by Linda Grier Pullium
In 1987, over 1,800 camp professionals gathered in Washington, D.C.,
for the Second International Camping Congress under the sponsorship of
the American Camp Association. That conference was historic in many ways,
including the formation of the International Camping Fellowship (ICF).
The blue butterfly logo, circumscribed with a map of the world on its
wings to represent the conference theme of "Our Fragile World" and
adopted as the ICF logo, has become a metaphor for the development of
greater understanding among the global camping community. More than twenty
years later, countless international exchanges can be attributed to that
memorable conference. Subsequent International Congresses were held in
Canada, Russia, Japan, Australia, and Mexico, and the camp community
is now anticipating the Eighth
International Camping Congress, October
4-7, 2008, in Québec City, Canada.
Camp — A Global Perspective
The institution that we know as camp
in North America has other names in some countries — children's
rest, outdoor education, school camp, vacation plans, and holiday schemes,
among others. Regardless, the essentials of a youth development program
in a safe, nurturing environment and under the guidance of trained adults,
remain consistent. The camp traditions of Couleurs de vie some countries
reflect the North American camp models of the mid-1900's or the
longestablished Boy Scout and Girl Scout camps, but most of these programs
are now evolving into identities unique to each country. Japan, where
camp programs have been deeply rooted in the Canadian tradition, is an
example of a country that has instituted Japanese culture as an integral
part of most camp programs. Camps in other countries complement American-style
activities with indigenous crafts, historical dramas, music, and dance.
In some areas of the world, camp is still an emerging industry, and directors
seek help and support from North American camp professionals. With recognition
of the need for stronger risk management and increased educational opportunities
for camp administrators, ACA has received requests for assistance in
developing appropriate local camp standards.
Camps in many countries have shown a strong interest in affiliating
with the camp movement. Fourteen countries now have recognized camp associations
which offer educational opportunities for directors and staff, communicate
the values of camp to the public, oversee governmental legislation, and
advocate for best practices. The International Camping Fellowship has
supported the leadership in many of these countries in the formation
of associations, and in the past four years has helped with the establishment
of the Asia-Oceania Camping Fellowship and the European Camping Association.
At the 2008 International Camping Congress, presidents and executive
staff of existing associations will meet to share ideas and discuss collaborative
efforts.
Shared Challenges in the Global Camp Community
As camp leaders
from around the world communicate and share ideas, similar issues and
challenges have resounded and echo those of North American camps:
• Financial
constraints • Increased governmental regulations • Need for
public awareness of the benefits of camp • Competition with other
activities in recruiting campers • Increased cost of insurance • Finding
and keeping qualified staff
Global Resource Partners
The American Camp
Association possesses the largest collection of camp and youth development
publications in the world, and efforts are being extended to provide
these resources at reasonable cost to professionals in other countries.
International participation at national ACA conferences has increased
significantly during the past decade, and there have been many recent
requests for sharing of ACA's other educational programs.
But sharing
goes both ways — and there is much to be learned from the accomplishments
of camps and organizations around the world. Americans are sometimes
perceived in the global camp community as being patronizing in their
attitudes toward camps outside the U.S. borders. As an organization,
we are recognizing that significant research in youth development and
outdoor programming has been done in Russia, Japan, and Australia, and
the Research Forum has become an important function of the International
Congresses. As we become better acquainted with the worldwide institution
of camp, we will have opportunities to learn from our colleagues as well
as to share our knowledge and resources.
The Eighth International Camping
Congress
The metaphorical blue butterfly, representing significant international
events of the camp community, will land in Québec City, Canada,
October 4-7, 2008 for the Eighth International Camping Congress. Sponsored
by the Association des camps du Québec with the support of the
Ministre de l'Éducation du Loisir et du Sport, seven hundred
delegates from up to twenty countries are expected to participate. The
American Camp Association, the International Camping Fellowship, and
the Canadian Camping Association are partnering with the Congress organization
to support this worldwide event. The theme, "In Living Colors," embodies
both the beauty of the Canadian autumn colors and the diversity of camps,
missions, and programs of participants. All events will be held in the
spectacular Centre des Congrès de Québec, recognized as one
of the best convention centers in the world.
The opening afternoon will
feature a unique event of teamwork, competition, and cooperation — In
Living Colors. This three-hour game will require the intellectual, physical,
and artistic abilities of English and French-speaking participants. During
the body of the Congress, over ninety sessions will be presented with 60
percent in English, 30 percent in French, and 10 percent in other languages.
These sessions are divided into eight streams – International; Business;
Leadership and Training; Site and Facility Management; Programming; Environment;
Clientele; and Security, Health and Safety. Simultaneous translation will
be used for keynote sessions, and generous portions of entertainment, interactive
programs, and opportunities for exchange of ideas will highlight the Congress.
The World Leisure Conference will overlap the final two days of the Congress,
and a keynote and evening event will be shared on Thursday. On Sunday,
October 5, ICC will host an exhibit hall of up to seventy exhibitors. During
the Congress, most of the lunches and dinners are included in the registration
fee and will highlight special entertainment such as the international
dance troupe Danse Mackinaw. An international campfire and a gala closing
banquet will conclude the program.
Prior to the Congress, tours of Canadian
camps and kindred group conferences will be offered, and a five-day International
Basic Camp Director course will be instructed by the U.S. team of Armand
Ball, Dick Chamberlain, and Connie Coutellier. A special Teambuilding
and Leadership course will be led by Jim Cain, author of Raccoon Circles.
Full information about the program, hotels, and registration is found
at www.iccquebec2008. com/en/. Early-bird rates are extended through
April 15.
The opportunity for a unique cultural and educational experience
lies just beyond our northern border and within a day's drive for many
Americans. The hands of friendship are extended to welcome each participant
to exchange ideas, learn about the international community, and celebrate
the 400th anniversary of Québec City. We guarantee that your life will never be the same
after this experience. Welcome to "In Living Colors — Couleurs
de vie "!
Originally published in the 2008 May/June
issue of Camping Magazine. |
