Camp: Keeping camp costs budget-friendly
Camp is a life-changing experience — one that’s possible for every child and every budget. Even though the experience is priceless, paying for it doesn’t have to be!
“I’m a great believer that you don’t have to go to the most expensive camp to have a great camp experience,” said Phil Lilienthal, former camp director of Camp Winnebago in Maine and Global Camps Africa CEO. If you’re dealing with an experienced and caring staff of camp counselors, “you can have a program in a parking lot, and it can be great,” he said.
Parents looking for budget-friendly camps should keep the following in mind:
• The ACA camp community generates a projected $216 million annually for camp scholarships. Don’t be afraid to call the camp director and ask if financial assistance is available.
• Contact your area’s local office of the American Camp Association. Visit www.ACAcamps.org/about/contactus to find your local office contact.
• Check with your church or synagogue.
• Get in touch with social services groups in your community.
• Visit individual camp Web sites. Most clearly outline whether or not they offer financial assistance for their campers.
Assistance is also available from the government. Parents should inquire as to whether the camp participates in income-eligible subsidy programs, for instance through Title XX.
Originally published in the March 2014 Camp e-News. Reprinted with permission of the American Camp Association. ©2014 American Camping Association, Inc.