Camp Information for Leaders and Managers

Welcome leaders and managers!

This is a resource page is for YOU! It was designed for camp leaders as well as managers who have clients attending a camp. Many of you are playing both roles!

It’s important to note that even if you are not leading the camp your client is attending, you still play a role in making sure your client is prepared and our leaders are prepared. This includes making sure they know when and where to meet for transportation to Carrville.

Take some time to explore the information here.

Hospitality Info

Here you will find information on meals, dietary needs, swag, and client readiness. This is a must-read if you are leading a camp or if you are a manager of a client who is attending a camp.

Program Info

Here you will find information on all things related to the program. This is a must-read if you are leading a camp.

Safety Info

Here you will find information on accessibility and general safety. This is a must-read if you are leading a camp or you are the manager of a client who is attending a camp.

Leader Info

Here you will find information on the leader launch meetings happening for every camp. This is a must-read if you are leading a camp.

Staffing Info

Here you will find information on staffing. This is a must-read if you are a manager of a client who is attending a camp.

Carrville Info

Here you will find information on the Carville property. This is a must-read if you are leading a camp.

Advice for First Time Leaders

Have a plan but be willing to go with the flow and adapt on the fly- it is not the specific activity that is the goal but rather connection and community.
Ask a lot of questions- reach out before and during to people who know participants so you have enough information.
Don’t overbook yourself the week before and after the camp. Leading a camp takes a lot of energy as you are always “on” and do a lot of running around.
Take a look at the agenda in advance and ask questions to familiarize yourself.
Remember that sometimes the moments that feel like work, mundane or exhausting are actually the moments our clients will remember and cherish for the rest of their lives. Being present to the gift we are giving with making something like this happen is really special.

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Be creative problem solvers. Don’t panic when something doesn’t go as expected, just think of ways to make adjustments. An example that I will never forget at my first camp some of the rooms were supposed to have two beds and only had one small bed. We went to Target and picked up air mattresses. It was a quick fix that I did not think of. I was looking at other hotel rooms and hotels…
As a leader don’t forget that others will follow your lead, including your attitude, worry, and excitement. Try not to let them see your concerns (if any). Have a can-do attitude and your team will most likely follow.
Ask about necessary supplies as soon as possible. Preferably before you leave for the trip, but certainly as soon as possible upon arrival. If anything is missing, this gives you the best chance possible to get/create/find the missing thing.
Ask for support. Don’t figure it out alone. Make a call if necessary, even to a support person not at the camp if necessary.
Know that most camps experience some kind of challenge, but this is when our community shines. We are in it together and will always figure it out.
Relax and have some fun.

Expect the unexpected. Things will happen outside of your control, but it will all be OK. Trust yourself and trust the staff you have there. Lastly, allow yourself the moments to lean into the fun. You AND the clients will have a better time!
Camps don’t have to be overwhelming. Lean into your supports and ask good questions. The rest is about having fun.
My advice: Come with an open mind and an open heart. Have a plan and know your role, but be open to the plan changing and letting others step in and help. Make the important thing about connection and relationship. Mix it up, get to know everyone, and have fun!