https://www.acacamps.org/research/special-projects/character-camp-initiative

ACA’s Character at Camp Initiative is a six-year effort to expand, strengthen, and celebrate character development at camp. Funded in 2023 by Lilly Endowment, Inc., the initiative includes the...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/belief-builds-character

Discover how belief, curiosity, and positive communication can transform behavior and build character in children through everyday moments at camp.

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/strategic-planning-rooted-character

Every camp reaches a moment when it has to ask itself: Are we still serving our mission in the most impactful way? Are we ready for the future? How do we ensure long-term sustainability...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/more-character-less-risk

Discover how fostering character in staff, campers, and community helps camps reduce risk, build culture, and strengthen safety through shared values.

https://www.acacamps.org/research/special-projects/camp-school-partnerships-project/2025-2026-grant-application

The application window for Summer 2025 is now closed. Grantees will be announced in May. The application window for Summer 2026 will open in Fall 2025. Stay tuned to the...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/safe-try-safe-fail-cultivating-courage-growth-camp

At camp, failure isn't defeat—it’s growth. Discover how supportive staff, intentional culture, and safe spaces help kids build courage, resilience, and character.

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/promoting-character-education-parents

Most parents want their children to develop traits like honesty, responsibility, kindness, empathy, respect, perseverance, self-confidence, curiosity, creativity, and compassion; essentially aiming...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/fostering-positive-character-camp

The “fun” started on the very first day of camp. I was helping some of my 10-year-old boys put their belongings into their respective cubbies when I turned to help a youngster we’ll call “Jake.” As I...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/moving-forward-together-character-camp

At any given point in the summer, I can stop what I am doing and listen. Through the distance and the noise, I can hear the laughter and play of millions of children at camps across the country. As I...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/character-cultivation-character-controversy

Let’s be honest: as camp leaders, you deal with a lot of controversy. And it can be exhausting! Controversy may stem from drama with staff, parents, or your board — and camper drama is ever-...