Upcoming Events & Trainings
EVENT OVERVIEW
This training session will help folks who are new to an organization that receives funds from the DFI Title XX Camping Services Program.
EVENT DETAILS
The #1 reason for camps not receiving partial or full funding that they were allocated is due to incomplete or incorrect documentation and/or missing deadlines. Help yourself by ensuring the people who work directly with registering camps, paying bills, completing the outcomes reports, etc. are properly trained and ready for the billing and application processes.
The training will cover:
Accessing resources, forms, and information;
Timeline and due dates for the program;
Processing bills for funds;
Brief overview on how allocations and financing work; and
Other pertinent information required to administer the program at your agency.
To register for this event, please contact campadvocates@acail.org to schedule your training session.
EVENT AUDIENCE
It is required that the person with the overall responsibility of the camp attend this training. It is strongly recommended that any new employees who will be assisting in completing the documents, working with the payment process, registering campers, etc., also attend. These folks may include the Registrar, Finance Director, ED/CEO, Camp Director, Program Director, Office Manager, Funds Development Director, etc.
WHY ATTEND?
Develop an understanding and comprehension of the required steps, documents, and policies to receive and/or maintain DFI Title XX Program funding.
LOCATION & TYPE OF EVENT
This event is a live, virtual event and will utilize the Zoom Meeting platform.
Please Note: ACA Illinois will not record this event.
WHAT TO BRING TO WEBINAR & HOW TO PREPARE
This is an interactive training course. Each person should be prepared to have their camera on, access to audio (including the ability to speak and hear,) and interact within the Zoom room via a computer. Bring a notebook/paper and pen for activities.
THE FINE PRINT
Please Note: By registering and attending an ACA Illinois event or meeting, virtually or in person you are agreeing to all the event policies listed here. These policies include photo release, refund, link sharing, Code of Conduct, and other relative policies.
HOW TO REGISTER
WORKSHOP OVERVIEW
The DFI Title XX Camping Services Program is a fee-for-service program, not a grant. This program also comes with several requirements and unique terms/rules set by the government. What are the rules around charging additional fees and deposits? What can you do if the funding doesn’t cover the actual cost of camp? How is this not considered a grant and why does that matter to both the camp and ACA Illinois? These questions and more will be addressed in this session.
WORKSHOP DETAILS
This session will cover:
An overview of how allocations are determined by ACA Illinois and IDHS;
Reading the Allocation Memo, including defining the terms;
How to properly classify this funding in the agency’s bookkeeping systems (because it's not a grant);
Review of how matching funds work, expectations of the agency, and calculating actual new money to the agency;
Suggestions on how to offset the additional cost per client when this is only a subsidy;
Stacking funding programs to get to the total cost of camp and potential conflicts;
Rules on additional fees and deposits for campers/clients;
Implications of overestimating, low billing, and how to plan for future allocations; and
Q & A time.
WORKSHOP AUDIENCE
Recommended folks to attend:
Executive-level employees of agencies such as the CEO, COO, etc.
Finance directors, CFOs, etc
Fund development directors, grant managers, etc.
Registrars and office managers processing documents and bills.
Employees who manage the bookkeeping, record keeping, processing payments, invoices, etc.
This session is for camps & agencies that are currently part of the DFI Title XX Camping Services Program.
LOCATION & TYPE OF WORKSHOP
This session is a live, virtual event and will utilize the Zoom Meeting platform.
WHAT WILL THE DFI TITLE XX FALL MEETING COVER?
This meeting will cover upcoming changes, timelines, due dates, and plans for the DFI Title XX Camping Services Program.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
Each agency must send at least one (1) person from their agency to attend. Agencies are invited to send as many folks to attend as they would like to register. However, for the Fall Meeting, we encourage the following folks to attend from each agency:
The person responsible for completing the application.
The camp registrar or person responsible for processing the camper registration documents.
Agencies are invited to send as many people to attend from their agency as possible.
HOW WILL THIS MEETING TAKE PLACE?
This meeting will be held over Zoom. Participants must have access to their computers to engage in this training.
I'VE ATTENDED TRAINING IN THE PAST, DO I NEED TO ATTEND THIS?
Yes, this is not a training. This is a meeting designed to share important and timely information.
This session is a live, virtual events and will utilize the Zoom Meeting platform.
You must have a Member Profile in our registration system to register for this event. If this is your first event with us, please click here to create a profile. It's free!
WHAT IS THE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BOARD?
The Young Professionals Board (YPB) is a volunteer community group of camp pros 35 and under who work together to develop opportunities for growth and leadership within the camp world.
Members of this group have the chance to develop their executive leadership and governance (board) skills, build a stronger network, and provide critical feedback to the ACA Illinois Board of Directors and staff on the needs of emerging professionals. In addition to leadership development, the YPB also plans events and opportunities for the emerging professional!
WHO CAN JOIN THE ACA ILLINOIS YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BOARD?
Any person who meets the following criteria is invited to attend meetings, join the board, and volunteer with this group:
Membership with ACA or ACA Illinois is not required. You don’t have to be from Illinois to join.
WHAT'S THE TIME COMMITMENT? WHEN AND HOW DOES THE GROUP MEET?
The YPB meets monthly to network, plan events, participate in career development training, and more! The monthly meetings are held on Zoom for one hour. It is not required to attend every meeting - so please come when you can!
WHY JOIN THE ACA ILLINOIS YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BOARD?
It will help your career advancement! Moving up in your career requires skill-building and the YPB is designed to work alongside the ACA Illinois Board of Directors so that members can develop governance and executive-level skills. Additionally, members have access to a stronger network that can enhance their future opportunities for career growth.
Joining will help the camp community! The YPB is seen as the expert on the needs of emerging professionals and the ACA Illinois Board of Directors seeks their engagement and input in the Association’s goals and objectives, to better serve the community. ACA Illinois is a volunteer-driven, grassroots organization that requires the voices of many! This is your chance to give back and lift up your ideas!
These workshops are live, virtual events and will utilize the Zoom Meeting platform.
Please Note: ACA Illinois will not record these events.
This event and workshop series must be paid for at the time of registration. If you would like to pay by invoice and/or check, please contact registration@acail.org before registering.
This is a per-person fee event. This event requires camera, computer, and audio access for the participants as it’s designed to be interactive. Any user that has additional persons in attendance that are not registered will be automatically removed from the event without a refund.
Jump into this fast-paced FAQ to learn about the State of Illinois and the nation’s largest, federally funded campership program and see if your camp may qualify!
More than 250,000 clients of IDHS have had the chance to attend camp because of the DFI Title XX Camping Services Program. Each year ACA Illinois works with camps that serve clients of IDHS to pay a portion of their camp fees. Camps apply to join the program to gain access to these funds.
If your agency currently serves, or would like to serve clients of the Illinois Department of Human Services (who are receiving TANF, Medicaid, or SNAP benefits) and are between 5-17 years of age or are adults with special needs, then we invite you to learn how you may be able to access funding to support your campers.
Qualifications for camps and agencies to join the program;
How the finances and match funds work;
Timeline and due dates for the application and billing seasons;
Outcome Goals; and
And other relevant information that will help the participants understand the program.
Sign up today to see if your agency can access these funds.
Please Note: This Information Session is for camps & agencies that are considering joining the DFI Title XX Camping Services Program for the first time.
Get out of the office and in person with other camp pros from the area. We’ll spend our time together networking, enjoying a delicious lunch, and going on a tour of the host camp, Morton Arboretum.
As we welcome fall, now is the perfect time to connect with others who do similar work to seek support, share resources, and debrief your summer experience.
This event is hosted by the ACA Illinois Young Professionals Board. This event is open to all ages 18+. Preregistration is required. ACA Illinois membership or Illinois residency ACA Illinois is not required.
Lunch and parking are included in the fee.
This session is a live, in-person event.
HOW TO PREPARE
This event includes a walking tour of the property. We encourage you to come dressed for a day at camp, with good walking shoes, layers, and rain/cold gear.
Please Note: By registering and attending an ACA Illinois event or meeting, virtually or in person, you are agreeing to all the event policies listed here. These policies include photo release, refund, link sharing, Code of Conduct, and other related policies.
ABOUT THE WEBINAR
This webinar will share learnings from a research study about how to make camp a place of welcome, safety, inclusion and celebration for queer-identifying youth. We partnered with a small church-affiliated camp, in a rural conservative region, in order to explore the innovative ways they have grown and maintained their culture.
WEBINAR DETAILS
This webinar will reflect on how this camp has implemented a number of practical strategies, developed an inclusive and celebratory culture for all participants, and conceptualise a queer welcoming culture while not being an exclusively queer serving camp.
ABOUT THE FACILITATORS
Here are some reasons we believe attending will benefit your organization and/or your career:
Career Advancement. Being at the forefront of DEI work is critical for current and aspiring leaders of all types of organizations.
Camp Advancement. As organizations continue to navigate creating inclusive spaces for their campers and staff, this webinar will provide an opportunity to learn how other organizations are adapting their policies and programs to be more inclusive.
Connected to Accreditation. Statements or philosophies specific to respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals. (CR-1.)
Meets the DFI Title XX Requirements. This event will help DFI Title XX camps meet the requirements for funding related to non-discrimination.
This webinar draws on research supported by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.
SERIES OVERVIEW
ACA Illinois is proud to continue the partnership with ACA Inc., ACA, New York and New Jersey, and ACA, New England to present the Staffing Summit in a new and exciting format for 2025 and 2026!
SERIES DETAILS
October 28, 2025: Recruit & HireJoin us for a full day of keynote, educational sessions, and collaboration hubs focused on recruitment and hiring of staff!
April 28, 2026: Train & RetainJoin us for a full day of keynotes, educational sessions, and collaboration hubs focused on staff training and retention!
January 28, 2026: Micro Staffing Event (Bonus!)Available as a bonus event for those registered for the package, this event will be two hours and include a speaker and large collaboration hub.
Come up your staffing game for summer 2026 and let the Staffing Summit support you in your staffing efforts along the way. Educational sessions during events will be recorded and available to registrants for 30 days post the live event.
Register for one, two, or the whole series here!
SERIES SCHEDULE
*Please note all times are EST
Tuesday, October 28
11:00am-11:30am — Collaboration Hub 1
11:50am-1:00pm — Welcome & Keynote
1:10pm-2:00pm — Educational Session One
2:20pm-3:10pm — Education Session Two
3:30pm-4:20pm — Educational Session Three
4:30pm-5:00pm — Collaboration Hub 2
4:30pm-5:00pm — E-Commerce Session
Tuesday, April 28
11:00am-11:30am — Collaboration Hub
Tuesday, January 28 (Micro Event)
1:00pm-2:00pm — Welcome & Speaker
2:00pm-2:45pm — Collaboration Hub
2:45pm-3:00pm — Closing
EVENT PRICING
Single Member: $60/$75
Single Nonmember: $75/$90
Package Member: $100/$115
Package Nonmember: $115/$130
*Package registration includes both full days and a bonus micro event
Join us for an engaging and insightful workshop designed for camp leaders passionate about shaping the future of overnight camps! Explore the profound impact of generational leadership styles on camper experiences, staff dynamics, and overall camp culture.
Join us for a transformative experience that will empower you to lead with purpose, adapt to changing dynamics, and inspire the next generation of camp leaders. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the camp world, this workshop is your opportunity to connect, share, and grow!
We will cover:
Understanding Generational Influence: Dive into the unique leadership traits of Traditionalists, Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z. Discover how each generation's values and experiences shape their approach to leadership at camp.
Camp-Specific Challenges: Learn how different generations respond to overnight camp demands, such as emotional regulation and quick decision-making, ensuring a supportive environment for both campers and staff.
Bridging Generations: Uncover effective strategies for cross-generational collaboration that leverage strengths, create mentorship opportunities, and foster a cohesive camp community.
Future Trends in Leadership: Gain insights into the evolving landscape of camp leadership, including transformational leadership, diversity, equity, and belonging, and the importance of mental health and resilience in sustaining camp leaders.
Practical Applications: Leave with actionable tips and tools to enhance your leadership style, build effective communication, and create an inclusive camp environment.
WORKSHOP HOST
This event is hosted by the ACA Illinois Young Professionals Board. The intended audience for this event are camp pros who have little to no experience in agency financials aside from a basic budget for seasonal programs or for folks seeking to develop executive-level skills for career advancement.
Are you 35 or younger and want to gain even more executive-level skills? Click here to learn more about the ACA Illinois Young Professionals Board!
ABOUT THE SPEAKER: JILL DOERNER
Jill Doerner serves as Chief Employee Empowerment Officer for the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, one of the city’s largest nonprofit organizations, where she oversees Health and Well-Being Operations and Human Resources. With over 25 years of leadership experience, Jill is known for driving organizational growth through human-centered design, strategic planning, and performance improvement. She brings deep expertise in operations, employee engagement, and creating learning-centered cultures that deliver measurable results. Jill is a collaborative leader who inspires teams to innovate, adapt, and exceed goals in dynamic environments. Her background spans corporate leadership, capital projects, board development, and budget management. Passionate about the social sector, Jill thrives in settings that demand bold thinking and transformation. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Education with a focus on Adult Learning and is driven by an insatiable curiosity and commitment to unlocking human potential through lifelong learning.
This workshop is a live, virtual event and will utilize the Zoom Meeting platform.
Women in Camp was created to support and lift up women and nonbinary folks from across the world that work in the summer camp industry. We aim to create change in the workplace for all people while creating a community space that is welcoming, safe, and brave. Network with other women and nonbinary camp pros and have your voice heard about issues facing our community in the professional summer camp space. Register to receive exclusive Women in Camp swag!
This session is a live, in-person event for registered attendees of the Quebec Camping Association Annual Congress.
Register for the Congrès annuel 2025 here!
Do you know the number 1-rated volunteer and professional development experience in ACA? Being an Accreditation Visitor! Join us and learn more about this popular volunteer role in ACA Illinois that can increase your professional skills, give you access to new ideas, and provide a critical service to the camp community.
In this short session, we’ll cover:
Why Visitors are essential to the Accreditation program,
The benefits of serving as a Visitor to both your camp and your career advancement,
Qualifications to become a Visitor (we know you probably have them!),
Process and timelines, and
Some time for Q&A!
We look forward to sharing this excellent opportunity that can help your camp continue to excel and your career continue to advance! Jump in and attend a session, and you can walk away with a gift card just for learning about the Visitor Crew!*
Please Note:
1). There is no obligation to become a visitor when you attend to learn more.
2). This session is intended for potential volunteers and future Visitors with ACA Illinois. If you are from outside of ACA Illinois but interested in learning more about how to become a visitor where you live/work/summer locally, please email Colette at colette@acail.org.
*Gift cards are limited to the first 25 registered for each session. Participants must preregister and attend this session in full to access this benefit.
COURSE OVERVIEW
Join the ACA Illinois Visitor Crew and experience the #1 volunteer role in the field of summer camp! As an Accreditation Volunteer with ACA, you’ll have the opportunity to serve as a peer reviewer in the Annual Accreditation Report, Written Documentation, and onsite Visit process. Along with another Visitor, you’ll see behind the scenes of other camps, grow your professional network, gain new ideas, and provide unparalleled service & support to the community. It's a win-win-win-win!
Additionally, folks who serve as Accreditation Volunteers for ACA Illinois (known as the ACA Illinois Visitor Crew) will have access to exclusive programs, discounted professional development, and so much more! (limited edition exclusive swag!)
SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT THIS COURSE
This course date is hosted by the national office and will include folks from all over the country. You should apply/register directly here.
Not quite sure if you are ready and want to know more? Check out one of our Becoming A Visitor sessions!
ABOUT THE COURSE
About 4-6 weeks before the course date, you will receive a copy of the Accreditation Process Guide and access to the pre-work through our online learning systems. Trainees will need to complete the online pre-work no later than 1 week before the date of the training. You must attend all portions of the course in order to pass.
HOW TO APPLY/REGISTER
Complete this application. Within 7 days of your application, you will receive confirmation of enrollment into the date of your choice.
This is a free course.
REQUIREMENTS TO ME TO BE TRAINED
Must be a current member of the American Camp Association with a member number.
Must be 21 years of age or older.
QUESTIONS
ACA Illinois Volunteers, Members, & Visitors can contact Kyla at kyla@acail.org.
All other Accreditation Volunteers & Visitors should contact accreditation@acail.org.
ABOUT OUR BOOK CLUB
Jump into our Zoom room as we dig into our next DEI Book Club pick! Everyone is welcome to join us.
ABOUT THE PODCAST
In Nice White Parents, journalist Chana Joffe-Walt uncovers the complexities of the American education system through the lens of white parental influence. This eye-opening podcast explores how well-intentioned white parents have shaped the educational experience for Black and brown students, often without realizing the impact of their involvement.
Through investigative storytelling and in-depth reporting, Nice White Parents delves into the dynamics of race, privilege, and power in schools. It reveals how white families, through their advocacy and involvement, can unintentionally reinforce the inequities they aim to fix. The podcast offers a compelling examination of how education systems are influenced by race, class, and the well-meaning yet misguided actions of well-placed white parents.
Chana Joffe-Walt is a seasoned journalist and the host of Nice White Parents. She has reported for This American Life and other prominent outlets, using her storytelling skills to highlight societal issues and spark important conversations.
The ACA Illinois DEI Committee is a group of thought leaders seeking to make both ACA Illinois and the camp community more diverse and inclusive. The DEI Committee hosts programs to further the essential work needed to create more inclusive communities. The DEI Committee also advises the ACA Illinois Board of Directors and Staff on DEI policies and procedures to ensure that ACA Illinois is a welcoming organization for all.
The Book Club is facilitated by the members of the DEI Committee and hosted by Co-Chairs:
Shauna Guglielmo, Lincoln Park Zoo Camp
Annie Labus, Chicago Botanic Gardens’ Camp CBG
Career Advancement. Being at the forefront of DEI work is critical for current and aspiring leaders of all types of organizations. The intentional networking that happens during a professional Book Club, offers opportunities for growth, development, and connection around the topic area that becomes translatable to resumes and career advancement.
Camp Advancement. Book Clubs offer organizations an opportunity to develop new skills and understanding of the topic presented and consult with other professionals on how they navigate that topic in their own organization. As organizations continue to navigate creating gender inclusive spaces for their campers and staff, this book club will provide an opportunity to learn how other organizations are adapting their policies and programs to be more inclusive. Sure, you could read the book by yourself, but reading and discussing with others helps to reinforce the subject matter and create actionable plans, solutions, & policies that will benefit your camp!
Nice White Parents is available anywhere you prefer to listen to your podcasts for free.
This is an interactive training course. Each person should be prepared to have their camera on, access to audio (including the ability to speak and hear), and interact within the Zoom room via a computer. Bring a notebook/paper and pen for activities.
Whether you are new to ACA accreditation or a seasoned professional needing to ensure 'you've got it', this work day is designed to address your needs.
We want you to be successful and the Fall Accreditation Work Day will give you:
Get one-on-one and small group feedback/support for accreditation.
Receive timely information to set you up for success.
Meet other camp professionals who will expand your network,
Ask questions about how specific standards relate to your camp and situation, and,
Collaborate with ACA Illinois Visitor Crew members, including asking them questions and learning more about the visit and documentation process.
This event is only open to ACA Illinois Accredited Camps. Camps are invited to send multiple people from their camp to participate. This event is FREE.
To register, please email Kelly at registration@acail.org
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
All camps (returning and new) who will be visited onsite in summer 2026.
Directors who are new to working with an Accredited Camp, regardless of next visit year.
Camps interested in Accreditation in the future are also welcome!
9:00am - 10:00am
Updates to the Standards
Timeline for Success, Visit Day Success
10:15am - 11:30am
One on One/Small Group Support:
Discuss & Look at Documentation
Discuss Camp Specific Topics
Direct Access to Answers and Support
11:30am - 12:30pm
Lunch (Included)
12:30pm - 2:00pm
Continue One on One/Small Group Support:
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Review of Most Missed Standards and Other Challenges that Surface
Other Critical Information for Accredited Camps
WHAT TO BRING & HOW TO PREPARE
Accreditation Process Guide v2019
Past Written Documentation or Computer with Access to Files (Downloaded)
Examples of Documentation to bring:
Any documents used in previous visits.
Parent/Caregiver Handbook/Information
Staff Handbook/Information
Health & Wellness related documents and policies
Facility, Food Service, & Transportation related documents.
Something to Take Detailed Notes With/On
Camp shirts/apparel strongly encouraged! Come casual!
WHAT IF I DON'T HAVE ALL MY WRITTEN DOCUMENTATION IS NOT COMPLETE?
We do not expect you to have final or even started Written Documentation. We encourage you to bring whatever you have from past visits so that the Visitors can help you identify needed updates, reviews, and changes.
If you have never been accredited before, we recommend you bring all your policy manuals, documents, and handbooks for health, staff, parents, activity areas, food service, facility, transportation, and any other documents you use that relates to safety and health in camp.
Just bring what you can but do not fret if you are missing anything!
This live event will take place in-person.
By registering and attending an ACA Illinois event or meeting, virtually or in-person you are agreeing to all the event policies listed here. These policies include the photo release, refund, link sharing, Code of Conduct, and other relative policies.
This event is only open to ACA Illinois Accredited Camps. Camps are invited to send multiple people from their camp to participate. This event is free. To register, please email Kelly at registration@acail.org
This is a special opportunity: We usually learn from Michael in standing-room-only giant rooms with hundreds of people. This exciting workshop is a small group, in-depth learning experience with hands-on practice in a unique, fun, energetic, creative experience packed with immediately useable skills. And the detailed design of every minute of the workshop, including meals, models everything you’ll learn, so you’ll feel and see how these powerful techniques work!
You can learn more about the workshop, including the hotel information, add-ons, and more here.
This interactive Skill-A-Thon experience is packed with specific, practical, and original
skills you can’t get anywhere else that you will learn, practice, and take home:
Includes Free Exclusive Follow-Up Webinar for Participants Only! (Date to be determined at the Workshop)
WHO LEADS THIS?
Legendary, award-winning camp expert Michael Brandwein (michaelbrandwein.com) is
an internationally acclaimed staff trainer who has presented in all 50 states, on 6
continents, and served on the national board of the American Camp Association.
Michael is the number one bestselling author of staff-training and leadership books (7!)
in the camp field, including his two latest: Growing Great Qualities in Kids: The
L.A.S.E.R.B.E.A.M. Technique for Bringing Out the Best in Young People and The
Intentional Camp: Putting More Muscle in the Mission of Character & Youth
Development.
The camp leadership team of Resident and Day Camps (Nonprofit & Independent) of all
sizes, including directors, assistant directors, owners, site directors, supervisors,
program directors, unit and area leaders, senior staff, and others—and all levels of
experience.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
2 Nights of Hotel (Monday & Tuesday)
3 Meals
Monday Dinner
Tuesday Lunch
Wednesday Lunch
Training Materials & Supplies
Hotel AccommodationsHotel accommodations for Monday, January 12 and Tuesday, January 13, 2025 are included in your registration as your hotel stay, with both double and single room options available. If you already know who you’d like to room with, let us know at registration! If you don’t require a hotel room, please contact us at registration@acail.org for information on alternative pricing.
If you would like to arrive early or stay later, you can add nights at a discounted rate while registering or by emailing registration@acail.org!
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF THIS IS WORTH YOUR TIME AND MONEY
Listen to your peers: 100% of past participants say they would recommend it to others! The last workshop was attended by about 35 participants from 16 different states and three Canadian provinces. Participants from past workshops say:
FREE EXCLUSIVE ONLINE FOLLOW-UP—THE GUIDED WORKSPACE!
Our own learning community! A few weeks after the Skill-A-Thon, we’ll have a
three hour virtual opportunity for you to drop in and out at your convenience so
that you can continue to work on your specific camp’s training—with Michael as
your personal guide! Get bonus tips. Collaborate and get feedback with others.
And what a great way to set deadlines for ourselves: “I’m going to work on a draft
of XYZ in time to share it with others at the Guided Workspace!”
FREE GIFT: Michael’s latest, 2025 ground-breaking bestseller, The Intentional
Camp: Putting More Muscle in the Mission of Character & Youth Development
REGISTER NOW TO SAVE: $50 Discount for Early Registration before October 15!
SAVE EVEN MORE: 50% discount on Michael’s other six bestsellers for all Skill-
A-Thon participants, if ordered at time of registration!
STAY OVER DISCOUNT
Come for both Women in Camp Summit and The Brandwein Skill-A-Thon on Training & Leading Your Best Camp Team Ever and you receive $75 off both registrations if registered by November 15, 2025! ($150 savings!)
To receive this discount, participants must register and attend both programs. Following the events a refund will be provided to the participant.
This event is a live, in-person event. ACA Illinois will not record this event.
You must pay for this event at time of registration. If you would like to pay by invoice/check, please contact registration@acail.org prior to registering.
By registering and attending an ACA Illinois event or meeting, virtually or in person, you are agreeing to all the event policies listed here. These policies include the photo release, refund, link sharing, Code of Conduct, and other related policies.
You must have a Member Profile to register for this event. If this is your first event with us, please click here to create a profile. It's free!
SUMMIT OVERVIEW
Join us at the Women in Camp Summit, where a vibrant community of camp professionals will come together to learn, connect, and grow. This event is crafted to empower you as a woman in the camp industry, providing the space for meaningful conversations, professional development, and new relationships. Whether you're looking to expand your skills, share your experiences, or enjoy the company of others who share your passion, WICS is the place to be.
We’ve structured the event to ensure that pricing remains accessible. The hotel stay is included in your registration, and we’ve given you the freedom to choose meals that align with your budget. Whether you prefer an intimate dinner or something a little more extravagant, you’ll find options that fit your needs.
We invite you to explore the event details below and visit our website for full information.
You can learn more about the summit, including the schedule, hotel information, and more at www.womenincampsummit.com.
Hotel AccommodationsHotel accommodations for Wednesday, January 14 and Thursday, January 15, 2025 are included in your registration as your hotel stay, with both double and single room options available. If you already know who you’d like to room with, let us know at registration! If you don’t require a hotel room, please contact us at registration@acail.org for information on alternative pricing.
Meals
To keep you well-fed and connected throughout the event, we’ve included lunch on Thursday and Friday in your registration. We’ve also curated a variety of dining options at different price points, both within the hotel and nearby, so you can choose what feels right for you.
On Wednesday evening, we’ll offer you the chance to connect with other attendees through a dinner outing. If you choose, you’ll be matched with a small group of participants within the same price range, providing an opportunity for genuine conversation and community building in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
On Thursday, you can purchase a ticket to our special, off-site event at King Pin Bowling. You can find more details on that here!
The Summit centers the voices and experiences of cis and trans women, as well as non-binary people.
Limited financial assistance is available. Contact us at registration@acail.org to learn more.
Summer camp is an amazing opportunity for every family! Summer camp provides children AND adults with a community environment focused on social and emotional development, skill-building, making friends, and so much more.
There are a ton of options, and that’s where we come in! Join us for a digital FAQ for families on how to find, select, and prepare for the right camp for your child. We’ll also cover finding the perfect camp for adults with special needs!
Day vs. Overnight Camp;
Types of camps, such as specific activities or general focus;
Accommodating special, specific, and/or medical needs at camp;
Appropriate ages for going away to camp;
Searching for the best camp for your loved one;
Spotting camps that take health and safety seriously;
What to ask the Camp Director; and
Q&A time for participants!
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Colette Marquardt is the CEO of the American Camp Association, Illinois. Based in Chicago, Colette is responsible for leading the Illinois camp field and works with over 300 day and overnight camps throughout the Midwest, all of which serve Illinois families. Before joining the association staff, Colette was a camp director and work at camp for over 15 years at several camps around the Midwest. Over her career, she has worked with thousands of camps, families, and professionals by providing training, support, resources, and funding. Colette guides the local camp community in risk management, working closely with the State of Illinois in both health & safety and funding for summer camps that benefit the state of Illinois. Illinois has an incredibly diverse camp community, and Colette believes that there is a camp for every person who wants to attend, and she’s ready to help identify it!
WHO & HOW TO ATTEND
This event is open to the public. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to attend. This is a FREE event. An option to make a donation is available at registration and is greatly appreciated. Donations help us continue to provide services to the local community and summer camps.
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN MOVED TO JANUARY
Not all camps are prepared to provide safe and affirming experiences for trans* youth—and it’s essential to know that before you entrust them with your child. This session equips caregivers with the knowledge and confidence to evaluate camps’ policies, practices, and readiness through a safety-centered lens. We’ll cover what questions to ask, what red flags to watch for, and how to advocate with clarity and compassion.
This webinar includes:
A clear outline of the minimum safety standards every camp should meet for trans* inclusion;
Scripts and strategies for asking camp staff the right questions—before registration;
Guidance for engaging your child in conversations about what safety and belonging look like for them;
Tools to support your own discernment process as a caregiver navigating complex systems.
This session is grounded in the truth that safety is non-negotiable. You’ll leave empowered to choose a camp that honors your child’s identity—and your trust—with care and intention.
TQAMP is an industry-leading organization supporting camps to become spaces of belonging for 2SLGBTQIA+ campers and staff. In doing work with camps across the country we have noticed that there is a need to prepare trans* campers to self-advocate, prepare emotionally, and be empowered to ask for safe accommodation. Additionally, we have noticed that a lot of campers and parents have questions regarding how to address their unique medical needs with the camp’s healthcare team.
This is a free event, open to the community. We offer a pay-as-you-can option that will help us underwrite the cost of this event. Feeling generous, and want to support more programs like this? Donations of any size are accepted at acail.org/donate
FACILITATOR BIOGRAPHY
Chris Rehs-Dupin (he/him) is the Founder of Transplaining for Camps, and Co-Founder and Co-ED of TQAMP. In the past 4 years Chris has become one of the most established subject matter experts in the area of 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion at camp. He brings 21 years of camp experience, and has trained thousands of leaders to support campers of all genders and sexualities- with compassion and joy. Chris loves gardening, women’s basketball, and dance parties with his wife, Amy and their 2 children, Hayden and Milo.
Are you looking to find connection and expand your skills? If so, volunteering for ACA Illinois provides endless benefits! Volunteering for a professional association enhances your resume and allows you access to a network of experts and contacts. Through committee, board, and other volunteer roles, you can expand on your skills while positively contributing to the needs of our camp community.
During this quick-moving session, participants will learn about our committees and boards, including open roles and projects currently needing more support. We’ll also cover serving as an Accreditation Volunteer or event volunteer. Most volunteer roles can be done remotely. Membership and/or Illinois residency is not required to volunteer for ACA Illinois. Join our international volunteer community today!
As a thank you for your time learning about our volunteer opportunities, the first 25 people who register and attend the session will receive a $10 gift card to Target, Starbucks, or Dunkin!*
*Current members of the Board of Directors and Committees do not qualify.
TRAINING OVERVIEW
CampWell is a research-backed training framework, created by camp people, for camp people, for individuals serving youth, that encourages camps to create conditions where campers and staff thrive. Developed in collaboration with the American Camp Association with support from the H.E. Butt Foundation, CampWell is your pathway to an evolving camp culture focused on whole-human and whole-community flourishing.
CampWell supports camps in building safe programs that facilitate a supported culture of individual well-being and belonging, leading to a thriving camp ecosystem where all individuals are connected and positively contributing. Participants will leave CampWell Level Two training with an adaptable curriculum, essential educational resources, and ready-to-use activities created to assist you in elevating care at camp.
We invite organizations to consider sending at least two individuals to a CampWell Level Two training to maximize potential for impact through collaborative implementation. Your investment in sending two staff members to a CampWell Level Two training demonstrates your organization's commitment to CampWell and improves the likelihood of sustained integration of well-being based practices, even if your program experiences unexpected staff attrition.
WHY CAMPWELL INVITES TWO
The Value of Sending Two Staff Members :
Shared Implementation: Create an immediate CampWell implementation team with built-in collaboration and mutual accountability to ensure the elements of well-being and the CampWell Outcomes (safe, supported, connected, contribute) are fully integrated across all programs
Knowledge Retention: Reinforce CampWell concepts together in a newly formed team, improving educational retention of well-being science and ensuring critical implementation details are retained.
Creating Culture Change: Our research has shown having multiple voices to promote CampWell internally within the organization creates broader organizational acceptance.
Reduced Single Point of Failure: Organizations that invest in only one trained staff member risk losing their CampWell capacity if that person leaves or is unavailable.
Collaborative Problem-Solving: This team of two facilitates the program's ability to adapt CampWell strategies into your existing staff training framework.
Train the Trainer: CampWell’s train-the-trainer model is implemented successfully when the training experience is shared in tandem with a peer, allowing creative collaboration specific to your camp's culture.
We encourage organizational leaders to make the investment of sending two staff members for CampWell Level Two training as it demonstrates the organization's commitment to well-being and maximizes the opportunity to see the full impact of your training investment.
Camp directors, program leaders, health and risk leaders, HR and training staff, year-round and seasonal leaders, and anyone interested in improving the camp experience for all campers and staff.
The full CampWell training will include:
MEETING DETAILS
Each agency must send at least one (1) person from their agency to attend. Agencies are invited to send as many folks to attend as they would like to register. However, for the Spring Meeting, we encourage the following folks to attend from each agency:
The person responsible for completing the billing paperwork.
The person responsible for overseeing the outcome development of campers.
I'VE ATTENDED TRAINING IN THE PAST, DO I NEED TO ATTEND?
Calling all ACA Illinois Accreditation Visitors: We look forward to seeing the Zoom Room for our annual spring meetings! This meeting is designed to help our volunteers feel prepared and ready for the upcoming visit season.
Topics up for discussion & updates include:
Timeline - the blueprint for setting up Visits
Scoreforms - Tricks, tips, & changes to the Process
ICA, WDR, & the 72-Hour Rule - We’ll review all the things that are difficult to keep track of
Insight - Learn about the most missed standards and how to coach your camp through challenging scoring situations
Visitor Roles - The “who does what” for Lead Visitors, 2nd Visitors, and Associate Visitors
We will have fun and excitement with some prizes for those that attend!
Trained and in-training Visitors who plan to conduct visits for ACA Illinois camps!
To register for this event, please contact Kelly at registration@acail.org.
Sending your trans* child to camp can stir up excitement and anxiety. In this affirming, actionable session, we’ll explore how to emotionally and practically prepare your child for a summer experience rooted in joy, safety, and belonging. Learn about the minimum safety standards all camps should meet to be considered affirming spaces for trans* youth, and how to assess whether a camp is ready to support your child’s full self.
Scripts and tips for talking to your child about camp expectations, boundaries, and safety planning;
Strategies for approaching conversations with camp staff in ways that invite accountability and clarity;
Tools for tending to your own nervous system and boundaries as a caregiver;
A trauma-informed, anti-oppressive framework for centering your child’s agency, joy, and identity in camp preparation.
Grounded in TQAMP’s core values of empathy, joy, presence & curiosity, and action, this session affirms that caregivers deserve support, too.
TQAMP is an industry-leading organization supporting camps to become spaces of belonging for 2SLGBTQIA+ campers and staff. In doing work with camps across the country we have noticed that there is a need to prepare trans* campers to self-advocate, prepare emotionally, and be empowered to ask for safe accommodation. Additionally- we have noticed that a lot of campers and parents have questions regarding how to address their unique medical needs with the camp’s healthcare team.
Camp is ESSENTIAL to Illinois and every state in the country! Help spread the word about how camp impacts the community through providing positive youth development, creating jobs, boosting the economy, offering child care options for working families, building future citizens who will become leaders, and so much more!
Illinois Summer Camp Day is a critical opportunity for the community, camps, the public, and our elected officials to highlight the important work we do. Inviting our elected representatives to learn about our camps and what challenges we face ensures these representatives can make informed decisions at the local, state, and federal levels.
Join us for a rundown on what Illinois Summer Camp Day is all about and how you can participate!
We’ll discuss how to:
Find the right day and way to celebrate.
Invite local elected officials to see your program in action.
Demonstrate your impact on the larger community with tips and activities.
Use our toolkit, including pre-built social media and invitation template.
And any questions you may have about this fantastic celebration of camp!
While this is called Illinois Summer Camp Day, any camp can join us, regardless of the state you operate in! Our materials and content can easily be adapted to any state!
You are in the final stretch before your upcoming visit! This Spring Accreditation Work Day will include:
One-on-one time with a visitor to go over documentation or deep dive into the standards that you choose to explore in more detail.
A rundown on what to expect during the visit on the day of, and how the scoring process works.
Updates on the Accreditation program, including navigating the most common visit challenges.
Networking with other camp professionals who will expand your community,
This event is only open to ACA Illinois-Accredited Camps. We invite you to send multiple people from your camp to participate. This event is FREE.
To register, please email Kelly at registration@acail.org.
9:00am - 10:00am:
Updates on the standards and visit plans.
Pre-summer steps for a successful Accreditation process.
How the scoring system works during a Visit.
The Written Documentation Review, Accreditation Portal, and other resources.
10:15am - 11:30am:
One-on-One/Small Group Support:
Discuss Camp-Specific Topics
11:30am - 12:30pm:
12:30pm - 2:00pm:
Continue One-on-One/Small Group Support:
2:00pm - 3:00pm:
Setting up your visit with your assigned Visitors.
Visit the timeline from setting the date to when you will receive your results.
We do not expect you to have final Written Documentation. Bring whatever you have completed or are in progress!
Just bring what you can, but do not fret if you are missing anything!
Get out of the office and in person with other camp pros from the area. We’ll spend our time together networking, enjoying a delicious lunch, and going on a tour of the host camp, Camp Shaw-waw-nas-see.
As we inch closer to summer, now is the perfect time to connect with others who do similar work to seek support, share resources, and build stronger connections.
Its almost summer and camp is around the corner! Join Colette Marquardt, CEO of the American Camp Association, Illinois to gain tips and suggestions to prepare your child or loved one for an overnight camp experience. She’ll cover topics such as:
What to expect as first time camp parents and caregivers;
Packing lists;
Forms and communicating medical/specific needs with the camp;
Addressing any questions about safety with the camp;
Homesickness;
Supporting your camper from home; and
Q&A time from participants!
Its almost summer and camp is around the corner! Join Colette Marquardt, CEO of the American Camp Association, Illinois, to gain tips and suggestions to prepare your child or loved one for a day camp experience. She’ll cover topics such as:
What to expect as first-time camp parents and caregivers;
Daily packing lists;
Addressing any questions about safety at the camp;
Homesickness (yes, even at Day Camp);
Supporting your camper at the end of each day to prepare for the next; and,
SEMINAR OVERVIEW
Get your directors, site directors, team leaders, supervisors, and other members of your Leadership Team—new or experienced—trained in one dynamic online seminar! (And it’s also invaluable for those who train the Team.)
Superb training of your Leadership Team is one of the best investments you ever make in camp success. This is the acclaimed, skill-packed, one-of-a-kind training that receives rave reviews and is presented by the award-winning, internationally famous author of the number one national best-selling book that’s considered the “must have” source on the subject, Super Staff SuperVision.
SEMINAR DETAILS
Leadership Team members learn what to say and do every day to be one of the very best leaders at camp, including:
Fast paced, interactive, and highly effective: A total of 5.75 hours taught in Michael’s trademark “use-it-immediately,” fun, and highly energetic teaching style.
SEMINAR REVIEWS
Michael Brandwein is one of the most famous names in camp. He is an internationally acclaimed and award-winning staff and Leadership Team trainer who has presented in all 50 states, on 6 continents, and served on the national board of the American Camp Association. He is the number one bestselling author of staff training and leadership books in the camp field, including Training Terrific Staff (Vols. 1 & 2), Skill of the Day: What Great Leaders of Young People Do & Say, Learning Leadership (CIT/LIT), Super Staff SuperVision, and Growing Great Qualities in Kids: The L.A.S.E.R.B.E.A.M. Technique for Bringing Out the Best in Young People. (www.michaelbrandwein.com/store) He does both in-person and online training for camps.
This program is ideal for anyone who leads staff themselves, or who trains members of the Leadership Team on how to supervise others. It will be great for both new and experienced people.
WHY ATTEND
How will your camp benefit from you attending this program?
This course was developed to meet the needs of camp directors and owners who were looking for a place to send Leadership Team members so that they will get and practice the skills necessary for supervision success. A lot of new Leadership Team members get promoted from front-line positions but may not have much if any experience in leading peers and others. Experienced Leadership Team members need fresh, advanced skills to keep them motivated and challenged in positive ways. To train all of these people, you require an excellent curriculum of the skills they’ll need and effective ways to teach them in an effective, motivating, and highly engaging way. This course provides that.
How does your career benefit from you attending this program?
If you’re a director, it gives you a way to support the most important people at camp. The Leadership Team is the engine that drives camp to success. If you’re a member of the Leadership Team, you’ll get specific, practical tools and techniques you can use every day to be one of the stars of your camp and bring out the best in everyone. And these methods will qualify you throughout your life as you develop positive working relationships as a leader and manager of others.
This event is a live, virtual event and will utilize the Zoom Meeting platform. ACA Illinois will not record this event.
This is an interactive training course. Each person should be prepared to have their camera on, access to audio (including ability to speak and hear,) and interact within the Zoom room via a computer. Bring a notebook/paper and pen for activities.
There will be a short break for lunch during the event.
This is a per person fee event. This event requires camera, computer, and audio access for the participants as it’s designed to be interactive. Any user that has additional persons in attendance that are not registered will be automatically removed from the event without refund.
Illinois has a strong day and overnight camp community and we want to make sure the world knows about us!
Get involved and have tons of fun showing off your camp this coming Illinois Summer Camp Day! Illinois Summer Camp Day allows each of us to showcase the essential work and support that camp provides to the community including child care, youth development, jobs, and more!
Camps are encouraged to invite their local, state, and/or federal government representatives out to camp during the summer. During this visit, camp professionals can share with community leaders their success, challenges, and needs. It's vital for our representatives to understand the unique needs of the camp industry when they make decisions while in office - decisions that will ultimately impact our ability to meet our missions.
Camp is essential to our greater community. With over half of America’s youth attending a camp program each summer, we know that camp shapes future leaders, supports working families, and provides life changing development experiences for all people. Join us as we share the intentional work and potential behind the camp experience this summer!
NEW in 2026: Stay Connected - Complete the Registration
If you are interested in staying connected and/or getting involved, please consider registering. Once registered, you’ll receive updates, reminders, toolkits, support, and more! Registration is not required to participate in Illinois Summer Camp Day - just a helpful way to stay connected!
NOT A CAMP BUT WANT TO HELP OUR CAUSE? Camp Directors are very busy in the spring and summer. Many want to participate but find it difficult to navigate the communication needed to set up the visit. We need Mentors who can help camps get connected, scheduled, and visited this summer. As a Mentor, we’ll match you with a camp that wants to participate but needs a bit of extra support. Your support and help will strengthen the entire camp community!
This is a live, in-person event at each participating camp.
This event includes pre-work, inviting your local representatives to camp. Register to get more information on this.
Mailing Address:
American Camp Association, Illinois I PO Box 5412, Evanston, IL 60204
American Camp Association, Illinois
5 S Wabash Ave
Suite 1406
Chicago, IL 60603
Phone: 312-332-0833
Email: info@acail.org
Website: acail.org
