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Southeastern Fall Conference - Day 1

-9/29/2020

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Tuesday

09/29/2020 8:30 AM
Opening Keynote with Jed Dearybury

General Session -9/29/2020

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Opening Keynote - The Power of Play For ALL Ages

09/29/2020 9:00 AM
Do you want your campers to connect with each other as a team? Do you want your learning space to encourage collaboration? Does your camp curriculum create learners who are risk-takers? Do you want your students to build up one another? If you answered yes to any of these questions, join me for this community development keynote where we will dive headfirst into the deep end of social-emotional learning that playful learning can provide. We will discuss tips and tricks, review resources, and practice our own bit of community building as we learn about the power of play for ALL ages.

Jed Dearybury

Jed began his education career in 2001. During his 13-year early childhood classroom tenure, Jed received numerous awards. He was featured in GQ Magazine as Male Leader of the Year, met President Obama as the SC winner of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, and was named as a top 5 finalist for South Carolina Teacher of the Year because of his passion, love, and success in education. Since leaving the classroom in 2015 he has been leading professional development across the country, as well as training the next generation of educators through his work with Higher Ed. As of August 2019, he is the Director of Creativity and Innovation at mrdearybury.com LLC. His mission: Equip, Encourage, Empower the teaching profession using creativity, laughter, and hands-on fun!

Advertising for Summer 2021

Concurrent Session -9/29/2020

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Advertising for Summer 2021

09/29/2020 11:00 AM
Welcome to the new trendless era of advertising — impossible to forecast sentiment, plan for cultural shifts, or tap into consumer insights. When the house is always on fire, it’s hard to get anyone’s attention. So, let’s walk the line between outright promoting your program like it’s 2019 and being sensitive to the culture of COVID-19. Let’s forget the hype, lean into market position, connect with consumers digitally, and focus on share of voice.

Kelley Freridge

Kelley Freridge - Chief Marketing Officer - American Camp Association
Kelley Freridge is the Chief Marketing Officer for the American Camp Association.  With 10 years of senior leadership roles in the outdoor industry at Eastern Mountain Sports, Patagonia, and Chaco, she brings consumer insight and digital savvy to her role with ACA.  As a National Outdoor Leadership School graduate and mother, Kelley recognizes the essential value of outdoor experience in developing tomorrow’s leaders and is passionate about passing down this cornerstone to the next generation.

 

Camp Budgeting and Financial Statement for Beginners

Concurrent Session -9/29/2020

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Camp Budgeting and Financial Statement for Beginners

09/29/2020 11:00 AM
Are you responsible for submitting a budget to a supervisor or Board of Directors? Do terms like accumulated depreciation, fixed assets, accounts payable, accrued basis, cash basis, liabilities, net assets, and cash flow confuse you? They should if you were not an accounting major. This session will cover the basics you need to prepare your budgets and read your financial statements.

Russ Link

Russ Link - Executive Director - Camp Olson YMCA
Russell has been the executive director of Camp Olson YMCA (an Independent YMCA Camp) for the past 18 years. Camp Olson YMCA is a summer-only camp with an annual operating budget $1.5 million. Camp Olson YMCA is located on 1,350 acres in the heart of lake country in North Central Minnesota. Like many typical camp staff members, Russ spent his summers during college working at a camp. Russ spent these summers enjoying the outdoors at the Wisconsin Lions Camp in central Wisconsin near Stevens Point. It was at camp where he met his wife Jolene. In 1987 Russ became the assistant director of the Wisconsin Lions Camp, and in 1998 he accepted the director position, where he stayed until 2003. Russ is currently a Y-USA Camping Cabinet Member and also served on the Small/Mid-Size YMCA cabinet for three years. He has been a member of the American Camping Association since 1987 and served as vice president on the ACA, Northland Section Board of Directors and has been an ACA standards visitor for 30 years. Russ served as chairperson for the Conference of Lions Camps of the United States in 2002 and secretary from 1990–1995. Russ was drawn to Camp Olson YMCA because of the rich tradition of honoring the environment and its strong emphasis on family values. Russ has worked to preserve over 260 acres of the camp’s property in conservation easements that have provided over $1 million in revenue for the camp. Russ believes that a camp experience is important for every child. “I am who I am because of my camp experiences.” Russ lives at Camp Olson YMCA in Longville, MN, with his beautiful wife Jolene and twin sons, Connor and Micah, who both work at camp during their summers home from college.

Staff Culture: Your Values in Action During Uncertain Times

Concurrent Session -9/29/2020

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Staff Culture: Your Values in Action During Uncertain Times

09/29/2020 11:00 AM
The only thing certain about the world we live in is uncertainty. This was true before COVID-19 and will always be part of the human experience. Not reassuring, but 100 percent accurate. When it is hard to determine what to do next, the one thing that can be controlled in challenging times is our response. We invite you to reflect on where you’ve been in order to develop a plan for where you are going (even though the future is unknown). We want to empower you to act with confidence for continuous growth amidst uncertainty and avoid panic leadership. Join us for ideas to prepare yourself to align your values to create the staff culture your camp needs.

Kim Aycock Jolly Corley

Kim Aycock - speaker/trainer/educator/consultant
Kim Aycock, MST, has 35+ years of experience developing young people with skills robots are unable to do. While blending the talents of a master teacher with the knowledge of a seasoned camp expert, Kim ignites the learning for varying levels of campers and staff worldwide through her interactive and innovative presentations. Kim speaks at regional and national conferences, contributes regularly to Camping Magazine and ACA blogs, and serves as co-chair of ACA’s Project Real Job Committee.

Jolly Corley
Jolly Corley, M.S. works each summer developing 150 emerging leaders to create a dynamic and thoughtful camp culture through staff development. Using games, theatre and life experiences she prepares staff to understand that our own experiences are the most useful tools for reflection and growth to a solid foundation in becoming leaders for life. Her work takes her around the world providing training to develop a staff culture that promotes personal and professional growth. Check out jollycorley.com for more information.

The Kid's Club: Developing Intentional Programming through Clubs for Camps & After-School Programs

Concurrent Session -9/29/2020

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The Kid's Club: Developing Intentional Programming through Clubs for Camps & After-School Programs

09/29/2020 11:00 AM
Both camps and after-school programs often struggle with designing engaging experiences while balancing the duties of the day. Clubs, formatted as interest and inquiry-based programs, offer unique methods of increasing both camper & staff interest and engagement. This session, brought to you by practitioners working in after-school, day camp, and out-of-school-time activities fields will demonstrate the potential for connection through clubs across programmatic structures both in-person and virtually.

Katie Thurson - Clemson University

Katie Thurson is a longtime camp person and current graduate student in Clemson's Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management program. She also works for the YMCA of Easley, Pickens, and Powdersville as a site coordinator.

Dining Hall Discussions - with Henry DeHart

Networking -9/29/2020

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Dining Hall Discussions - with ACA's COO Henry DeHart

09/29/2020 12:00 PM
Come connect with ACA's Chief Operations Officer - Henry DeHart. Henry will reflect on lessons learned from COVID-19 this past summer and our current assumptions for summer 2021. He will also share highlights on ACA's strategic plan, data collection, and updates to the Field Operations Guide.

Henry DeHart

Beyond the Walk and Talks

Concurrent Session -9/29/2020

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Beyond the Walk and Talks

09/29/2020 1:00 PM
Do you provide a nature walk that just isn't making your campers/participants really excited? Join us to explore ways to go beyond the walk and talk nature hikes. We will provide you with some techniques to turn those walks into engaging and learning experiences that children and adults will enjoy. Learn how to facilitate a nature hike that is hands-on, camper-oriented, and enhances a STEM approach to your camp curriculum.

Janice Kerber Devyn Hamann

Janice Kerber - Camp Director - FWC/Everglades Youth Conservation Camp
Janice Kerber has been the camp director at the FWC/Everglades Youth Conservation Camp for 14 years and a classroom teacher for 20 years.  With a degree in Elementary Education/Middle School Science Education,  Janice believes in making all her programs at the camp fun, but educational.  By providing hands-on science education into the summer camp curriculum, campers getting an enhanced learning environment while participating in a summer camp residential setting.

Devyn Hamann - Assistant Director - FWC/Everglades Youth Conservation Camp
Co-Speaker Bio:  Devyn Hamann has been a staff member at the Everglades Youth Conservation Camp for 7 years and a camper since the age of 8.  In May 2019, Devyn graduated with her BA in Biology from Florida Gulf Coast University and assumed the role of assistant director for the camp. Devyn has been a part of the year-round education team and has helped to facilitate the educational programs provided to summer campers as well as the school and family programs offered from September to April.

How to Avoid Hiring Bias

Concurrent Session -9/29/2020

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How to Avoid Hiring Bias

09/29/2020 1:00 PM
Most employers set out to hire the best and brightest candidates to fill positions within their organization. Unfortunately, unconscious bias continues to plague the hiring process, disproportionately affecting women and minorities. Learning tips to recognize and avoid unconscious bias will save your company the hassle of bad hires and potential legal claims and set your organization on a path to a more diverse, inclusive, and productive work environment.

Shawntel Hebert

Shawntel Hebert - Attorney - Taylor English Duma LLP
Shawntel R. Hebert is an experienced attorney partnering with in-house counsel and human resources professionals to prevent, correct, and advise on day-to-day employment matters and also vigorously defend employment litigation. Shawntel routinely advises clients on quirky and nuanced employment law issues and can provide counsel regarding all aspects of the employment relationship, especially addressing difficult employees or challenging workplace situations.

Integrating Technology into Staff Training and Management

Concurrent Session -9/29/2020

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Integrating Technology into Staff Training and Management

09/29/2020 1:00 PM
Create a virtual and interactive staff training that can be duplicated year after year. Rethink your staff training to create an atmosphere where learning and culture building go hand in hand. Make your life easier and allow your staff to learn at their levels and utilize their learning styles.

Jessica Polster

Jessica Polster - Owner and Director - Coach Polster's Camps and Enrichments
Jessica Polster has been working and managing summer camps for more than 12 years. She attended the University of North Florida and holds a master’s in Educational Leadership. She specializes in utilizing quality leadership, and an in-depth understanding of emotional literacy to create a positive staff culture. She serves on several nonprofit boards and manages day camps and after-school enrichment programs.

Southeastern Fall Conference - Day 2

-9/30/2020

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Wednesday

09/30/2020 8:30 AM

 

Time Quest: Virtual Escape Room

Curt and Chris from the Summer Camp Programming podcast have created a virtual escape room specifically to be used in a virtual camp setting. Register to play Time Quest and get a feel for how the guys run their virtual escape room game. If you like it, be sure to attend their session on Thursday, October 1st to learn how you can create and run one for your campers and families. There will be two games running simultaneously. Curt will be facilitating one and Chris will be running the other one. Each game allows up to 8 people to play/register. Every hour starting at 9 am.  Reserve Your Spot

Let’s Take a Walk “Arts” side/ Playful Learning: Anytime, Anywhere

Concurrent Session -9/30/2020

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Let’s Take a Walk “Arts” side/ Playful Learning: Anytime, Anywhere

09/30/2020 9:00 AM
Art, creativity, innovation, and wonder are all key components of 21st Century learning. Thank goodness all of those things can be found with just a quick walk through nature. Have you ever stopped to look at all the learning opportunities that present themselves just by walking through the woods, by a pond, passing a meadow? Join presenter, Jed Dearybury for an interactive session like you’ve never done before. We will literally take a walk in the outdoors and see what learning experiences we can find together. This will be your favorite session for sure!

Jed Dearybury

Jed Dearybury
Jed began his education career in 2001. During his 13-year early childhood classroom tenure, Jed received numerous awards. He was featured in GQ Magazine as Male Leader of the Year, met President Obama as the SC winner of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, and was named as a top 5 finalist for South Carolina Teacher of the Year because of his passion, love, and success in education. Since leaving the classroom in 2015 he has been leading professional development across the country, as well as training the next generation of educators through his work with Higher Ed. As of August 2019, he is the Director of Creativity and Innovation at mrdearybury.com LLC. His mission: Equip, Encourage, Empower the teaching profession using creativity, laughter, and hands-on fun!

Recruiting in our new virtual reality: Part 1-Tips and Theories

Concurrent Session -9/30/2020

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Recruiting in our new virtual reality: Part 1-Tips and Theories

09/30/2020 9:00 AM
It's a new world for all of us when it comes to recruiting for 2021 and beyond! Recruiting for all camps will be different, that much is a given — and yet some things remain just as true as they were before the biggest disruption in the history of our business. As we turn our attention from summer 2020 to the future, spend some time with your colleagues who have been recruiting virtually with success prior to the pandemic. In these online sessions, we will discuss: What parents are looking for, How to set up your virtual recruiting strategies, Figuring out your camp’s identity and then selling that identity online to families, The best way to build trust via a relationship that may not have the benefit of an in-person meeting, and Six magical words to use in virtual parlor meetings Walk away with tools, tips, and templates to customize and use during your virtual recruiting.

Danny Herz Jo-Ellen Unger

Danny Herz - Director - URJ 6 Points Sports Academy
Danny’s magnetic energy and innovative spirit has led him to become a featured public speaker at many camp conferences around the world! Danny has given the keynote address at the JCAMP 180 conference at the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, MA, several American Camp Association Conferences, The Foundation for Jewish Camp Leaders Assembly, The Jewish Agency for Israel Seminar in Israel, and JumpSpark Atlanta events – just to name a few. 
Prior to his full-time role at camp, Danny served on the senior administrative team at Jewish and non-Jewish schools in California and in Florida. His full-time duties in education include having worked as a teacher, coach, dean of students and director of athletics. Danny’s coaching resume puts him at the top of high school basketball coaching ranks, having coached both McDonald’s All-Americans and Jordan All-Americans. Danny is known for being a dynamic leader who develops his staff into leaders - coaching his camp staff with the same passion that he coaches his athletes. Danny earned his bachelors degree from the University of Florida and his masters degree from Ohio University. Danny is a certified camp director by the ACA. Danny is an accomplished and sought-after public speaker, having recently given presentations in 10 states and 3 countries.

Jo-Ellen Unger - MARE - URJ 6 Points Creative Arts Academy
Throughout her education and career, Jo-Ellen, founding director of the URJ 6 Points Creative arts Academy, straddled the worlds of Jewish Education and the Arts. She developed her skills in voice, theatre and dance at the Performing and Visual Arts Center (now New World School of the Arts) in Miami, Florida, the Fine Arts program at Florida State University and the National Shakespeare Conservatory in New York City. She is a graduate of Hebrew Union College - Jewish Institute of Religion, where she earned a Master of Arts in Religious Education. She has served as a presenter, scholar-in-residence and artist-in-residence in numerous communities and was named a 2020 Distinguished Educator by her peers.   Her passion is fusing values based education and art.

 

Using Interactive Strategies to Address Bullying

Concurrent Session -9/30/2020

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Using Interactive Strategies to Address Bullying

09/30/2020 9:00 AM
Social learning theory says that people learn in social contexts and by doing. Based on that understanding, participants will learn how to build community, strengthen connections, promote teamwork, and encourage a climate that prevents and addresses bullying through active learning and effective debriefing techniques. The workshop will focus on a range of activities designed to solidify a strong, positive culture among staff and youth while addressing bullying.

June Jenkins

June Jenkins - Training Coordinator - Safe & Humane Schools/Clemson University
June Jenkins is the training coordinator for Safe & Humane Schools/Clemson, the national training center for the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program. She has 25 years in education as a teacher and administrator.  She holds a Postgraduate License from the SC DOE in PK–12 administration and supervision. She has a postgraduate certification in Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports and is a Certified Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor.

A Summer Like No Other from the Staff Perspective

Concurrent Session -9/30/2020

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A Summer Like No Other from the Staff Perspective

09/30/2020 11:00 AM
Summer 2020 is one for the books in more ways than we can count, but especially for our seasonal staff. Join a panel of directors to unpack the recent camp season and how things played out with various scenarios of camp running in some form or not. We will look into lessons learned, the possible impact on future summers regarding staff retention, and thoughts on what to do moving forward to build next summer’s team. Bring your questions and together we will explore the answers!

Kim Aycock Deb Jordan

Kim Aycock - speaker/trainer/educator/consultant
Kim Aycock, MST, has 35+ years of experience developing young people with skills robots are unable to do. While blending the talents of a master teacher with the knowledge of a seasoned camp expert, Kim ignites the learning for varying levels of campers and staff worldwide through her interactive and innovative presentations. Kim speaks at regional and national conferences, contributes regularly to Camping Magazine and ACA blogs, and serves as co-chair of ACA’s Project Real Job Committee.

Deb Jordan - Professor - East Carolina University
Deb has been a professional educator for more than 35 years. She currently is a professor in the Department of Recreation Sciences where she teaches about evaluation, leadership, diversity, organized camping, and risk management. Deb is heavily involved in ACA serving as the co-chair of Project Real Job and as co-chair of Standards in the SE region. She has written three textbooks, more than 50 articles, and made more than 100 presentations at the local, state, regional, national, and international levels.

 

Authentic Fundraising and Crisis: A Lethal Combination!

Concurrent Session -9/30/2020

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Authentic Fundraising and Crisis: A Lethal Combination!

09/30/2020 11:00 AM
During periods of significant cultural/civil unrest and crisis the last thing people are thinking about is philanthropy . . . wrong! During this session we will learn how to take an authentic approach and capitalize on the donor's desire to engage and make a difference during these topsy-turvy times. We will explore the fundamentals of fundraising art and science and how to prepare for a spectacular philanthropic 2021. Fun, low key, and designed for you to walk away with practical guidance to increase donor dollars. Join the session . . . no gift required!

David Phillips

David Phillips - Principal - Immersive1st
David Phillips is principal of Immersive1st, a firm specializing in fundraising, strategic planning and visioning, governance, program creation and implementation, and acute organizational analysis. A lifelong communal professional with a> trademark British sense of humor, his passion is doing important things with good people that make a difference (and have fun while doing it!). He holds a MSW in Social Work with a focus on community organizing and development from the University of Pittsburgh.

Fruit That Remains - The Transformational Power of Adventure Ministry

Concurrent Session -9/30/2020

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Fruit That Remains - The Transformational Power of Adventure Ministry

09/30/2020 11:00 AM
Challenge course/adventure programming is a powerful tool for growth and life change in almost any setting. However, they are uniquely suited for exploring issues of faith, particularly in a Christian context. This workshop will explore this context, explain why adventure programming is so effective there, and what components can be combined to utilize these tools to produce "fruit that remains." John 15:16

Don Stock

Don Stock - President and Co/Owner - The Adventure Guild and 21st Century Disciple
Don has been involved in adventure ministry for more than 20 years. Don and Kim own and manage The Adventure Guild, a full-service, accredited professional vendor with the Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT). Don is a passionate communicator with a heart for using creation and intentional adventure experiences to help people develop “fruit that remains" and to teach others how to do the same. Don holds a degree in youth ministry and is a frequent presenter at industry conferences. He is the creator and teacher for the online teaching ministry and YouTube channel, 21st Century Disciple.

Recruiting in our new virtual reality: Part 2-Putting it into Practice

Concurrent Session -9/30/2020

You Selected This Session

Recruiting in our new virtual reality: Part 2-Putting it into Practice

09/30/2020 11:00 AM
It's a new world for all of us when it comes to recruiting for 2021 and beyond! Recruiting for all camps will be different, that much is a given — and yet some things remain just as true as they were before the biggest disruption in the history of our business. As we turn our attention from summer 2020 to the future, spend some time with your colleagues who have been recruiting virtually with success prior to the pandemic. In these online sessions we will discuss: What parents are looking for, How to set up your virtual recruiting strategies, Figuring out your camp’s identity and then selling that identity online to families, The best way to build trust via a relationship that may not have the benefit of an in-person meeting, Six magical words to use in virtual parlor meetings Walk away with tools, tips, and templates to customize and use during your virtual recruiting.

Danny Herz Jo-Ellen Unger

Danny Herz - Director - URJ 6 Points Sports Academy
Danny’s magnetic energy and innovative spirit has led him to become a featured public speaker at many camp conferences around the world! Danny has given the keynote address at the JCAMP 180 conference at the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, MA, several American Camp Association Conferences, The Foundation for Jewish Camp Leaders Assembly, The Jewish Agency for Israel Seminar in Israel, and JumpSpark Atlanta events – just to name a few.
Prior to his full-time role at camp, Danny served on the senior administrative team at Jewish and non-Jewish schools in California and in Florida. His full-time duties in education include having worked as a teacher, coach, dean of students and director of athletics. Danny’s coaching resume puts him at the top of high school basketball coaching ranks, having coached both McDonald’s All-Americans and Jordan All-Americans. Danny is known for being a dynamic leader who develops his staff into leaders - coaching his camp staff with the same passion that he coaches his athletes. Danny earned his bachelors degree from the University of Florida and his masters degree from Ohio University.  Danny is a certified camp director by the ACA. Danny is an accomplished and sought-after public speaker, having recently given presentations in 10 states and 3 countries.

Jo-Ellen Unger - MARE - URJ 6 Points Creative Arts Academy
Throughout her education and career, Jo-Ellen, founding director of the URJ 6 Points Creative arts Academy, straddled the worlds of Jewish Education and the Arts. She developed her skills in voice, theatre and dance at the Performing and Visual Arts Center (now New World School of the Arts) in Miami, Florida, the Fine Arts program at Florida State University and the National Shakespeare Conservatory in New York City. She is a graduate of Hebrew Union College - Jewish Institute of Religion, where she earned a Master of Arts in Religious Education. She has served as a presenter, scholar-in-residence and artist-in-residence in numerous communities and was named a 2020 Distinguished Educator by her peers.   Her passion is fusing values based education and art.

Camping in COVID Times: Effective Health and Wellness Measures

Concurrent Session -9/30/2020

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Camping in COVID Times: Effective Health and Wellness Measures

09/30/2020 1:00 PM
The difficult summer of 2020 has required a great deal of work, innovation, intentionality, and grit. For those camps who provided services this summer, we have a great deal to learn from them. This session will outline research information gathered from camps who operated this summer and discuss decision-making criteria and nonpharmacologic interventions (NPIs) that helped camps provide a summer experience to youth across the US.

Dr. Tracey Gaslin

Dr. Tracey Gaslin - Executive Director - Association of Camp Nursing
Tracey Gaslin, PhD, CPNP, FNP-BC, CRNI, RN-BC, is a professor and dual-certified nurse practitioner in pediatrics and adults. She completed her PhD in Educational and Organizational Leadership and taught for 10 years specializing in camp nursing, service leadership, and hematology. She periodically works as a camp consultant and legal consultant and publishes the majority of her work in the areas of bleeding disorders, camp nursing, and leadership. Tracey served as the medical director at a special needs camp for six years.  She currently serves as the executive director for the Association of Camp Nursing where she travels to different areas of the US and Canada educating healthcare providers about camp health.

Project Real Job Staff Engagement Hack-a-Thon

Concurrent Session -9/30/2020

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Project Real Job Staff Engagement Hack-a-Thon

09/30/2020 1:00 PM
This pilot program provided university students who are connected to camps a chance to reimagine how we can better engage them between summers and, in turn, provide valuable insights to camp leaders. Through this program, seasonal staff from various camps spent up to 5 weeks (as part of their university coursework) brainstorming, refining, and finalizing innovative recommendations toward keeping staff connected and committed to camp over the coming months and in between future summers, too. Join us for the presentation of these ideas so that you can be inspired and bring them back to your own staff!

Daniel Shore Kim Aycock

Daniel Shore
Daniel Shore is a researcher and consultant with a PhD in Workplace Psychology. He conducts research across numerous settings, from cybersecurity teams to summer camps, and turns data into action by 1) facilitating training experiences, 2) conducting feedback focus groups, and 3) creating professional development and training curricula. In the camp world, Daniel combines his 10 summers of experience as a staff member, unit supervisor, and director of staff and leadership development with his research expertise to help camps strategically train staff to enhance the camp staff experience.

Kim Aycock - speaker/trainer/educator/consultant
Kim Aycock, MST, has 35+ years of experience developing young people with skills robots are unable to do. While blending the talents of a master teacher with the knowledge of a seasoned camp expert, Kim ignites the learning for varying levels of campers and staff worldwide. She has the ability to connect with and motivate learners of all ages through her interactive and innovative presentations. Kim speaks professionally at regional and national conferences, contributes regularly to Camping Magazine and ACA blogs, and serves as co-chair of ACA’s Project Real Job Committee.

Use the Data You Have To Get The Marketing Answers You Need

Concurrent Session -9/30/2020

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Use the Data You Have To Get The Marketing Answers You Need

09/30/2020 1:00 PM
How can I use the data I have in my camp management software to make the right decisions for recruiting, marketing, and program decisions? With COVID-19, what can I learn from my numbers this year? Is my return rate good? How many new campers should I be getting each year? How much should I spend on print ads, Facebook, listings, and other ads? Learn how to answer these questions with the data you already have (and if you don’t have it, how to get it).

Mike Peckham

Mike Peckham - Summer Camp Director - Camp Rockmont
Mike Peckham has been involved in the camping industry for over a decade in roles as a maintenance man, junior counselor, lifeguard, counselor, assistant director, and now as camp director at Rockmont in Western North Carolina. He holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from Clemson University and has worked as a global onsite consultant for 3-D printing manufacturing operations in the EU, Asia, and the Middle East. Mike has a passion for applying an engineer’s mindset to drive human solutions for camp conundrums.

Southeastern Fall Conference - Day 3

-10/1/2020

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Thursday

10/01/2020 8:30 AM
DIY Virtual Escape Room

Concurrent Session -10/1/2020

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DIY Virtual Escape Room

10/01/2020 9:00 AM
During these crazy times, you need crazy ideas. Curt and Chris of Summer Camp Programming Podcast are just the crazy guys you need! They have created a way to still have camp escape rooms virtually. During this session, they will walk you through the process of making your very own. Bring your notebook and creative side and leave with a slew of great ideas and steps to bring back to your camp and start escaping! Also, be sure to sign up to test drive their virtual room, Time Quest: The Virtual Escape Adventure on Wednesday, September 30 (not a requirement to attend this session)!

Curt Jackson Chris Kallal

Curt Jackson
Curt "Moose" Jackson is the guy behind SCamp Life. He has worked at a number of both overnight camps and day camps in a variety of positions, as well as for a few city parks and recreation departments giving him a wide range of experience. Besides blogging, book writing, and podcasting, he is the co-creator of the popular online Summer Camp Conference (SCampCon). His first love, though, is for summer camp programming, especially theme and specialty programs (did someone mention Harry Potter?). One of the programming strengths he is known for is creating low-cost escape rooms and puzzle-solving activities for camps. You can see everything he has going on at SCamp-Life.com.

Chris Kallal
Chris Kallal is the Executive Director at Camp Good News in Washington, IL. He has been working at Camps since 2000! Chris started attending Camp in 1991 right after 3rd grade and has enjoyed spending every summer at Camp since then! When he finds time, he loves to search Pinterest, Social Media, and other websites for the newest, neatest ideas to implement into his Camp. As well, he has visited multiple camps over the years to “steal” ideas from them! Currently, Chris co-hosts a Podcast, Summer Camp Programming, where he talks all things program and loves teaching at various conferences across the country.

On the Other Side of “Unprecedented”: Thoughts from University Students

Concurrent Session -10/1/2020

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On the Other Side of “Unprecedented”: Thoughts from University Students

10/01/2020 9:00 AM
Join this candid discussion about how the summer went with current university students. We will hear their perspective on camp director communication and implementation of the unprecedented summer and their thoughts moving forward.

Gwynn Powell - Assoc Professor - Clemson University

Gwynn Powell, PhD, serves on the faculty of Clemson University’s Park, Recreation and Tourism Management Department and has years of experience with day and resident camp, domestically and around the world.

Steam Rolling Through Children's Literature

Concurrent Session -10/1/2020

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Steam Rolling Through Children's Literature

10/01/2020 9:00 AM
Using children's literature to integrate the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) learning mindset into your camp is a natural fit. During this session, we will learn some engaging ways to fill your camp experience with hands-on STEAM strategies that will develop creative, critical thinking students. Want students to leave camp "wowed" and excited about reading? Join me for this session!

Jed Dearybury

Jed Dearybury
Jed began his education career in 2001. During his 13-year early childhood classroom tenure, Jed received numerous awards. He was featured in GQ Magazine as Male Leader of the Year, met President Obama as the SC winner of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, and was named as a top 5 finalist for South Carolina Teacher of the Year because of his passion, love, and success in education. Since leaving the classroom in 2015 he has been leading professional development across the country, as well as training the next generation of educators through his work with Higher Ed. As of August 2019, he is the Director of Creativity and Innovation at mrdearybury.com LLC. His mission: Equip, Encourage, Empower the teaching profession using creativity, laughter, and hands-on fun!

Trauma-Informed Camping

Concurrent Session -10/1/2020

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Trauma-Informed Camping

10/01/2020 9:00 AM
A large number of the campers that we encounter have suffered from Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), ranging from parental divorce to being victims of abuse. Trauma-informed practices in psychology and education offer camping programs helpful principles for helping our campers not only survive their experiences but thrive and succeed. We also must balance positive practices, such as mentoring, against the risk of harmful boundary issues, such as grooming for abuse.

Deborah Ausburn Donna Caudell

Deborah Ausburn - Attorney - Taylor English Duma LLP
Debbie Ausburn has worked with camps and youth-serving organizations for more than 30 years. She spent her teen years as a summer camp counselor, and subsequently worked as a social worker, foster parent, criminal prosecutor, and attorney. She makes her living as a lawyer, but what she does is raise other people’s children. As a foster parent, stepparent, and now grandparent raising a teenager, she has learned how to incorporate trauma-informed principles into her work with children.

Donna A. Caudell

Donna A. Caudell, Ed.D., served for 29 years in public schools, including 22 years as a Professional School Counselor. Donna now is as an Associate Professor in the Behavioral Sciences Department at Truett-McConnell University, as well as an adjunct professor at North Georgia Technical College.  She understands trauma-informed psychology and how professionals working with children can incorporate the principles into their mission.

 

Budget Friendly Outdoor Education for Camp – No Woods or Water Required!

Concurrent Session -10/1/2020

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Budget Friendly Outdoor Education for Camp – No Woods or Water Required!

10/01/2020 11:00 AM
This session will provide viewers with low-cost activities to teach outdoor education lessons on fishing, boating, wildlife discovery, and shooting sports without a forest or waterbody nearby. Missing that nature-based standard for accreditation? Presented activities will go beyond arts and crafts. The Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network will share lessons, budgets, and procurement options for camps, school field trips, and weekend events. Come learn about our interactive, educational, and fun activities anyone can use.

Kathy Guindon Patricia Brown

Kathy Guindon - Director, Suncoast Youth Conservation Center - FWC's Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network
Kathy Guindon is a PhD fish geek! From PA through NC and into Florida, she brings a lifetime of fisheries knowledge and research experience. She currently serves as director of the Florida Youth Conservation Center’s Network Suncoast Youth Conservation Center, where they focus on hands-on, marine science conservation education and summer day camps. She loves sharing her passion about fish and fishing with others to spark the curiosity of the next generation of fish enthusiasts.

Sam Teehan - Speaker Title: Education Specialist - FWC's Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network
Samantha Teehan is the lead education specialist and assistant camp director for the Suncoast Youth Conservation Center, a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) site within the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network. Sam has two BS degrees (Marine Bio and STEM Ed) and a master’s degree in STEM Education, but she lives for the summer camp season. In her spare time, she can be found enjoying the outdoors as much as possible including fishing, biking, or hiking on the trails.

Patricia Brown - Education Specialist - Speaker Company: FWC's Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network
Patricia Brown is an education specialist at Joe Budd Youth Conservation Center within the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network. She educates students and campers annually using the four core components of the Network; Fishing, Boating, Shooting Sports, and Wildlife Discovery. Previous experience: 15 years as education/camp director for The Nature Institute; Facilitator for national curricula — Projects WILD, Aquatic, Growing Up, Flying, Project WET, Project Learning Tree, and Leave No Trace.

Crisis Communication for Summer 2021

Concurrent Session -10/1/2020

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Crisis Communication for Summer 2021

10/01/2020 11:00 AM
Every program planning to run in-person for summer 2021 may find their camp playing offense or defense with the media. This session will include an overview of what we learned from summer 2020, how we helped camps that reached out (without naming names), and key takeaways as ACA preps for next summer. Get up-to-date on anticipating crisis, identifying your spokesperson, determining your audiences, and establishing standards for monitoring and receiving notifications surrounding potential crisis. Learn more about responding to media inquiries and how to determine if a situation will require professional help.

Kelley Freridge

Kelley Freridge - Chief Marketing Officer - American Camp Association
Kelley Freridge is the Chief Marketing Officer for the American Camp Association.  With 10 years of senior leadership roles in the outdoor industry at Eastern Mountain Sports, Patagonia, and Chaco, she brings consumer insight and digital savvy to her role with ACA.  As a National Outdoor Leadership School graduate and mother, Kelley recognizes the essential value of outdoor experience in developing tomorrow’s leaders and is passionate about passing down this cornerstone to the next generation.

Translating the Camp World to the Greater World: Creating a Resume That Speaks to Both

Concurrent Session -10/1/2020

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Translating the Camp World to the Greater World: Creating a Resume That Speaks to Both

10/01/2020 11:00 AM
Worked at or working at a camp (or related field)? Looking to translate your camp job skills into seemingly unrelated positions or make a move to a new camp or outdoor opportunity? Not everyone understands the skills and traits that are developed and practiced at camp, yet much of what we do easily meets job requirements for a broad range of positions. Even if folks on the hiring end speak the same or similar language, it can still be a challenge to accurately represent previous camp jobs or positions held. We’ll take a look at resumes and resume language and work to transmit our highly sought-after skill sets to speak to those both in and out of the camp world.-

Deb Jordan

Deb Jordan - Professor - East Carolina University
Deb has been a professional educator for more than 35 years. She currently is a professor in the Department of Recreation Sciences where she teaches about evaluation, leadership, diversity, organized camping, and risk management. Deb is heavily involved in ACA serving as the co-chair of Project Real Job and as co-chair of Standards in the SE region. She has written three textbooks, more than 50 articles, and made more than 100 presentations at the local, state, regional, national, and international levels.