able get their cabin group through meals and showers with no casualties, know how to move a group of campers from one place to another, and be able to show kids how to handle disagreements. Second, I want them to get into the habits of a professional role model and get out of the habits of being someone who has no one to worry about but themselves. Foul language, over-competitiveness, staying out past curfew = bad. Making sure you have everyone before moving the group, role-modeling how to keep your bunk clean, and putting others’ needs before your own = good. Third, I want to create lots of opportunities for them to build new friendships and strengthen old ones amongst themselves. How can we expect the counselors to teach campers how to make friends at camp if we have not given them a chance to get to know each other and make some of their own new friends? The best way I have found to accomplish these three things is to make your orientation look as much like a session of camp as possible. Give your staff a chance to practice the things you will expect them to be able to do once the campers arrive. We will discuss the use of role-play, sequencing your trainings based on high attention and low attention times of the day and week, the use of outside presenters, and figuring out what your role should be throughout your orientation (no, you should not be the only one doing the talking!). We’ll also discuss how your orientation should change from year to year based on the number of returning staff vs. new staff and how to involve your veterans in delivering different pieces of your training. Please come to this session prepared to share ideas and ask questions.

Day Camp, Resident Camp

progressIVe programmINg for day Camp tony sharillo, ymCa Camp Ingersoll director, ymCa Camp IngersollProgressive Programming is a great technique to help retain your campers from summer to summer. Each age unit/group should be preparing your campers for the next summer and the next level of activities. Providing your campers with a variety of well planned and intentional age appropriate programs will help keep your camp fresh and exciting for many years!

Day Camp

ImproVINg summer staff performaNCe seth friedman, program manager, Interexchange Camp usaUsing techniques learned at Father Flannagan’s Boys Town and Baruch College, Seth will attempt to help your camp leaders improve your summer staff’s performance in a short period of time.

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Executive/CEO, Resident Camp, Team Building

day Camp Is a lICeNse to prINt moNey … lots of It Joanna Warren smith, Camp ConsultantThis statement from a respected Y Camp Professional is true, but not applicable if your product is really ‘day care’ or glorified ‘babysitting’. Today’s savvy, ‘helicopter’ parents know the difference and they will walk away if their child is not totally engaged from opening assembly to the closing ceremony of each day. Fine tune your program so that children wake up in the morning and jump out of bed eager to get to camp. That’s what real quality is all about and the way you can make money … lots of it.

Day Camp

aWesome assemBlIes & CampfIres thad gifford-smith, executive director, Camp Combe ymCaAssemblies or Campfire gatherings are one of the most important elements of the camp experience. They are a chance to build community through a shared experience and one of the few chances for the director of a medium or larger camp to bond with each of the campers. This workshop will focus on techniques for creating dynamic assemblies that involve campers, motivate staff, and set a great tone for the overall camp experience.


INCorporatINg outdoor eduCatIoN INto summer programmINg dani Brown, outdoor education program Coordinator and day Camp director New york ymCa Camp (Camp greenkill)This session is designed for staff to learn about Outdoor Education principles and concepts and how to implement them into summer programs. The session will open with a brief description of what OE is and how it fits into the Y’s focus areas of social development, social responsibility, and healthy living. It will then examine specific examples of how to implement these principles and concepts into Day and Residential Summer Camp Programs through a hands on approach.

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Resident Camp

Q/a WIth the oe dIreCtors Jason marker, Bob eddings, heather siegel-sawma, alison fisk, dave Kaubin discussion panelMeet the OE Directors and ask them anything you want to know about all things OE. After our meeting at the OE Affinity Group we were asked to have a longer session of this. Topics could include resume building, next steps in your career; anything is fair game in the Q & A session.

Outdoor Education

Courage to the Core, BraVely looKINg at respeCt, respoNsIBIlIty, hoNesty, aNd CarINg donald padrick, teambuilding director, frost Valley ymCaDuring this activity based session participants will be asked to revisit the YMCA’s core values with an added challenge – to do so courageously. Often we go through our days mouthing trite phrases and offering vacant expressions as we address the application, or lack thereof, of our values. Respect. Responsibility. Honesty. Caring. Strong words that are so important in the way we treat those we live with, work with, and serve. In “The Courage to Create” psychoanalyst Rollo May asserts “Courage is not a virtue or value among other personal values like love or fidelity. It is the foundation that underlies and gives reality to all other virtues and personal values. Without courage our love pales into mere dependency. Without courage our fidelity becomes conformism.”

Has our love for our jobs, the work we do, and the people who need us become lackluster and stale? Has it become “mere dependency”? Have we lost our drive to stay true to the values we display on our walls, posters, and sweatshirts? Are we leaders or only conformists? Through challenges and discussions we will put to the test the application of our core values. Are we passive with them? Are we active? Should we be aggressive? Are we brave enough? Through the experiential process participants will have a chance to explore and share their roles and feelings.

moNday 4:00-5:30pmsessIoN #2: s’more to talK aBoutDuring this session you will have an opportunity to have a ‘taste’ of multiple workshops that will be offered throughout the conference. You may wish to learn more about a workshop, to see if it is one you would actually like to attend; or you may like to get a small bit of information about a topic that clashes with another workshop you want to attend.

session title presenterThe Ultimate Camp Clipboard CT Camp Guys

“It’s Nothing Personal!”: Evaluating and giving feedback to your staff in a creative and effective way Steve Maguire

SURGE - A conceptual push toward effective group work Donald Padrick

The Great Monkey Rescue, Ubuntu Cards and MORE! High 5 Adventure Learning Center

Adding Value to Our Values and Your Programming Megan Lawrence

The Digital Voice Edward Jenkins

The Bully Free Zone Jason Marker and Phil Brown

Summer Staffing 101 Billy Rankin

FAIL! The other four letter F-Word (Reframing Failure) David Carter

Nourishing the Roots of a Camp Garden Andy Szymczak

Designing Staff Orientation from the Ground Up Brent Birchler

Preparing your Management Team Michael R. Garcia

Awesome Assemblies & Campfires Thad Gifford-Smith

Budgeting 101 Jeff Gleason

How To Talk To Parents Kath Davies

Easy Ways to Grow Your Donor Base Kathryn Dobbs

Information Overload Craig Dawson

Ready, Set, Shine! Tony Sharillo

Teen Programming: Keeping Camp Fresh and exciting for teens Kam Kobeissi

tuesday 9:00-10:15amsessIoN #3

room session title presenter

Geyer Room 1 Creating an Intentional & Innovative Aquatics & Waterfront Program Joshua Scott

Geyer Room 2 Budgeting 101 - ft Jeff Gleason

Geyer Room 3 The Bully Free Zone Jason Marker, Phil Brown

Geyer Room 5 Long Range Planning Made Simple Jerry Huncosky

Groel Room Mentor Circles – What Goes Around Comes Around - Part 1 Faith Evans

Putnam Recreation Room Fundama: A DIY Skill Toy - Part 1 Flow Circus

Ruth Gottscho Dialysis Room Water Attractions for Camp Rave Sports

Huncosky Board Room Adding Value to Our Values and Your Programming Megan Lawrence

Lakeview Common Room Camp Staff: A Day in the Life James Goodger, Kim Burrows

Plansoen Room Effective Operation of a Learn to Sail Program American Sail

Partenheimer Lounge SURGE - A conceptual push toward effective group work - Part 1 Donald Padrick

Theater There’s MORE to Your Business than Summer Camp! Joanna Warren-Smith

Landsberger Arts & Crafts What Kids Want Connecticut Camp Guys

Margetts The Great Monkey Rescue, Ubuntu Cards and MORE! High 5 Adventure Learning Center

CreatINg aN INteNtIoNal & INNoVatIVe aQuatICs & WaterfroNt program Joshua scott, aquatics & training Coordinator, Kennebec Valley ymCa/Camp KV day Camp, training director, ymCa Camp of maineThis session will detail how to create a safe, intentional, & innovative waterfront/aquatics program. Topics will include ideas on how to enhance developmental assets, how to make aquatics/waterfront fun while keeping it safe, how to create intentional swim lessons, an overview of national aquatic training courses, a waterfront CIT program, how to reduce your operating costs while providing a great program, and national aquatic safety best practices.

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Conference/Retreats, Resident Camp

BudgetINg 101 Jeff gleason, director, ymCa Camp lincolnBudgeting break-down. These basics will help you be better prepared for your next meeting when income, expense, net, gross, deferred, annualized, capitalized, and accrual are terms you should know. Even the term budget will be defined. An example will be laid out at the beginning of the session and worked through as the terms are defined and a solution is reached.

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Business/Operations, Conference/Retreats, Financial Development, Resident Camp, Team Building, Fundamentals Track

the Bully free ZoNe Jason marker, outdoor education director, New york ymCa Camp - greenkill outdoor education Center phil Brown, adventure program Coordinator, New york ymCa Camp - greekill outdoor education CenterCamps, Outdoor Education and Retreat Centers are the perfect place to take on bullying and other conflict issues due to the close proximity we have with our participants and the relationships that we often forge both with participants and perhaps more importantly with our staff. This session will focus on defining the definition(s) of bullying, practices that help promote a sense of community development at your camp, and some activities that work towards these goals. Please note that we do not intend to be the final solution to bullying within this workshop, rather we hope that you will leave this workshop with a lot of new thoughts and ideas to take back to your camp and start dialogues with your leadership team.

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Conference/Retreats, Resident Camp, Team Building

loNg raNge plaNNINg made sImple Jerry huncosky, Ceo, frost Valley ymCa Jerry, has led Frost Valley through two, five year strategic plans and one associated capital campaign. His planning style is to gather groups of people and systematically draw out ideas from the group and come to a shared vision combining all ideas. Once the vision is established the group works backwards continuing to refine plans into measurable goals. The outcome of the session is to understand who your key partners are, how to assemble them and lead them through a planning process. Participants will leave with the tools to effectively build a Long Range/Strategic Plan for their camp. This can apply internally to branch camps and then melded into the Associations plan or even a planning session for individual programs. Planning is not brain surgery, it just requires out of the box thinking, the will to take a risk and a desire to move your camp forward in an organized fashion.

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Business/Operations, Conference/Retreats, Executive/CEO, Financial Development, Resident Camp

meNtor CIrCles – What goes arouNd Comes arouNd - part 1 faith evans, medBeing willing to “ask for help” can transform your culture. Mentor and be mentored by a peer expert in the room! Share your wisdom, ask for and receive knowledge in a chosen area for growth, and expand professional connections during the fulfilling experience of a Mentor Circle. Be ready for surprises, good learning, and fun.

*participants should be prepared to attend both part 1 and part 2 of this session

fuNdama: a dIy sKIll toy - part 1 paul miller, executive director, flow Circus dawn daria, education director, flow CircusLooking for a fun rainy day activity? Need creative competitions to engage your tweens and teens? This session will introduce you to cheap and easy-to-make skill based challenges that campers can design, construct, and master. All you need on hand are paper cups, string, masking tape, and dowels. Come learn about basic designs for your younger campers, more complex Fundama like the Six and Ladder for your older campers, and even invent your own personal Fundama to wow colleagues.



Water attraCtIoNs for Camp patrick Carley, senior account manager (Water sports specialist), raVe sportsShow options and opportunities for YMCA camps to provide fun water sports attractions for day and resident campers. Water Trampolines, Bouncers, large Water Play Structures (Icebergs, Rope Swings, Saturns, Activity Islands, and all new Splash Trax systems).


addINg Value to our Values aNd your programmINg megan lawrence, director of Camp Wawayanda, frost Valley ymCaAccording to the New York Times, experts are beginning to focus on the correlation between Character Education Curriculum in schools and youth success in the ‘real world’. Well guess what? As the YMCA this is in our mission. Band together with other Y professionals to become inspired to breathe life back into the values we seek to instill in our participants. Be prepared to walk away wanting and needing to do more with your values in your programs.


Camp staff: a day IN the lIfe James goodger, director of Camping Initiatives, ymCa of montclair Kim Burrows, Camp director, ymCa of montclairJames and Kim bring years of conference attendance and personal training experience to this unique and highly energetic session that is specifically designed to help participants improve their 2013 staff training delivery. Games, activities, debriefing and spirit combine to create a training tool that will help staff ‘get it’ a whole lot quicker. The camp staff journey begins at the bus stop or when campers take their first step on the camp grounds and ends on their last day of camp. Not only will you have a laundry list of ‘games that teach’ for all camp occasions, but maybe a fresh approach to use in the training months ahead. (Please note, some of the games and activities are James and Kims favorites from a combined 17 years of YMCA/ACA Tri-State attendance)

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Resident Camp, Team Building

effeCtIVe operatIoN of a learN to saIl program dave stanton, american sailRound table discussion of effective steps to operate a learn to sail program. Includes discussion of sailing books & material to use, selection of products for level of program, dry land simulators for instruction, on the water involvement, effective chase boats, safety steps, and “”What if”” planning for emergencies.


surge - a CoNCeptual push toWard effeCtIVe group WorK - part 1 donald padrick, teambuilding director, frost Valley ymCaThis lecture and discussion based workshop is appropriate for facilitators who are just beginning to work with groups as well as those with years of experience. It is not limited to teambuilding or ongoing groups. The concepts could also apply to the classroom, club, or boardroom. It will present a framework for understanding the components of the group process and effective sequencing. Participants will be taken through the importance of safety, the need for group members to undertake challenges, a multistep process for making the group experience relevant, the appropriate selection of activities and types of activities, and desirable and anticipated outcomes. Even though much of the material may be familiar it will be presented in an overarching way that helps with understanding and then applying the concepts. SURGE has proven to be a good review for seasoned facilitators as well as a comprehensive approach for those who have only a small exposure but know

they want more. There will also be a discussion period for questions and a chance for participants to share difficult past group experiences and analyze them through the SURGE format.



there’s more to your BusINess thaN summer Camp! Joanna Warren smith, Camp ConsultantMost Y facilities offer a myriad of year-round products including Outdoor Ed, Conferences, Retreats and Schools-Out Programs, yet the non-summer businesses often function at a deficit. It doesn’t have to be this way! Take practical steps to identify competitive products, price them appropriately, proactively market and most important, deliver exceptional experiences.

What KIds WaNt Connecticut Camp guys mark pooler and patrick ConnellyJoin the CT Camp Guys as we take a detailed look at why kids go to camp each summer. We will examine the hopes, expectations and desires of kids. Included in this workshop are quotes, comments and opinions of real camp kids as we learn how to operate, program and improve camp from their brutal honesty. Sometime camp leaders get too caught up in “thinking” they know what kids want! This session will confirm what you may already know and open your eyes to the minds of the kids coming to your camp this summer.


the great moNKey resCue, uBuNtu Cards aNd more! Chris ortiz, training Coordinator, high 5 adventure learning CenterAt High 5, we are constantly innovating. Utilizing multimedia, creating new props, modifying and improving upon activity ideas. Come get a preview of the cool stuff we have been working on (before the book gets published.) Everything from ice breakers to initiative problems. Highlighted will be High 5’s Ubuntu cards which offer endless opportunities for group interaction and creative play.

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Team Building

tuesday 10:30-11:45amsessIoN #4

room session title presenterGeyer Room 1 Coming Out at Camp: Supporting Your GLBTQ Staff Jeremy Plane

Geyer Room 2 Movin’ On Up - ft Dave DeLuca

Geyer Room 3 Easy Ways to Grow Your Donor Base Kathryn Dobbs

Geyer Room 5 TV Trivia Game Show - Demo Session Digi Games, Inc

Groel Room Mentor Circles – What Goes Around Comes Around - Part 2 Faith Evans

Putnam Recreation Room Fundama: A DIY Skill Toy - Part 2 Flow Circus

Ruth Gottscho Dialysis Room Using Technology to Better Manage Your Camp: More Camp, Less Desk Matt Brand, Ed Metzendorf

Huncosky Board Room Crisis Response Redwoods

Lakeview Common Room Ready, Set, Shine! Tony Sharillo

Plansoen Room Camp Store Discussion Panel – The Best Marketing For Your Camp Bolducs

Partenheimer Lounge SURGE - A conceptual push toward effective group work - Part 2 Donald Padrick

Theater Bring An Apple for the Teacher - Teacher Panel Heather Siegel-Sawma, Alison Fisk

Landsberger Arts & Crafts Using Pop Culture to Connect to Students and Enhance Your EE Classes Ashley Ritzheimer

Margetts WHY? Taking a deeper look into your programs High 5 Adventure Learning Center

ComINg out at Camp: supportINg your glBtQ staff Jeremy plane, assistant Camp director, ymCa Camp abnakiCamps work to create communities that are safe and inclusive for all members of their community--campers, staff, and volunteers. Whether they’re “out” or not, you have members of your staff who currently define themselves as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. This workshop is designed to help ensure those staff, and by extension, campers, feel safe and supported in the resident camp environment.

Resident Camp

moVIN’ oN up dave deluca, Ceo, ymCa Camp ralph s. masonApplying for that first full-time professional position – or even your second or third full-time position – can be a challenging and nerve-wracking experience. Everything you do from the moment you choose to apply for a particular job shapes the interviewer’s perceptions of you. What can you do to distinguish yourself from the pack while being careful not to seem overly eager? What are the do’s and don’ts when it comes to your resume and cover letter? When is it appropriate to make an introductory phone call? Dave DeLuca just went through the process of hiring an associate summer camp director and received 97 applications for the position. He’ll share his observations from this process and provide some simple suggestions that will help you when it’s time to apply for that dream job in YMCA Camping.


easy Ways to groW your doNor Base Kathryn dobbs, director of development, frost Valley ymCaWe often think about the importance of telling current and potential donors why it’s important that they give to our cause. But, do your efforts also focus on building an institutional understanding of the importance of giving across all platforms? Do you spend as much time training your program staff, camp counselors, and front desk staff on the importance of giving as you do on outreaching to donors? Is there a place for donors in your organization other than in your annual report? Have you built a culture of philanthropy at your camp? We’ll review helpful hints and ideas to help build a culture of philanthropy and grow your donor base! Grab your pen and paper and join the conversation!

Executive/CEO, Financial Development

tV trIVIa game shoW - demo sessIoN rob Johnson, digi games, IncBe sure to come to our fun, interactive and informative seminar. Here is a few of the topics we will be discussing: Why trivia is a must-have. How trivia can be used as a tool to increase repeat customers. How you can increase entertainment value while decreasing costs to hire an entertainer. How to give away prizes without giving away the bank. The 5-minute crash course: How to be a game show host that everyone will love. Cutting edge technology: The biggest bang for your buck. How a small investment brings the maximum ROI. While there, we will have fun and show by example how trivia is a useful tools to make money, enhance team-building or train employees. If you already own a Game show system and are not interested in buying one will find the seminar very informative. Establishments who do not own a Game show system will find this to be a great opportunity to increase their profits. On-site special pricing on our gear will provide a great incentive to purchase. Attendees are generally allowed to ask their questions and make comments at the end of the seminar with a question and answer session. Come to the seminar, play some games with us, answer some simple trivia questions and YOU could walk away with a prize!


meNtor CIrCles – What goes arouNd Comes arouNd - part 2 faith evans, medBeing willing to “ask for help” can transform your culture. Mentor and be mentored by a peer expert in the room! Share your wisdom, ask for and receive knowledge in a chosen area of growth, and expand professional connections during the fulfilling experience of a Mentor Circle. Be ready for surprises, good learning, and fun.


fuNdama: a dIy sKIll toy - part 2 paul miller, executive director, flow Circus dawn daria, education director, flow CircusLooking for a fun rainy day activity? Need creative competitions to engage your tweens and teens? This session will introduce you to cheap and easy-to-make skill based challenges that campers can design, construct, and master. All you need on hand are paper cups, string, masking tape, and dowels. Come learn about basic designs for your younger campers, more complex Fundama like the Six and Ladder for your older

campers, and even invent your own personal Fundama to wow colleagues.



usINg teChNology to Better maNage your Camp: more Camp, less desK matt Brand, Camp and technology Nerd, Bunk1 ed metzendorf, principal, Bunk1Don’t be afraid. Modern technology can greatly help you run your program and free you and your staff up to be with the camp, not stuck in an office. Build and maintain your camp community all year. You will learn tips and tricks on various technologies. Google’s wide-range of tools will help you communicate and share with your staff. Facebook can be used as a mini-social community for your staff. Twitter and blogs can be used to share with your Parents.


CrIsIs respoNse Josh heimowitz, executive program director, redwoods groupA camper or staff member getting seriously hurt, or killed is a camp directors worst nightmare. We will spend time looking at real life case studies to learn what to do and not to during a crisis, what we can be doing now to be better prepared to handle crisis when they occur and will share key points from our case studies that will help you to prevent similar crisis from happening at your camp.


ready, set, shINe! tony sharillo, ymCa Camp Ingersoll director, ymCa Camp IngersollProviding exceptional customer service should be one of your highest priorities! We will discuss ways to get your year round and seasonal staff bought into providing the highest level of customer service they can, from your office staff and counselors to your maintenance staff.

Day Camp

Camp store dIsCussIoN paNel – the Best marKetINg for your Camp todd adelson, president, Bolduc’s apparel greg donovan, art director, Bolduc’s apparel Camp panelThis seminar will cover the true benefits behind a successful camp store model. Marketing apparel and promotional items to your campers and families has never been easier! Join us for an interesting conversation with a panel of true professionals representing some of the most successful summer camp apparel models on east coast.

Conference/Retreats, Resident Camp, Day Camp

surge - a CoNCeptual push toWard effeCtIVe group WorK - part 2 donald padrick, teambuilding director, frost Valley ymCaThis lecture and discussion based workshop is appropriate for facilitators who are just beginning to work with groups as well as those with years of experience. It is not limited to teambuilding or ongoing groups. The concepts could also apply to the classroom, club, or boardroom. It will present a framework for understanding the components of the group process and effective sequencing. Participants will be taken through the importance of safety, the need for group members to undertake challenges, a multistep process for making the group experience relevant, the appropriate selection of activities and types of activities, and desirable and anticipated outcomes. Even though much of the material may be familiar it will be presented in an overarching way that helps with understanding and then applying the concepts. SURGE has proven to be a good review for seasoned facilitators as well as a comprehensive approach for those who have only a small exposure but know they want more. There will also be a discussion period for questions and a chance for participants to share difficult past group experiences and analyze them through the SURGE format.



BrINg aN apple for the teaCher - teaCher paNel James dunham, retired principal, glen Worden elementary, scotia, Ny heather siegel-sawma, groups program director ymCa Camp Chingachgook, lake george, Ny alison fisk, outdoor Center director, ymCa Camp mason Bob edding, school programs director, frost Valley ymCaDo you know what it takes to put together a field trip? Here is your chance to talk with teachers who have helped organize overnight trips to camps. Learn about the challenges teachers have encountered organizing students, parents, and school administration. Hear why they continue to bring students to camp programs and what they see in the classroom post-trip.

Outdoor Education, Conference/Retreats, Executive/CEO, Resident Camp, Team Building

usINg pop Culture to CoNNeCt to studeNts aNd eNhaNCe your ee Classes ashley ritzheimer, program Instructor, frost Valley ymCaI will be leading discussion and hands-on activities related to using pop culture in EE classes and family programs.

Outdoor Education, Conference/Retreats

Why? taKINg a deeper looK INto your programs Chris ortiz, training Coordinator, high 5 adventureEven if your program has been around for a hundred years, it is important to take the time to define and understand the why behind the what your program does. Too often, our program design is marginalized by the profit margin and our missions are just a bunch of words on the wall of the facility. We will explore not only our program’s “why” but we will also look at creating our own personal belief statements to help us gain focus on our direction. In the words of Simon Sinek (who we will talk about), we have to “Start with Why”.

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Business/Operations, Conference/Retreats, Executive/CEO, Financial Development, Resident Camp, Team Building

tuesday 2:15-3:15pmsessIoN #5

room session title presenter

Geyer Room 1 Teen Programming: Keeping Camp Fresh and exciting for teens (13-15) Kam Kobeissi

Geyer Room 2 How To Talk To Parents - ft Kath Davies

Geyer Room 3 Annual Campaign Plan Basics Kathryn Dobbs

Geyer Room 5 Perfecting Your Facility Design George Painter

Groel Room Walk a Mile In My Shoes - An Experience of Diversity - Part 1 Faith Evans

Putnam Recreation Room Hey I Just Met You... Ann (Bro) Stanbrough, Michelle Giannola

Ruth Gottscho Dialysis Room Y Camping 2013 - Staying Relevant John Duntley

Huncosky Board Room Making The Most Of Your Camp Clothing Budget Mr. D’s Tees

Lakeview Common Room FAIL! The other four letter F-Word (Reframing Failure) David Carter

Plansoen Room Using Photo Journals as a Retention, Loyalty and Marketing Tool Tumble Weed Photo Journals

Partenheimer Lounge Composting at Frost Valley and beyond! Alison Fisk, Laura Finkle

Theater The Digital Voice Edward Jenkins

Landsberger Arts & Crafts Rock-n-Roll Revelations About Camp Connecticut Camp Guys

Margetts Zip lines, Adventure Parks, and ACCT standards, Oh My! High 5 Adventure Learning Center

teeN programmINg: KeepINg Camp fresh aNd exCItINg for teeNs (13-15) Kam Kobeissi, director of Camp henry hird, frost Valley ymCaHow do we keep camp exciting for older campers (13-15y/o)? What keeps your teens coming back? Bring & share your fun programming ideas as well as your amazing & unique camp traditions that keep your older campers engaged and excited about that next summer season.

Resident Camp

hoW to talK to pareNts Kath davies, Camp director, Camp hazen ymCaParents don’t bite…well, not unless they are protecting their young. This sessions is designed to take the fear away from talking to your campers parents. We’ll cover a plethora of things including: how to create a good first impression, how to ease parents’ concerns, how to deal with complaints, and how to talk to a parent when their child has been hurt. Come ready to share and learn.


aNNual CampaIgN plaN BasICs Kathryn dobbs, director of development, frost Valley ymCaWhether you’re part of an association or an independent camp, Annual Campaign success starts with the fundamentals. Learn basic campaign plan components and how to add on each year. We’ll review and share some examples. Come with questions and let’s talk solutions!

Executive/CEO, Financial Development

perfeCtINg your faCIlIty desIgN george painter, executive director, Camp Chingachgook/ Capital district ymCaLet’s start from scratch with your camp facility plan. What are the clear steps to take your camp property to a dramatic new level? What are the best practices and proven priorities for camp facility design from hundreds of YMCA Camps across America? Come hear about the philosophies and strategies that will help perfect your camp facility design.

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Business/Operations, Conference/Retreats, Executive/CEO, Financial Development, Resident Camp

WalK a mIle IN my shoes - aN experIeNCe of dIVersIty - part 1 faith evans, medParticipate in a powerful, experiential staff-training tool, which generates personal awareness, appreciation, and understanding of diversity and cultural differences in groups. Be ready for interaction, insights, and laughter!


hey I Just met you... ann (Bro) stanbrough, program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa michelle giannola, program Instructor, frost Valley ymCaThis session will illustrate that learning names is the key component into building connections, establishing rapport, and managing groups of all ages. Through personal stories and experiences, quick activities, handouts, and many laughs we will delve into the world of soft skills and their importance, leaving the room thinking...this is crazy.


y CampINg 2013 - stayINg releVaNt John duntley, ymCa of the usa, senior Camping specialist Join John Duntley, Y-USA Senior Camping Specialist, for an interactive session on keeping day camp and resident camp relevant for campers and their parents in today’s fast paced social environment. How do we accentuate and foster the learning power of camping, the opportunity to embrace nature, the navigation of social media and building relationships with parents? Hear what some of our Y colleagues are doing in these areas and many others. Come to share and discover!


maKINg the most of your Camp ClothINg Budget Ken dranoff, owner, mr d’s teesLearn how to avoid the many pitfalls of ordering camp clothing. Leftovers, sizing issues & theft are not something you should have to be concerned with. Learn what’s popular in colors and designs. Learn how to have your campers and staff wear their shirts year round and get the most value for your budget! This will be an interactive discussion with Kenn Dranoff, the owner of Mr. D’s Tees who has 30+ years of experience in the camping industry. Mr. D’s Tees is a licensed GSUSA, 4-H vendor and is familiar with YMCA logo standards. I will help you to sell your clothing in these difficult economic times and more importantly, how to get the best prices. There are many ways you can save costs without affecting quality. You will have the opportunity to present and share problems that you have had and learn ways to both overcome and avoid them in the future. I guarantee you’ll leave this session saving money for your camp!”

Day Camp, Business/Operations, Resident Camp

faIl! the other four letter f-Word (reframINg faIlure) david Carter, program Instructor, frost Valley ymCaThis presentation is about teaching facilitators the importance of allowing kids to fail without reacting in a way that makes failure unacceptable. The presentation is about recognizing the importance of letting kids problem solve, be independent, and struggle. Its also about how the facilitator can promote and teach participants to try their best and be honest. New facilitators often want the groups they are leading to have an experience free from failure; even if it means giving the participants the answers, making the activity easier, and allowing dishonesty. I believe the intention of these facilitators is to ease tension and frustration, and help the participants have fun. However, the amount of fun the group has is up to them and allowing dishonesty, giving answers, and making the challenge non-challenging gives the strong message that failure is not an option and its better to cheat to win than to lose with honor. By not allowing kids to problem solve or be independent we are depriving them from an opportunity to grow socially and mentally.

Team Building

usINg photo JourNals as a reteNtIoN, loyalty aNd marKetINg tool audi Novak, tumble Weed photo JournalsA direct look at the Photo Journal technology and a brainstorming session on how to implement tools like this for camp.


CompostINg at frost Valley aNd BeyoNd! alison fisk, outdoor Center director, ymCa Camp mason laura finkle, program director, ymCa Camp masonTake a tour of Frost Valley’s Resource Management Center, and learn about composting and recycling at their site. Take what you’ve seen, and learn how to implement similar systems at your site, on a scale that works for your facility. Consider options for how to incorporate composting and recycling into your Outdoor Education programming.

Outdoor Education, Conference/Retreats, Resident Camp

the dIgItal VoICe edward Jenkins, director of marketing, frost Valley ymCa This workshop will focus on social and digital media platforms, which will help optimize and enhance your camp voice and presence in the online and social space. It will also provide engagement techniques and multiple strategies to create and maintain online connections with program participants as well as community entities. During this presentation we will be focusing on the social media tool Facebook, and creating a “conversational” website.


roCK-N-roll reVelatIoNs aBout Camp Connecticut Camp guys mark pooler and patrick ConnellyThere is something magical and motivational about music and summer camp! This session will take a look at the connection between some of the most popular rock songs and the lessons we can learn from them about running summer camp. This is a high energy, fun and entertaining session that will have participants laughing, singing, clapping and tapping their feet as we reinforce some of the great lessons of summer camp!

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Business/Operations, Conference/Retreats, Resident Camp, Team Building

ZIp lINes, adVeNture parKs, aNd aCCt staNdards, oh my! Chris ortiz, training Coordinator, high 5 adventure The world of challenge courses is rapidly changing. Commercial “adventure” operations are cropping up all over the country including the Las Vegas Strip. Recently the 8th edition of the ACCT Standards for Challenge Courses & Canopy/Zip Line Tours was published. The ASTM F24 Amusement Rides and Devices Committee approved the first version of the Aerial Adventure Course Standard, which includes zip lines, ropes courses, challenge courses, aerial trekking courses, and canopy tours. But what does it all mean for you and your challenge course program? This workshop will give you an update on the challenge course industry from a vendor’s perspective and give the group a chance to discuss the effects and influences of these trends. It may not be exciting but it will be an interesting conversation


tuesday 3:30-4:30pmsessIoN #6

room session title presenterGeyer Room 1 Creative Solutions: Making the Brand Standards Work Edward Jenkins

Geyer Room 2 Programming with a Purpose: Asking the Whys and Hows of Camp and Conference Center Programming Nathan Brant

Geyer Room 3 Information Overload Craig Dawson

Geyer Room 5 Impact Measurement - Showing Camp’s Results Adam Shilling

Groel Room Walk a Mile In My Shoes - An Experience of Diversity - Part 2 Faith Evans

Putnam Recreation Room Few Minutes, Few Props, Big Results Alysse Dambach

Ruth Gottscho Dialysis Room Facilitating a Positive Staff Culture in you OEE Program Bob Eddings

Huncosky Board Room More Camp Less Desk Matt Brand, Ed Metzendorf

Lakeview Common Room Leading beyond Camp: Enhance your Practices and Protocols for Off-Site Programs Adventure Affinity Group

Plansoen Room Introduction to Teaching Forest Stewardship Benjamin Snyder

Theater 10 Things Every Camp Should Do On YouTube Travis Allison

Landsberger Arts & Crafts Turn this, into that.... Kirby Thompson, Ashley Ritzheimer

Margetts Twisted Team Building Flow Circus

CreatIVe solutIoNs: maKINg the BraNd staNdards WorK edward Jenkins, director of marketing, frost Valley ymCaDuring this discussion we will review creative applications of the brand standards which allow camps to keep camp marketing creative, individual, and brand compliant. Questions and collateral pieces are encouraged for discussion.

Please bring any questions and collateral you would like to share for feedback.


programmINg WIth a purpose: asKINg the Whys aNd hoWs of Camp aNd CoNfereNCe CeNter programmINg Nathan Brant, executive director, south mountain ymCaWhy do you offer the programs you offer? How do your programs meet your mission? Do you measure your effectiveness, in other words, do your programs do what you expect them to do? Take another look at your program offerings, add a few new ideas, and ensure that your programs make a positive difference in the lives of our participants.


INformatIoN oVerload Craig dawson, Camp director Camp Jewell ymCaDo you just love spreadsheets and numbers? Or are you the kind of person that runs in the opposite direction every time someone asks you

to compile a list of statistics for your board. Using real life examples this session will help you embrace why good data can help you make great decisions, and why simple retention numbers hardly scratch the surface of what you can learn with a little digging. In addition you’ll learn how great surveys can tell you how well your camp is really doing, the value of being able to compare yourselves to other camps, and why some questions you think matter…don’t tell you much at all. Learn how to use information to be more proactive in the future and how it can help you prove what your gut is telling you.

Business/Operations, Executive/CEO, Resident Camp

ImpaCt measuremeNt - shoWINg Camp’s results adam shilling, senior manager - Impact strategies, research and evaluationTelling your camp story to parents and donors with specific data on the areas of personal growth that your campers have experienced brings your youth development stories to a higher level of authenticity. Y-USA Research and Evaluation has first year results from the new Day Camp Impact Measurement tool to share and is now planning a similar tool for Resident Camp Impact Measurement. Join Adam Shilling, Senior Manager, Impact Strategies from Y-USA to learn more about how this survey tool can benefit you, your campers and your Y.

WalK a mIle IN my shoes - aN experIeNCe of dIVersIty - part 2 faith evans, medParticipate in a powerful, experiential staff-training tool, which generates personal awareness, appreciation, and understanding of diversity and cultural differences in groups. Be ready for interaction, insights, and laughter!


feW mINutes, feW props, BIg results alysse dambach, program Instructor, frost Valley ymCaIs your team restless during meetings? Are you in need of some amusing ideas for trainings? Are your teenagers bored? Do you just want some excitement during the day? Teambuilding happens with everything you do, so why not make it fun?

Picture this: Your meeting is underway and your staff is struggling to keep their eyes open. What do you do? Do you continue talking when they don’t hear a word you say? Do you lecture them, or do you play a game?

Picture this: You are given the task of teaching your summer staff how to work together. How do you accomplish this? Will they understand the concepts better if you tell them, show them, or engage them?

Picture this: You’re leading a trip of teenagers who are bored before dinner, after dinner, and every other time you don’t have a scheduled activity. What are you to do for entertainment? Teambuilding to the rescue!

Picture this: Your bus is 2 hours late to take you on your hike. What do you do with kids who don’t know each other? Did I hear getting to know you activities?!?!

While utilizing materials already in your bag, participants will not only learn but partake in group activities to be used on the trail or in your office. You will experience a progression of activities to do anywhere at anytime, starting with name games and ending with trust activities.

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Business/Operations, Conference/Retreats, Resident Camp, Team Building

faCIlItatINg a posItIVe staff Culture IN you oee program Bob eddings, director of school programs, frost Valley ymCaWe will define staff culture and discuss the reasons for the need for a positive staff culture. While it is easy to focus on the limitations to developing a strong staff culture, we will instead introduce simple ideas to give your staff a voice and ownership of their job and of their experience. After going over a few tried opportunities, we will discuss as a group other ideas to improve the staff culture at your camp.

Outdoor Education

more Camp less desK - demo sessIoN matt Brand, Camp and technology Nerd, Bunk1 ed metzendorf, principal, Bunk1Come learn about some new and exciting products from Bunk1. If you are looking for solutions that deal with “real camp problems” this is a great interactive way to learn about some new products that will WOW you and your customers. Bunk1 Rollcall and Camp Scheduling were both built by former camp and program directors with over 35 years in the field.

leadINg BeyoNd Camp: eNhaNCe your praCtICes aNd protoCols for off-sIte programs alysa austin, program director travel and service programs Kevin Bernstein, outdoor programmer, ymCa Camp takodah peter simmonds, director of outdoor education, ymCa Camp takodahDeveloping appropriate protocols for off-site programs and ensuring that staff are prepared to put them into action. Includes tips on writing good protocols, teaching decision-making for the field, how to set up a review process, and smart tools for following protocols.

Day Camp, Resident Camp, Travel & Adventure Programs Affinity Group

INtroduCtIoN to teaChINg forest steWardshIp Benjamin snyder, director of Natural resources and environmental science, frost Valley ymCaIncorporating forest and land management into your environmental education programs can be tricky. Take this opportunity to see forest stewardship in practice. Visit a recent timber harvest and see what a managed forest looks like. Join the discussion about negative and positive aspects of forest management. Participate in two activities that will help you teach about forest products that we use everyday and comparing forested and urban communities.

Outdoor Education

10 thINgs eVery Camp should do oN youtuBe travis allison, online marketing strategy advisorWith some time and a $100 video camera you can turn YouTube in to your main marketing channel. Follow these simple, proven strategies from outside of the summer camp market to separate your camp from your competitors. Take your marketing efforts to where the kids are - YouTube!”


turN thIs, INto that.... Kirby thompson, program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa ashley ritzheimer, program Instructor, frost Valley ymCaLearn how to upcycle items that may just be lying around. Turn an old T-shirt into a purse; a milk jug into a trick-or -treating monster; magazines into baskets & envelopes. All projects will be made with things that would otherwise be thrown out


tWIsted team BuIldINg paul miller, executive director, flow Circus dawn daria, education director, flow CircusBarriers are immediately broken down when balloons come out. Balloons can be twisted into colorful dogs, flowers, and hats. This workshop will teach participants the basics of balloon twisting while demonstrating how balloons can be used to encourage teamwork and creativity.


tuesday 4:45-6:15pmsessIoN #7spotlIght Camps In these sessions you will learn more about some of the camps throughout the northeast. The staff of the camps will touch on the following:

• Brief History

• Location

• Number of people served

• Budget Summary

• Registration Report

• Staff Structure Overview

• Types of Programs offered

• Description of Facilities

• Recent Successes

• Struggles ahead

• Photos, videos, website…

Choose 1 presentation in each rotation to attend.

rotatIoN 1 4:45-5:05Affinity Group Camp room

Trip & Travel YMCA Camp Chingachgook Kellogg Room

EE/OE YMCA Camp Mason Day Room

Resident Camp Camp Takodah Theater

Day Camp MetroWest YMCA Margetts


Trip & Travel Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA Kellogg Room

EE/OE YMCA Camp Chingachgook Day Room

Resident Camp Camp Abnaki Theater

Day Camp YMCA Camp Sloper Margetts


Trip & Travel New York YMCA Camp Kellogg Room

EE/OE YMCA Camp Ockanickon Day Room

Resident Camp Camp Jewell YMCA Theater

Day Camp YMCA Camp Lincoln Margetts

WedNesday 9:30-10:30amsessIoN #8

room session title presenterGeyer Room 1 Preparing Your Management Team Michael R. Garcia

Geyer Room 2 Promotion 101 - FT Shannon Donovan-Monti

Geyer Room 3 Debriefing Skills for Any Occasion Jason Marker, Phil Brown

Geyer Room 5 Wildlife Ecology and Tracking Hike Jesse Wells

Groel Room Stop Marketing To Yourself: Go after those the other camps are leaving behind Travis Allison

Putnam Recreation Room Astronomy: Rain or Shine Keith Hubbard

Ruth Gottscho Dialysis Room Wedding Bells are Ringing at Camp! Heather Siegel-Sawma

Lakeview Common Room Camps in Transition: How to build progression into adventure/trip camp programming Lincoln McLain, Dan Poole

Plansoen Room Training: Talk in the Morning, Play in the Afternoon, Inspire in the Evening! Josh Schupack

Theater Ditch the Brochure Adam Wallach, Michele Rowcliffe

Kellogg Room CEO Roundtable Discussion Jerry Huncosky

preparINg your maNagemeNt team michael r. garcia, senior director of Camp & saCd, farmington Valley ymCa & ymCa Camp Chase - Branch of the ymCa of greater hartfordWe do well training our front line staff but when it comes to training our seasonal management team we assume they know because they have been there for so long. This training will take you through some best practices on how to get your new management day camp staff up to speed to lead for you. What to expect…basic tips and techniques on the what to train as well as a sample management handbook. Come and listen and GIVE FEEDBACK on best practices on making 2013 the best season ever!

Day Camp

promotIoN 101 shannon donovan-monti, executive director, Chimney Corners Camp ymCaIn this session we will discuss best practices for filling your camp for the summer. Topics will include: knowing what you are selling, preparing frontline staff to sell your camp, home visits and other things you can be doing to spread the word about camp.


deBrIefINg sKIlls for aNy oCCasIoN phil Brown, adventure program Coordinator, New york ymCa Camp - greenkill outdoor education Center Jason marker, outdoor education director, New york ymCa Camp - greenkill outdoor education CenterThis session will focus on debriefing skills for any program at any time. Too often we miss the take home applications that happen in our programs and just let our participants make it up on their own, or worse just not have any take home value at all. Our goal is to bring these moments out with discussion of real life scenarios and discuss ways to bring meaning to those that we serve. We will discuss some teambuilding debriefing, but will also put a strong emphasis on general programs and conflict management. We want this session to be for any staff member in any department (OE, Day Camp, Residential Camp, etc.) to walk away with new skills or a stronger skill set. This will be an engaging session that will get participants involved with dialogues focusing on the actual how and why of debriefing skills.


WIldlIfe eCology aNd traCKINg hIKe Jesse Wells, program Instructor, New york ymCa Camp - greenkill outdoor education CenterThis session will get participants outside and moving around looking for any signs of wildlife and learning about adaptations and their habitat.

Outdoor Education

stop marKetINg to yourself: go after those the other Camps are leaVINg BehINd travis allison, online marketing strategy advisorWhen you look at your website carefully how much of the content is aimed at attracting clients that don’t know you and know nothing about summer camp? Is your newsletter written for people who are considering your camp or those who already attend? In this session Travis Allison will show you 5 marketing strategies aimed at reaching out to families who are not already your clients. The process is simple and can set you apart from other camps in your market.


astroNomy: raIN or shINe Keith hubbard, program Instructor, frost Valley ymCaWe’ve all been that situation before, there is not a cloud in the sky all day and a half hour before your astronomy lesson a blanket of clouds is pulled over the sky. You have a dining hall full of excited students and anxious teachers all waiting for you to lead them in the night’s activity. How can you lead an astronomy class with no stars to be seen? The session will provide astronomy activities/lessons/demonstrations that can be done during a night when the sky is not cooperating with your plans. Topics that will be covered are how and why there are constellations in the sky, why the moon goes through phases, and the Earth-moon relationship.

Outdoor Education

WeddINg Bells are rINgINg at Camp! heather siegel-sawma, ymCa Camp ChingachgookIt’s the perfect setting for many young couples - an outdoor wedding surrounded by beautiful trees or a scenic waterfront, with cabins for after the long day of festivities. Weddings at camp have become very popular over the past couple of years and is your facility ready to welcome these young couples? Learn about the logistics that are involved when hosting a wedding at camp, pricing for your location, and the questions of catering. Weddings are fun, but it may not be for every camp.

Business/Operations, Conference/Retreats, Executive/CEO

Camps IN traNsItIoN: hoW to BuIld progressIoN INto adVeNture/trIp Camp programmINg lincoln mclain, adventure director, frost Valley ymCa dan poole, adventure trip director, ymCa Camp ChingachgookPresenting on the importance and actual instillation of a healthy progression in a wilderness tripping program. Using their own programs as models to examine how internal competition and unclear next-steps in programs can work against long term sustainable growth. Ultimately in planning for the future an entire program should be clear and the youngest campers should have no doubt in their minds what the next decade of their lives should look like at camp. Anything that works against this clarity should be looked at critically. Dan and Lincoln will draw attention to these issues and paint a picture of program structure and progression excellence.


traININg: talK IN the morNINg, play IN the afterNooN, INspIre IN the eVeNINg! Josh schupack, sports and teen director ymCa of greater NashuaWhat you do and when you do it in staff training is incredibly important. It is also difficult to know how much staff are retaining during training. This session will talk about how to create each day of your staff training so that your staff will not only be knowledgeable, but be beyond excited to get started! You will be up and moving in this training, so be ready!

Day Camp, Resident Camp, Outdoor Education

dItCh the BroChure adam Wallach, sr. director of Camping & youth experiences, ymCa of greater rochester michele rowcliffe, executive director, Camp CoryCome learn how two camps (day & overnight) stopped mailing camp brochures and filled to capacity in 2012. Through maximizing the number of marketing touches and focusing on retention with a variety of new marketing tactics we served more campers than ever before. You will walk away from this workshop with a new prospective on marketing and a template that you can implement at your camp. And the best part is, this is a Do-it-Yourself marketing plan (no marketing dept. required) and guaranteed to save you money.


Ceo rouNdtaBle dIsCussIoN Jerry huncosky, Ceo, frost Valley ymCa Come talk with other CEO’s and Executives.

Executive/CEO

WedNesday 10:45-11:45amsessIoN #9

room session title presenterGeyer Room 1 The Benefits of a Master Site Plan Jim Brown, Arch Horst

Geyer Room 3 Importance of LNT Dylan Pollock

Geyer Room 5 The Future of YMCA CiT’s: Counselor In Training Programming and how to make it work for everyone Kam Kobeissi

Groel Room Getting Things Done as a Camp Director Travis Allison

Putnam Recreation Room Prop it up! Using Simple Props to Enhance Fun and Focus in Outdoor Programming Hannah Wilhelm

Ruth Gottscho Dialysis Room Camp Security Basics - Roundtable Shannon Donovan-Monti

Lakeview Common Room Challenges, On the Fly Fixes, and Helpful Ideas Bobby Thomas

Plansoen Room Sensory Quest Dan DeChellis, Anna Morelli

Margetts Running Better Games Jay Jaronko, Justin Hubeny

the BeNefIts of a master sIte plaN Jim Brown, Chief Operations Officer, Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA arch horst, architect & principal, Black river architectsThe Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA will share our Master Site Planning process that we went through in cooperation with Black River Architects. Specific examples of staff work that was done prior to engaging an outside architectural firm, methods of engaging volunteers and alumni in the planning, and the financial and programmatic benefits of having a MSP will be shared during the presentation. BCCYMCA is in our third year of implementing capital projects that reflect the planning and design guidelines of our MSP. The results have been fantastic! Having a clear vision for our buildings and grounds has helped to prioritize our investments so that we are “building what we need, but not more”, leaving sufficient programmatic resources for staff to deliver the mission for our organization.

ImportaNCe of lNt dylan pollock, program Instructor, New york ymCa Camp - greenkill outdoor education CenterWe will be discussing the importance of Leave No Trace. LNT is the practice of good ethics in the wilderness, and also in the front country. Although this is not typically offered as a class, LNT can be part of everyday disccussion on the trail or in the classroom.

This session will be informative, however be an opportunity to have a discussion on how to get kids/students to feel passionate about the ethics of this topic. It is easy to say “That is wrong.” This train of thought does not teach ethics. Conversely, it is a challenge to explain the consiquences of our actions. We will go over the seven LNT principles, and how to incorporate them into your everyday work.


the future of ymCa CIt’s: CouNselor IN traININg programmINg aNd hoW to maKe It WorK for eVeryoNe Kam Kobeissi, director of Camp henry hird, frost Valley ymCaThis is a summery of my 5 year exploration into CiT programming. We will recap what it is to be a CiT in the YMCA, who is supervising & training our CiT’s as well as take a look at Frost Valley YMCA’s format for a month long CiT training.

Resident Camp

gettINg thINgs doNe as a Camp dIreCtor travis allison, online marketing strategy advisorThe best way to relieve your stress is to feel control over your To Do list. By implementing a system such as David Allen’s Getting Things Done method camp directors can run a better summer camp.

Methods highlighted in this presentation:- capture everything to achieve a mind link water- focus on “next actions”” to move your work forward- control your email by implementing a couple of simple rules: turn off your notifications, only check email twice a day and set expectations.


prop It up! usINg sImple props to eNhaNCe fuN aNd foCus IN outdoor programmINg hannah Wilhelm, program Instructor, frost Valley ymCaHave you ever worked with a camper or student who carried around a stuffed animal everywhere? Have you ever had all the kids around you beg to be your helper and carry the one shovel, thermometer, or compass the group was bringing? Having an object to hold and use can be the difference between distraction and focus for some kids. Or, a simple tool can change an activity from a ho-hum assignment to a magical adventure. In this session, you’ll experience several hands-on games and science activities that use simple, inexpensive props. You’ll leave with your ownd small bag of props that you can copy and use in your programs.

Day Camp, Outdoor Education, Resident Camp

Camp seCurIty BasICs - rouNdtaBle shannon donovan-monti, executive director, Chimney Corners Camp ymCaIn this session we will compare notes about how each of us is responding to tragic events involving violence in our communities. We will provide the latest information from local, state and national authorities on how to prepare camps to respond in an emergency and how to prevent events at your facility.

Day Camp, Business/Operations, Resident Camp, Executive/CEO

ChalleNges, oN the fly fIxes, aNd helpful Ideas Bobby thomas, retreats CoordinatorJoin me in a round table type discussion about different aspects of retreats programing. We will delve into several topics including programing challenges, staffing issues, and specialty weekends. It will be beneficial to share ideas on these subjects between working professionals and who knows, you might even take home some good ideas.

Business/Operations, Conference/Retreats

seNsory Quest dan deChellis, program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa anna morelli, program Instructor, frost Valley ymCaSense Quest is an easy level hike that helps participants to focus on using all 5 senses to get an up close and personal experience with the natural world. There will be five activities, each one focused on using a particular sense in ways that attune them to the wilderness in a safe, but challenging environment.

Outdoor Education, Conference/Retreats, Resident Camp

ruNNINg Better games Jay Jaronko, outdoor Center program director, ymCa Camp sloper Justin hubeny, east Coast director, ymCa Camp sloperIn Running Better Games, you will learn how to modify the games you already know and love to better fit the YMCA’s Areas of Focus. We’ll review successful techniques for explaining rules, dividing campers into teams, and supervision while we introduce 6 games we’ve modified to great results. This is an active presentation, so be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes.


the speaKers

3 adVeNtures: Jeff daly, matt Buczek, scott Curry owners/directorsJeff Daly: Jeff has been involved in Camping for over 23 years! From Camper to Counselor to Camp Director, Jeff has seen it all. Jeff has previously worked as Director of Camping Services with the Frost Valley YMCA. In addition he has worked with the YMCAs of Philadelphia & Vicinity, and Global Camps Africa. Jeff also served as Executive Director of the Kennett Area YMCA in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. With a passion for youth development, Jeff has interviewed and hired thousands of camp counselors over his career and looks forward to providing outstanding service for camp experience. Jeff lives with his wife, Kelly, daughter Mary, and his dogs, Jango and Evie!

Matt Buczek: Matt has spent the last 19 summers at camp. From Oklahoma to New York, Camp Counselor to Maintenance Director to Camp Director, Matt has seen it and done it! Growing up in England, Matt attended University, gaining a bachelors in Financial Management and a Masters in Education. Matt worked as a teacher for 5 years. Matt has previously worked for the Frost Valley YMCA as Director of Camping services and Stonybrook Day Camp as the Camp Director. This diverse camp experience coupled with his experience hiring thousands of staff, means Matt knows what it takes to get the job done and what to look for in a staff member. Matt looks forward to providing first class service to camps and helping to provide a memorable summer experience. Matt lives with his wife, Paulann, dog, Oscar and his twin girls, Molly and Lily. He loves Soccer, Boxing and Home Improvement.

Scott Curry: It’s hard to believe that Scott has been administering international programming since 1986 - That’s more than 25 years! Scott has directed some of the biggest and most reputable exchange programs in the country, having previously worked at CDS International (now Cultural Vistas) and the International YMCA. This means Scott knows the J-1 Visa processes and regulations inside out and back to front. Scott’s relationships across the globe ensure a great pool of staff for 3 Adventures to share with our camps and employers. Scott lives in New York City with his wife, Lilik, and has a passion for fishing.

traVIs allIsoN [email protected] is a former Executive Director of 5 summer camps who now works as an online marketing strategy advisor who specializes in the private school and summer camp industries. Travis produces the CampHacker podcasts and blog, the Scott Arizala show, and manages the Summer Camp Professionals group on Facebook.

His motto: Consume Less and Create More. He hopes you’ll forgive him writing this all in the third person

alysa austIN program director ,travel and service programs, Becket-Chimney Corners ymCa [email protected] Austin is the Program Director for the Travel and Service Programs at the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA. Since 2005, she has been actively involved in the tripping world. Alysa has led trips for inner city

teens through the Christadora Foundation, guided sea kayaking trips in Northern Maine, and has traveled extensively on her own, living in Scandinavia, South America, and South East Asia. Alysa started working for BCCYMCA in 2007 as a trip leader and started in as Program Director in 2010 where she manages international partnerships with YMCAs in Armenia, Australia, Chile, China, Japan, New Zealand, Peru, Russia, Sweden, Uruguay, and Vietnam. Each year the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA engages just under 200 teenagers in travel programs that focus on service learning, cultural engagement, and leadership development.

KeVIN BerNsteIN outdoor programmer, ymCa Camp takodahBorn and raised in San Jose, CA, Kevin comes to Camp Takodah with a background in Adventure Tripping through working with San Diego State University’s adventure program from 2008 to 2012. Kevin began working for Takodah in June of 2012 as a Management Trainee and has soon transitioned into the Outdoor Programmer role where his passion continues to grow for connecting youth with the outdoors.

BreNt BIrChler Boys resident Camp director, ymCa Camp ockanickon [email protected] has spent the last 26 years of his life as a camper and staff member at YMCA Camp Ockanickon in Medford, NJ. He has learned most of what he knows at Camp and looks forward to sharing Camp’s values and traditions with a new generation of campers and staff each summer. Brent has directed the Boys Camp since 2005 and lives at Camp with his wife, his 2 daughters, and his dog.

matt BraNd Camp and technology Nerd, Bunk1 [email protected] has has been involved with camping for over 20 years including 2 years as the Director of Camp Tevya. The other part of his professional career has been spent as a software engineer for companies of all

shapes and sizes. He’s worked for startups before with less than 3 people and giant companies like HP with over 500,000 people. Matt is usually the biggest technology nerd at camp conferences and always the biggest camp nerd at technology conferences. He is married to a woman he met at camp (naturally) and has 2 daughters.

NathaN BraNt Ceo, south mountain ymCa [email protected] is surprised to find himself gainfully employed and still working with day and resident camps after 15 years. As CEO for the South Mountain YMCA Camps he has the good fortune to work with Camp Conrad Weiser, Bynden Wood Day Camp, and the Conrad Weiser Outdoor Center. Nathan is finishing his first book entitled “The Ultimate Summer Camp Theme Book.” Additionally, Nathan is compiling a series of essays by camp professionals tentatively called “Trail Heads: Thoughts on the Camping Profession.” Nathan lives and works at the South Mountain YMCA and is the proud father of 3 clever and beautiful daughters, Annalee Elizabeth, Dahlia Tru, and Gwyneth Claire. He is also the very lucky husband to his wife Kristi.

phIl BroWN adventure program Coordinator, New york ymCa Camp - greenkill outdoor education Center [email protected] is an Adventure Program Coordinator at Greenkill, specializing in challenge course facilitation and character development. He recently finished his ACCT Level 2 Practitioner Certification and is eager to share his love of teambuilding and facilitation with you. Phil hails from Ipswich, England and is now a citizen of America too. He has been married for almost one year and owns a ceramic dog. He is also a very big comic book afficianado.

JIm BroWN Chief Operations Officer, Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA [email protected] Brown is the Chief Operations Officer and Travel & Service Programs Director at the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA. He began his YMCA career in 1985 as a YMCA of the USA Young Professional Abroad, managing refugee programs for the YMCA in Zambia. Jim went on to become a Program Director at the Tokyo YMCA, and then Director for YMCA Camp Erdman in Hawaii. Jim has been working at the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA since 2000, and recently took on a key staff role in organizing and managing a group of volunteers and staff tasked with presenting a Master Site Plan proposal to our Board of Trustees. The current MSP for BCCYMCA was adopted in late 2010, and has helped our organization to better manage deferred maintenance projects, preserve historic buildings, and strengthen the rustic character of our camps.

daNI BroWN outdoor education program Coordinator and day Camp director, New york ymCa Camp (Camp greenkill) [email protected] Brown is originally from Clifton, New Jersey. She attended Ramapo College of New Jersey and graduated with a degree in Environmental Studies and minors in Environmental Science and Anthropology. She then went on to work at the New York YMCA Camp where she has been for the past 5 ½ years. During her time here she has held roles as a naturalist, Day Camp Program Director, and currently Outdoor Education Program Coordinator and Day Camp Director.

KIm BurroWs Camp director, ymCa of montclair [email protected] has been working at the YMCA of Montclair for 8 years. She spent 3 ½ years working part-time with the School Age Child Care department and 3 summers as the Voyagers Director at Camp at the Lake. Kim has been working full-time as the Communication & Curriculum Developer in the School Age Child Care department for the last five years. This is will be Kim’s fourth summer as the Camp Director/Outdoor & Environmental Education Coordinator, supervising Archery, Low Ropes/Challenge Course, Nature, Outdoor Living Skills & Outdoor Living Skills Specialty Camp, and Adventure Camp.

patrICK Carley senior account manager (Water sports specialist), raVe sports [email protected] began his career in the water sports and recreation industry in 1980 excelling in sales, communications, brand and product development and marketing. His extensive career began at Sun Sports in 1990 where he was considered the top sales representative. He then moved to Duvall for two years where he managed a new sales team. From Duvall Carley moved to Vice President of Sales at Straight Line Water Sports where he was fundamental in creating a new national brand and growing business relationships. Carley was then recruited to Connelly Water Sports Company as the National Sales Manager. Pat Carley is not new to RAVE. In 2000, he was recruited by RAVE Sports, Inc., where he worked for 7 years growing sales over 100 percent. He then moved on to a new role within the water sports industry, and has now returned to RAVE. Carley is also a Certified National Ski Patrol Instructor, a member of the National Ski Patrol and served on the board of the Water Sports Industry of America. He has an Associate of Arts degree in Industrial Marketing, and has raised 2 great sons, Ben and Ian.

daVId Carter program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] went to school in Northern California’s Humboldt State University and graduated in 2009 with a BA in Sociology. He minored in recreation and began doing team building in a Y-camp located in Sequoia National Park California 10 years ago. He worked at that camp for 6 summers and also did challenge coarse and team building in Croatia with international youth from at least 43 different countries. David has been working with kids from preschool to 12th grade. David learned about outdoor education a year after he graduated and has been working in that field since at facilities where he can combine his passion for environmental justice and individual impact along with his passion for building strong communities by teaching team building skills.

Ct Camp guys: marK pooler & patrICK CoNNelly mark pooler, outdoor Center director, ymCa Camp sloper patrick Connelly, sr. director of membership & programs, ymCa Camp Ingersoll Co-owners and Camp directors [email protected], [email protected] Pooler and Patrick Connelly have a combined total of over 30 years camp experience. As fulltime YMCA Camp Directors and co-owners of the Connecticut Camp Guys Consulting Group they use their successes and failures as a platform to share, educate and inspire other camp professionals. Their presentation style is fun, energetic and up- beat and provide useful information that is relevant in today’s world of camping. Both have presented at local, regional and national camp conferences for the YMCA, ACA and many other organizations. Feel free to learn more about the CT Camp Guys at www.ctcampguys.com

alysse damBaCh program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] has played games with students of all ages from the Marshall Islands to Rhode Island. She has taught Elementary Education, Math, and swimming in Delaware, ESL in the Marshall Islands, Algebra and swimming in New Jersey, Environmental Education in Rhode Island, community service in Tortola, and Outdoor Education and lifeguarding in New York. Alysse is using her Elementary Education/Middle School Math degree from the University of Delaware in her work at Frost Valley for the second year in a row and fourth year in the field.

Kath daVIes Camp director, Camp hazen ymCa [email protected] Davies is from a small village called Bransgore in England. She first came to Camp Hazen YMCA each summer while studying to be a Teacher. During the summers Kath was a Resident Camp Counselor, Land

Sports Program Director and Mosakwa Village Director as well as working as a facilitator with school groups in the spring and fall. After graduating in 2001 with a Bachelors of Education from Exeter University, Kath came to Hazen on a Multi-National Training Visa. Kath joined the Professional Staff of Hazen in 2002 as the Group Camping Director. She is currently the chair of the Connecticut YMCA Program and Membership Network, the Marketing Chair for they NEYCC, an American Camp Association visitor, and an ‘Organizational Leader’ on the YMCA Professional Development program.

daN deChellIs program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] DeChellis has been working with Frost Valley since the spring of 2011. He studied Outdoor Recreation at East Stroudsburg University and was an intern for the Great Smoky Mountain National Park at Cade’s Cove.

daVe deluCa Ceo, ymCa Camp ralph s. mason [email protected] DeLuca is the CEO at YMCA Camp Ralph S. Mason in Hardwick, NJ. He has spent 25+ years in the field of Y Camping and has worked at camps in Massachusetts, Vermont and Missouri in addition to New Jersey.

Dave holds a B.S. in Environmental Studies from the University of Connecticut. When not working he enjoys playing basketball and running on the trails at Camp Mason, where he regularly encounters all sorts of wildlife (from sluggish bears to bewildered deer to cantankerous squirrels).

KathryN doBBs director of development, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] Dobbs has made her career helping advance the mission of the YMCA. Born and raised in Canada, Kathryn attended North Georgia College and State University where she received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing. Through her work with numerous YMCAs around the country and her involvement with national conferences as a presenter and committee volunteer Kathryn is nationally known as one of the foremost thinkers in the YMCA movement. Kathryn’s efforts as Director of Development build a strong Frost Valley community of donors, volunteers and alumni. The combined effort of these communities, fostered by Kathryn, ensure we can provide the Frost Valley experience to hundreds of children and families who would otherwise not benefit from all that is Frost Valley YMCA.

shaNNoN doNoVaN-moNtI executive director, Chimney Corners Camp ymCa [email protected] has been the Executive Director of Chimney Corners Camp for 17 years.Shannon’s camp career started as a camper at Camp Christmas Tree YMCA Day Campin Minnesota when she was 5 years old and she has spent every summer since atcamp. She has worked at Camp Kici Yapi YMCA Day Camp in Shakopee, MN, CampSt. Croix in Hudson, WI, Camp Jewell YMCA in Colebrook, CT. Shannon is also theparent of a Camp Jewell and Chimney Corners camper. She lives in Lee, MA withhusband, Mik Monti and daughter, Bridget.

KeN draNoff owner, mr d’s tees [email protected] Dranoff is the owner and founder of Mr. D’s Tees-est. 1980. Screen printing, embroidery, digital printing, sign and banner printing all done on premises. Temple University graduate ACA business affiliate. Licensed GSUSA and 4-H vendor.

JohN duNtley ymCa of the usa, senior Camping specialist [email protected] Duntley is Y-USA’s Senior Camping Specialist. He has over 30 years of YMCA camping career experiences and a 7-year capital development consulting background with Ys across the nation. John’s depth of experience continues the advancement of best practices for day and resident camping as well as outdoor education, conference and retreat camp programs to support Y-USA’s strong commitment to YMCA camping. At Y-USA John is focused on the development of effective service delivery systems that meet the unique needs of our camping movement and relevant partnerships with national organizations that will keep YMCA camping on the forefront of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

BoB eddINgs director of school programs, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] has been working for the Frost Valley YMCA since the summer of 1993. Through a variety of roles in camping, Bob learned the importance of a positive staff culture to the delivery of your program goals and mission. While he worked in both resident and day camping, his most recent focus is with Outdoor Environmental Education. He studied both Elementary Education and received his Masters in Humanistic Education at SUNY New Paltz. Bob lives with his wife Andrea, his children Jack and Juliette and their dog Charlie in his home on property at the Frost Valley YMCA.

laura fINKle program director, ymCa Camp mason [email protected] Finkle joins us from Hardwick, New Jersey. She has worked at YMCA Camp Ralph S. Mason for three years as a Naturalist, Senior Naturalist and, most recently, as Program Director. She oversees staff and programming for both Outdoor Education and Summer Camp. Prior to joining the Camp Mason Family, Laura gained experience working for the New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry and the Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary in Tiburon, California. Her focuses of formal study are Ecology and Natural Resources and Education.

alIsoN fIsK outdoor Center director, ymCa Camp mason [email protected] works at YMCA Camp Mason as the Outdoor Center Director, taking responsibility for the schools, retreats, conferences and family camps that visit Camp Mason throughout the year. Her background is in Environmental Science and before joining Camp Mason, Alison worked for the Field Studies Council in England, providing Environmental Education programming to students of all ages.

floW CIrCus: paul mIller & daWN darIa paul miller, executive director, flow Circus [email protected] earning a degree in accounting, Paul Miller realized that he could have a much bigger impact on the world by sharing his unique brand of humor and playfulness (which didn’t really fit in the corporate environment). A self-taught juggler and performance artist, his influences include masters of silent film Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplain and physical stand-up comics such as Steve Martin and Robin Williams. Paul has toured his solo-show, Just Paul, across the US and recent credits include off-Broadway performances and Disney Cruise Lines. In 1999, Paul founded Flow Circus with a mission to promote active learning and play through the juggling arts. Since then he has taught thousands of tweens, teens, and adults to juggle and play with skill toys. Recent projects include the development of free educational resources such as FlowCircusKids.com and PlayFundama.com.

dawn daria, education director, flow Circus [email protected] [email protected] Dawn Daria joined Flow Circus in 2007. Prior to that, she utilized her B.S. in Psychology and M.Ed. in Secondary Education in a variety of roles such as camp counselor, outreach coordinator, and classroom teacher. With the recent release of her first book, Grounded for Good, she now adds writer to her skill set. As both an educator and author, Dawn works to instill a love of learning in the children, teens, and adults she encounters.

seth frIedmaN program manager, Interexchange Camp usa [email protected] was born and raised at a summer camp in New Jersey. He has participated in almost every aspect of camp starting at age five as a camper. At 16, he completed the Leadership In Training (LIT) program at Camp Vacamas and later worked his way up to Assistant Director. After receiving his Bachelor Degree in Psychology and Child Development from East Carolina University, he continued working with American youth. He worked with programs in several states including Nebraska, Nevada, Illinois, New York and New Jersey. After receiving his Masters in Public Administration from Baruch College he wanted to return to his first love, camp, and began working with InterExchange Camp USA.

mIChael r. garCIa senior director of Camp & saCd, farmington Valley ymCa & ymCa Camp Chase [email protected] August will mark Michaels 20th year inside the YMCA movement. He has run summer camp programs for inner city YMCAs as well as large traditional day camps in NY and CT. Currently running YMCA Camp Chase in Burlington, CT a part of the Farmington Valley YMCA. Throughout the rest of the year Michael works with the School-Age Child Development and Teen programs offered at the Y. One of Michael’s favorite things to do is spend time on a hike or camping with his wife and 10 year old son Max.

mIChelle gIaNNola program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] grew up in Michigan, frolicking through the woods building forts and searching for cattails in the river with her siblings and friends. Her passion of working with kids earned her a bachelor’s degree in English and Secondary and Middle School Education from Saint Mary’s College.

thad gIfford-smIth executive director, Camp Combe ymCa [email protected] 24-year veteran camp director, Thad is the Director of the Camp Combe YMCA. He has directed camps in urban, suburban and rural communities. He has been nominated for two Nobel prizes in summer camp directing and is the current regional middle-heavy weight staff training champion for the Northeast.

Jeff gleasoN director, ymCa Camp lincoln [email protected] the Director of YMCA Camp Lincoln, Jeff has learned some simple ways to keep the annual budget growing. His background in camping keeps him grounded while his pursuits of greater knowledge keeps his head in the clouds.

James goodger director of Camping Initiatives, ymCa of montclair [email protected] began his camping career as an International Camp Counselor at Campus Kids, NJ. After 12 years at the YMCA of Montclair, James is now the Branch Director of the Geyer Family YMCA, a recreational facility designed specifically for children ages 6 months-Kindergarten and their families. He also serves as the Ys 40 acre Outdoor Education Center Director, host to the Ys day camp, and the Director of Camping Services. James also enjoys his 3 hour a week Pre-School Physical Education Teacher job at the Montclair Community Pre-K where he is known as ‘Mr. James’!

Josh heImoWItZ executive program director, redwoods group [email protected] Heimowitz is the Executive Program Director for The Redwoods Group responsible for camps and Jewish community programs. Prior to joining Redwoods in 2011, Josh was an Executive Director for the YMCA of Honolulu, where he oversaw all operations and management for Camp Erdman. Josh has worked in various camp leadership positions for the YMCA since 1995. He holds a BS in Physical Education / Sports Management from Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania.

arCh horst architect and principal, Black river architectsArch Horst is an architect and principal with Black River Architects in Cambridge, MA. Black River Architects was founded in 1979 and its practice focuses on educational, cultural, retail and residential projects. Within the last three years the firm has completed four projects for YMCA camps (including a master plan, a lodge and three different camper cabins), a master plan for a Buddhist program facility and a master plan for an Episcopal Church campus. Other recent projects include educational, cultural, retail and residential projects in Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Missouri, Montana, Wyoming and California. Black River Architects collaborates with their clients to create buildings that represent a good value, respect the environment, lift the spirits of daily users and visitors alike and make organizations more effective and dynamic.

KeIth huBBard program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] native of Hamilton, Ohio Keith graduated from DePauw University with a degree in Physics. He has spent the last four years working at camps from California to Vermont and everywhere in between. Keith is in his first season as a Program Instructor at Frost Valley. When he is not working Keith enjoys reading, backpacking, and fishing.

JustIN huBeNy east Coast director, ymCa Camp sloper [email protected] Hubeny has been at YMCA Camp Sloper for 9 years. He is currently the East Coast Director. During the school year, Justin works at the Southington Community YMCA as the Youth Program Director where he oversees the Youth Sports and Outreach programs. Justin has been a YMCA professional for two years, and he is studying Exercise Science at Central Connecticut State University.

Jerry huNCosKy Ceo, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] Huncosky is the Chief Executive Officer of the Frost Valley YMCA. His career started in Green Bay, Wisconsin, as a college intern and summer trip leader. After graduation Mr. Huncosky started work for the YMCA of Greater New York Camping Services. He was later appointed to the role of Executive Director of Camp Fuller of the YMCA of Greater Providence and then Executive Director of Camp Grady Spruce with the YMCA of Greater Dallas. He has served as the CEO of Frost Valley since 2003.

Jay JaroNKo outdoor Center program director, ymCa Camp sloper [email protected] Jaronko has been at YMCA Camp Sloper for 10 years and is currently the Assistant Camp Director. When camp is not in session, Jay oversees outdoor programming at YMCA Camp Sloper including environmental education, team building, and character education. Jay graduated from the University of Connecticut in 2007, and has since enjoyed a career as a YMCA professional.

edWard JeNKINs director of marketing, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] Jenkins hails from New Orleans, Louisiana and has been associated with the YMCA for 5 years. His educational background is in Psychology & Communication; with a Masters Degree in International Policy. Before joining the YMCA Edward worked at Facebook for 2.5

years as Lead Strategist for Global Marketing Solutions. At Frost Valley YMCA Edward oversees all creative processes including marketing and communication & public relations.

daVe KauBIN outdoor recreation director, ymCa Camp ockanickon [email protected] Kaubin has been facilitating experiential and outdoor education programs for over five years in a unique Pinelands setting at YMCA Camp Ockanickon, Inc.

Kam KoBeIssI director of Camp henry hird, frost Valley ymCa [email protected]

megaN laWreNCe director of Camp Wawayanda, frost Valley ymCa [email protected]

Megan has been a part of the Frost Valley Summer Camp Team since 2008, acting as the Assistant Program Director for two summers and

as the Program Director for one summer and now as the Wawayanda Director. She graduated in 2009 with a degree in Summer Fun (Natural

Resource Based Recreation) from Michigan State University and is now working to complete her masters in Youth Development Leadership.

JasoN marKer outdoor education director, New york ymCa Camp - greenkill outdoor education Center [email protected] is the OE Director at Greenkill. He has a degree in outdoor education with an emphasis in ropes course management and group dynamics and has a background in therapeutic recreation before landing in the Y. He loves to work with people and take place in problem solving and brainstorming sessions. He has a wife of 12 years and 5 year old daughter, and a St. Bernard mix dog. He is also a fantasy football junky.

lINColN mClaIN adventure director, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] and raised in Kenwood, CA, Lincoln started working at Camp Manito-wish YMCA in Wisconsin during college and fell in love with getting kids into nature. From backpacking to teambuilding, nothing makes Lincoln happier than summer camp tripping. Lincoln brought his talents to Frost Valley YMCA, in 2011, when he started as Program Instructor and soon was promoted to Adventure Director. Lincoln loves all forms of wilderness exploration, though some would say his heart lies most with canoeing.

ed metZeNdorf principal, Bunk1 [email protected] Metzendorf is a principal with Bunk1and has served the camp industry for the past 15 years, prior to Bunk1 Ed was a director at Westcoast Connection Travel Camp.

aNNa morellI program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] Morelli studied Fine Arts at Kent State University. She has worked for the Y since 2005, and started her first year at Frost Valley in 2008. Some of Dan’s specialties are facilitating high ropes elements and hikes. Anna really enjoys facilitating team building initiatives and low ropes courses. In their off time, they both enjoy hiking, cooking over the fire, reading Kurt Vonnegut books, and working on fun personal projects.

audI NoVaK tumble Weed photo Journals [email protected] Novak has worked with the YMCA’s as a marketing vendor for well over a decade and is proud to be on the for front of launching this new product to move your campers memories from the digital world back on to the printed page.

ChrIs ortIZ training Coordinator, high 5 adventure learning Center [email protected] is High 5’s training coordinator with almost 20 years of experience in adventure education. He has worked with a variety of clientele, including schools, summer camps, universities, corporations and social service organizations. While he as developed and directed adventure programs in a variety of settings, including YMCA camps, his passion continues to be in training and sharing ideas with other practitioners. Chris regularly presents at regional, national and international conferences and is a contributor to High 5’s Adventures by the Handful Blog.

doNald padrICK teambuilding director, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] Padrick has over eighteen years of experience working with youth in residential treatment centers, schools, camps, and churches. He has conducted teambuilding workshops, group therapy sessions, staff development sessions, and hard and soft skills trainings. Don has worked with elementary, middle, and high school students, college and post graduate students, youth at risk, and business and human resources professionals. He has trained extensively with the following organizations: Project Adventure, High 5 Adventure Learning Center, American Red Cross, American Mountain Guides Association, Professional Ski Instructors of America, and Wilderness Medical Associates. Don holds multiple certifications, including Challenge Course Facilitator and Challenge Course Manager.

george paINter executive director, Camp Chingachgook/ Capital district ymCa [email protected] has been passionately working for YMCA Camping for 41 years. He is the director of Camp Chingachgook on Lake George in the Adirondack Mountains and his efforts in facility design and master planning have guided a $7 million investment in the YMCA property. George is the founder of the North American Camp Maintenance and Food Service Conferences on Lake George.

Jeremy plaNe assistant Camp director, ymCa Camp abnaki [email protected] studying education at the University of Vermont, Jeremy Plane’s life changed forever when he decided to work at YMCA Camp Abnaki. He has worked at all levels of management at camp, and is the current secretary for the Vermont Camp Association.

dylaN polloCK program Instructor, greenkill outdoor education Center [email protected] recently co-led his first NOLS trip in the Wind River Range of Wyoming. In that time recieved a master educator in LNT. For the past two summers he spent his time at Camp Dudley leading rockclimbing and farm to plate trips, which help kids understand how food comes from the ground to their dinner table. During the school year he facilitates groups at the New York YMCA Camp.

daN poole adventure trip director, ymCa Camp Chingachgook [email protected] from the UK, Dan began working at Camp Chingachgook in the spring of 2002 through the Outdoor Education and Summer Camp Programs. Dan began leading trips at Chingachgook in 2006 and soon transitioned into assisting to run the trips program on a year round basis before eventually solely running the program. He feels very fortunate to call the Adirondacks his home.

BIlly raNKIN Camp director, ymCa Camp Chingachgook [email protected] has spent the last 11 years working for the YMCA, beginning as a Youth Sports Coordinator at the YMCA of Greater Louisville. He also worked for the Chicago Metropolitan YMCA as Camp Director of Camp Pinewood, where he lived for 8 years. Billy is the current Camp Director at YMCA Camp Chingachgook, and oversees the hiring and application process for over 160 seasonal staff and 80 CITs each year.

ashley rItZheImer program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] is from Liverpool, NY, and graduated from SUNY Plattsburgh with a degree in Social Work. She also has a Master’s in Environmental Education from NOVA Southeastern. Ashley has been at Frost Valley YMCA for 3 seasons, and previously worked at the Rock Eagle 4-H Center and Pali Institute. Ashley loves all things Muppets, reading, and baking.

harry roCK Director, Office of YMCA Relations and Professional Studies, Springfield College [email protected] of YMCA Relations and YMCA Professional Studies at Springfield College. A 31 YMCA professional starting with the Y as a CIT at Camp Hazen and then working every summer through high school and college as a camp counselor. Hired as a Y day camp director the summer following college graduation for a number of years prior to joining the YMCA profession full time. Harry was married at Camp Hazen. He has worked for YMCAs in Connecticut, New Jersey and Massachusetts where he was the CEO of the YMCA of Greater Westfield prior to joining the YMCA of the USA to work at Springfield College where he focuses his time on recruiting, educating and placing students to Y positions as the next generation of leadership for the YMCA movement.

mIChele roWClIffe executive director, Camp Cory [email protected]

Josh sChupaCK sports and teen director ymCa of greater Nashua [email protected]

Josh is the Sports and Teen Director for the YMCA of Greater Nashua in NH. He runs 2 summer camps at the Nashua Y: Camp Ludus: a youth

Sports Camp and the Quest: a camp for Teens to develop into leaders. Josh grew up attending and working at the Becket-Chimney Corners

YMCA and attended Springfield College; earning a Bachelors in Psychology and a Masters in Psychology of Organizational Change.

Joshua sCott aquatics & training Coordinator, Kennebec Valley ymCa/Camp KV day Camp, training director, ymCa Camp of maine [email protected] Scott is the Aquatics & Training Coordinator for the Kennebec Valley YMCA and assists in directing Camp KV Day Camp He is also the part-time Training Director for the YMCA Camp of Maine. He has 12 years aquatic & waterfront experience. He has worked in a variety of aquatic and waterfront leadership roles from waterfront director, to YMCA aquatic director, to Asst. Conference & Environmental Education Coordinator. He holds certifications in Swim Lesson Instructor Trainer, Lifeguard Instructor Trainer, Small Craft Safety Instructor, BLS & First Aid Instructor Trainer, Nationally Registered EMT, and Aquatic Management.

toNy sharIllo ymCa Camp Ingersoll director, ymCa Camp Ingersoll [email protected] Sharillo has been involved in the YMCA for over 16 years working at the Northern Middlesex and the Greater Waterbury YMCAs. His diverse experiences include working as the Youth and Family Director, School Age Child Care Director, and Camp Director. He earned a degree in Child Psychology from the University of Connecticut and holds his Team Leader Certification with the YMCA of the USA. As an active

member of the Connecticut Membership and Program Network, AYP Chapter 3, and Connecticut After School Network he has led hundreds of groups through a variety of trainings all backed up by “real life” experience.

adam shIllINg senior manager - Impact strategies, research and evaluation y-usa research & evaluation

heather sIegel-saWma groups program director, ymCa Camp Chingachgook [email protected]

Heather has been with YMCA camping since 2003 and has found many friendships along the way. She has been with Camp Chingachgook

since 2007 and loves working with all the guests who come during the “off-season”. When she is not in the office you can find her running or

at her house with her husband and four cats baking.

peter sImmoNds director of outdoor education, ymCa Camp takodahPeter serves the Cheshire YMCA as the Director of Outdoor Education, overseeing Takodah’s Adventure Camps, spring and fall Outdoor Education Programs, and shoulder-season rentals for user groups. Peter has a degree in Geographical Sciences from the University of Portsmouth in England, and worked as Boys Camp Assistant Director at Camp Thunderbird in Minnesota and as a Program Coordinator with Wilderness and Training Expertise in the UK before arriving at Takodah in 2011. Peter has a rich background in Outdoor Leadership and is an avid outdoor enthusiast.

BeNJamIN sNyder director of Natural resources and environmental science, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] Snyder is from Neoga, Illinois and has worked at Frost Valley YMCA since 2003. He attended Southern Illinois University where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Forestry and a Master of Science Degree in Forestry – Recreation Management. Prior to working at Frost Valley, Benjamin worked for the U.S. Forest Service, Custer State Park, Southern Illinois University, and the Army Corps of Engineers. He oversees forest stewardship, the trail system, maple sugaring, environmental research, mapping and Geographic Information Systems, and the Hunt/Hike/Fish Memberships.

aNN (Bro) staNBrough program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] has been playing games and fooling around in trees at Frost Valley for three seasons, and has been in the Outdoor Education field for the past 14 years. While earning her bachelor’s degrees from California State University-Chico in Outdoor Education and Outdoor Leadership, she also spent time doing service work at Muir Woods, Yosemite, King’s Canyon and Alcatraz. Bro has also spent time hiking in the Sierra Nevada’s, canyons of Utah, and in the snows of South Lake Tahoe.

daVe staNtoN president, american sail [email protected] Stanton is President of American Sail, one of the Industries leading builders of sailboats used in camp learn to sail programs. Over 40 years of involvement with camp sailing programs. Past chairman of the National Sailing Industry Association for 3 terms and the 2002 recipient of the Sailing Industry Leadership Award.

aNdy sZymCZaK farm Camp director, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] name is Andy Szymczak and I am the Farm Camp Director here at Frost Valley. I grew up as a camper starting as far back as 1989. I began working in 2001 and have worked full time and seasonally as a counselor, unit leader, year round program instructor, three summers as the Assistant Director of Camp Wawayanda, and two summers as the Farm Camp Director. I come most recently from Seattle, WA where

I was working in the field of urban forest restoration and prior to that as a student at Sterling College in Craftsbury Common, VT which is best known as a major hub of the local food movement. I love learning, I love teaching, and I love providing a unique camp experience that connects campers to their food in a direct way.

WIllIam therrIeN Camping services director, Cheshire ymCa / Camp takodah [email protected] is currently the Camping Services Director with the Cheshire YMCA and Camp Takodah, where he has spent the last 29 summers. Before becoming a Camp Director, Willy worked as the Assistant Director with the Hulbert Outdoor Center’s School Program and as a founding faculty member at the Rising Tide Public Charter School in Plymouth, MA.

BoBBy thomas retreats Coordinator, New york ymCa Camp [email protected] has worked for the YMCA for 7 years in Alabama, North Carolina, and now New York. He has a great love for YMCA camping and the positive values it instills in people. Although a veteran in summer camp and Environmental Education, Bobby thoroughly enjoys working with Retreat Programing. He is currently the Retreats Program Coordinator for the New York YMCA Camp and is very content and excited about future endeavors.

KIrBy thompsoN program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] Thompson is from Gilbert, PA and graduated from East Stroudsburg University with a degree in Environmental Studies. She has taught Environmental Education in many states including Alabama and South Carolina. On her free time, Kirby likes to snuggle with her pot bellied pig Oliver, and her puppy Nugget. She also likes to read, knit, cook and do arts and crafts.

adam WallaCh sr. director of Camping & youth experiences, ymCa of greater rochester [email protected] have enjoyed the last 30 summers at camp as a camper, staff members, and full time director. Prior to working for the Y, I spent 10 years with one of the premier northeast camp groups as a year-round director. For the past 3 years, I’ve worked for the YMCA of Greater Rochester as the Director at Camp Bay View, which serves 500 campers daily and was instrumental in many association-wide camping initiatives. I have enjoyed tremendous success at the Y, applying lessons and best practices from my career in the private camp industry including increasing enrollment by 100% and implementing a dynamic new program which led to camp being sold out the last 2 summers.

JoaNNa WarreN-smIth Camp Consultant [email protected] has evaluated hundreds of not-for-profit and private camps. As a result, she has acquired a unique industry perspective of best business practices. Joanna has worked with YMCAs all over the country to enhance product quality and increase participation in both day and resident camps as well as year-round programs. She understands the culture of the Y and is passionate about the positive impact that a quality camp experience can have on a child. Ongoing focus groups with children, teens and parents have enabled Joanna to understand their expectations of camp, what motivates families to inquire, purchase and return. Through individualized strategies, Joanna has enabled new programs to develop, assisted troubled businesses in their efforts to survive and has been instrumental in the continuing success of established camps and year-round operations.

Jesse Wells program Instructor, greenkill outdoor education Center, New york ymCa Camp [email protected] has been a program instructor at Greenkill for over 2 years. He has a degree in outdoor education from Ohio University and has a strong affinity for all things wildlife. Some may say that going out in the woods with Jesse is much like being out in the woods with the animals themselves.

haNNah WIlhelm program Instructor, frost Valley ymCa [email protected] Wilhelm leads environmental education, teambuilding and family conference programs at Frost Valley YMCA. She graduated from Bryn Mawr College in 2005. Since then she’s been teaching science programs at museums and nature centers in addition to conducting water quality research in Maine.

meet our spoNsors 3 adVeNtures INterNatIoNal Camp staff matthew Buczek www.3adventures.com • 845-706-1603 • [email protected]

3 Adventures matches qualified, motivated people from across the globe with summer camps in the USA. Our recruiters have extensive camp experience and select only the most qualified applicants. 3 Adventures is run by Camp Directors who provide a high quality, personal service at a fantastic price.

amerICaN saIl, INC. david stanton www.americansail.com • 843-552-8548 • [email protected]

American Sail is a builder of quality small daysailers and catamarans ideal for teaching beginning sailing. We sell factory direct to the camp market at a discount and have many parts and resources for other makes and models of sailboats both in and out of production

BolduC’s apparel todd adelson www.bolducs.com • 413-786-9960 • [email protected]

Bolduc’s Apparel is a provider of summer camp apparel. We provide full service art/design and all products are produced in our Agawam, MA production facility. Bolduc’s is able to complete orders in season in a timely manner. We also provide a full apparel consultation “Roadshow” at your camp. This enables our clients the ability to design their summer camp apparel right on site.

CampsIte scott schwartz www.campmanagement.com • 516-336-6548 • [email protected]

CampSite by EZFacility is a web based camp database management system that allows operators to focus on what’s really important...their campers! CampSite provides camper and staff management from inquiry through enrollment and hiring.

CCusa michael Cahill ccusa.com • 413 225 3192 • [email protected]

The Summer Camp Specialist since 1986, CCUSA has placed more than 100,000 international staff from 60 countries in more than 1000 summer camps across the United States. CCUSA is designated by the U.S. State Department as an official exchange visitor program sponsor. CCUSA provides pre-screened and highly qualified participants seeking to work as staff members at your camp. Our applicants from around the world will help diversify and improve your camp culture. CCUSA has a wide variety of applicants allowing you to recruit for specific skills or review general applicants who possess the maturity and relevant work experience to make a difference at your camp. CCUSA keeps your costs low while paying participants some of the highest “pocket money” to provide you with the best and brightest international staff.

dIgIgames, INC thomas dorsher www.digigames.com • 701-710-0034 • [email protected]

DigiGames, Inc. - TV Trivia Game Show Simulations Every night millions of people watch TV shows like Minute to Win It, Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, and Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader. It is obvious that people cannot get enough game shows! Who doesn’t sit at the edge of our chairs shouting out answers? Bring this excitement to your YMCA organization with a DigiGames system. Our systems are fun, entertaining, educational. DigiGames produces a variety of computer based and stand-alone wireless buzzer options and gaming consoles. Our systems are easy to learn and operate but most important is the support you can expect from us anytime you need it.....for life!

eZfaCIlIty hugh mcevoy www.ezfacility.com • 516-336-6527 • [email protected]

EZFacility streamlines the daily operation and management of gyms and health clubs, providing an immediate and substantial return on investment. Scheduling, billing, and member-management has never been simpler with an easy-to-use interface. Now EZFacility offers MemberMe, a mobile app where members can access your business while they’re on the go.

INterexChaNge Camp usa seth friedman interexchange.org/campusa • 917-305-5491 • [email protected]

InterExchange Camp USA connects qualified international participants, ages 18-28, with work opportunities at U.S. summer camps in counselor or support staff positions. We also sponsor the J-1 Visa for approved returning participants and candidates who have found their own camp jobs.

mr. d’s tees Kenn dranoff www.mrdstees.com • 888-343-8337 • [email protected]

Mr. D’s Tees is a screen print and embroidery company celebrating its 33rd year in the camping industry. Our in house art department has many unique desins for you to choose from or we can help you create a design with your ideas. Quick reorder time and competitive pricing.

raVe sports patrick Carley ravesports.com • 651-255-4811 • [email protected]

RAVE Sports manufactures large commercial grade Water Play Structures, Water Trampolines and Bouncers,SUP Paddleboards, Towabales, and recreational Pool Floats and Lounges.

smaller earth/Camp leaders Christina ertel www.campleaders.com • 352-250-6369 • [email protected]

Camp Leaders has been providing opportunities for participants to have meaningful cultural exchange opportunities at American summer camps since 1999. We’ve built a strong reputation in the summer camp industy based on the quality of our applicants, customer service, innovation, and value.

the BraIN shoW Jeff o’lear www.thebrainshow.com • 877-676-9741 • [email protected]

The Brain Show is as close as you can get to a real live TV Game Show. It’s educational as much as it is fun. All campers will compete on teams as we test their knowledge in subjects such as Math, Science, History, Language arts, Geography etc... as well as Sports, Music, and Pop Culture. The Brain Show also has a wonderful “Teamwork” meassage and is used by some of the worlds leading companies such as NOVARTIS Pharmecueticals for team building motivationbal programming.

the redWoods group Josh heimowitz http://redwoodsgroup.com • 800-463-8546 • [email protected]

The Redwoods Group is a social enterprise that uses insurance and risk management solutions to make the world better. We changed the traditional insurance model so that our everyday work can help change lives. At the heart of our model is our mission—to serve others.

tumBleWeed photo JourNals anna eder www.tumbleweedphotojournals.com • 303-886-6382 • [email protected]

Call It Priceless. We all know that building strong relationships is about making connections and keeping them. Welcome to Tumbleweed. We’ll help turn your photo assets into photo journals, filled with experiences you provided—and your clients loved. So there’s no confusion, we brand the book with your logo. Whether you give it away or sell it, this personalized keepsake comes from you, the one who made the memories possible. Which means every time they open it, they think of you.

floW CIrCus paul miller www.flowcircus.com • 919-426-9157 • [email protected]

Flow Circus promotes active learning and play through the juggling arts.

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2013 NeyCC CommIttee memBers

ChaIr: dan Weir, frost Valley ymCa

VICe ChaIr: shannon donovan-monti, Chimney Corners Camp ymCa

marKetINg – suB-ChaIr: Kath davies, Camp hazen ymCaMarketing Sub Committee Members:

Michele Rowcliffe, Camp Cory YMCAChris Smith Camp Shand YMCAHeather Siegal-Sawma, Camp Chingachgook YMCA

CoNfereNCe program suB ChaIr: dan Berg, Camp Becket ymCaConference Program Sub Committee Members:

Conference program Vice-sub Chair: Tony Sharillo, Camp Ingersoll YMCAJeff Gleason, Camp LincolnBilly Rakin, Camp Chingachgook YMCAJason Marker, New York YMCA Camp

partICIpaNt eNgagemeNt suB ChaIr: thad gifford smith, ymCa Camp CombeParticipant Engagement Program Sub Committee Members:

James Goodger, Geyer Family YMCAJill Makkay, Hamilton Area YMCAKayla Smith, Community YMCA

affINIty groups suB ChaIr: Nathan Brant, south mountain ymCa

leadershIp deVelopmeNt suB ChaIr: mark pooler, ymCa Camp sloper

fINaNCe CommIttee: adam Wallach, rochester ymCa

sIte hosts: laura Johnson, Bob eddings, Vicky Williams, frost Valley ymCa

preVIous ChaIr: dave deluca, ymCa Camp mason

affINIty groupsResident Camp Affinity Group: Kam Kobeissi & Jake Lasher

Day Camp Affinity Group: Adam Wallach, James Goodger, & Jill Makkay

Travel and Adventure Affinity Group: Alysa Austin

Camp Conferences & retreats: Joe Elliott & Todd Brinkman

Outdoor Education Affinity Group: Jason Marker & Bob Eddings

No

rth

east

YM

CA C

am

p Co

Nfe

reN

Ce Conf

eren

ce to

Con

nect

Janu

ary

27-2

9, 2

014

at F

rost

Va

lley

yM

Caht

tp://

neyc

c.or

g/

fro

st V

alle

y ym

Ca 2

00

0 F

rost

Val

ley

Road

, Cla

ryvi

lle, N

Y 1

27

25

tel

845

-985

-229

1 fa

x 8

45-9

85-0

056

WeB

fro

stva

lley.

org

Fros

t Val

ley

YMCA

is a

not

-for

-pro

fit

50

1(c

)3 o

rgan

izat

ion

who

se m

issi

on is

to

put

Jude

o/Ch

rist

ian

prin

cipl

es in

to p

ract

ice

thro

ugh

prog

ram

s th

at b

uild

hea

lthy

spi

rit,

min

d an

d bo

dy f

or a

ll.

northeast ymca camp conference - frost valley...

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