Emerging Camp Advocates: Virtual Conversation Series

Emerging Camp Advocates

Emerging Camp Advocates (ECA) is a year-long series of virtual calls and opportunities for camp professionals who are interested in learning more about advocacy and getting involved in supporting the camp experience. We’ll talk about what advocacy looks like at the local, state, and national levels, share practical ideas and resources, and hear from people who have experience advocating for camp. 

Participants will be encouraged to look for opportunities to get involved in advocacy in their own communities and learn more about participating in ACA Camp Hill Days in DC in April. The is a chance to build familiarity and confidence around advocacy, connect with other camp professionals, and explore ways we can help share the value of camp with community leaders and policymakers.

Upcoming Virtual Conversations & Events

• Thursday November 5, 2 pm EST: Emerging Camp Advocate Kick – Off
  • What does it mean to be an advocate for camp? We'll kick off the Emerging Camp Advocates cohort by exploring why camp professionals have an important role to play in shaping policies that affect camps, staff, and campers. We'll hear about opportunities to get involved at the state and local level, and talk about how relationship-building with policymakers can start right in your own community.

• Thursday December 17, 2 pm EST: Advocacy in Action (Guest Speaker)
  • What does camp advocacy actually look like? Hear directly from experienced camp and government-relations professionals about how advocacy happens behind the scenes. From identifying an issue and building relationships to working with coalitions, communicating with policymakers, and telling the camp story. This interactive conversation will give ECAs a chance to ask questions and hear real-world examples of advocacy at work.

• Friday, January 29, Noon EST: Legislative 101: From Bill to Action
  • Ever wondered how a bill becomes a law, or how you can influence that process? This hands-on session will demystify the legislative process and introduce practical skills camp directors can use in their own states. We’ll learn how to find and understand legislation, identify the policymakers who matter, contact a legislator’s office, prepare for a meeting, testify or speak at a hearing, and effectively share your camp’s story.

• February 17 – 20, TBA: In Person Meet Up at ACA National Conference 
  • More information to come 

• Thursday, March 4, 4pm EST: Ready for Hill Days? What to Expect & How to Prepare
  • Thinking about participating in ACA Camp Hill Days? This session will give Emerging Camp Advocates a practical look at what Hill Days is, why camp directors participate, and what you can expect from the experience. We’ll walk through the Hill Days schedule and share some tips and tricks on lodging and making the trip affordable. 

• April TBA: Emerging Camp Advocates at Hill Days 
  • Join ECA for roundtables and an in person kick off together before Hill Days starts. After a day of training, we will gather for pizza on the national mall.