At Camp Alleghany, summer follows a familiar rhythm defined by traditions, transitions, and shared moments. One of the most distinctive pauses in that rhythm is Changeover—the day between First and Second Term, when full-term campers remain at camp while others depart and new arrivals have yet to arrive. It is a quieter, in-between moment in the season that offers space to recharge, reflect, and re-center before the energy of a new term begins.
Changeover is much more than simply downtime; it is a moment of deliberate care and meaningful community. For many campers, this period can feel bittersweet. Saying farewell to friends from First Term while awaiting the arrival of new campers often stirs a complex blend of emotions—uncertainty, sadness, and sometimes loneliness. It is precisely these feelings that make Changeover such a vital part of the camp experience.
Our Full Term Campers
Full-term campers hold a special place in the heart of Camp Alleghany. Their extended time here means they become a core part of the community—building deep friendships, developing skills, and helping shape the camp culture in ways that resonate all summer long. Because they experience both terms, full-termers live through the entire arc of camp life, with all its excitement, challenges, and moments of growth.
Changeover is a pivotal day in that journey. It marks a transition that can feel both physical—shifting between terms—and emotional, as campers process farewells and prepare to welcome new faces. For full-term campers, watching friends leave while waiting for the next group to arrive can bring up feelings of restlessness or a sense that something is missing. This makes strong leadership and support essential—providing thoughtful opportunities for connection, reflection, and grounding during this transitional time.
Leading the Charge
This year’s Changeover Leaders—Grace Kendrick, Rachel Moore, and Ollie Dorman—brought exactly that kind of leadership. As former campers and long-time Alleghany girls, they know camp life deeply. Their warmth, leadership, and genuine connection to camp helped create an environment of comfort and fun, transforming what could be a challenging day into one that felt meaningful and positive. From the moment campers woke up on Changeover morning, they were met with a well-balanced mix of structure and spontaneity, designed to keep spirits up and campers engaged.
They planned a day that was relaxed but intentional, balancing free time with simple, camp-style activities to keep everyone involved. Just as importantly, they were present in the in-between moments—sitting down during bracelet-making, chatting during rest hour, joining a card game, or offering encouragement during a float down the river. Their leadership brought a calm, steady energy that helped campers move through the day with more confidence and ease.
All the Fun
Throughout the day, campers participated in a thoughtfully planned selection of activities: a card game tournament, friendship bracelet-making, a hike to Brunswick—one of our camp properties—followed by a river float, Free Swim, movie night, and of course, s’mores by the fire. The goal was not to fill every moment but to provide a balanced mix of activity and downtime, allowing campers time to relax, enjoy each other’s company, and recharge.
More than the activities themselves, it was the tone set by the Changeover Moms that shaped the experience. Through their understanding, attention, and calm approach, they helped campers navigate the emotional transition. Even during the quieter moments of this mid-summer break, the sense of community stayed strong—showing that Alleghany is not just about keeping busy, but about being supported and connected throughout the day.
Changeover at Alleghany
We recognize how important it is to support our full-term campers during Changeover, which is why we invest so much care and attention into the day. Caring for our full-term campers during Changeover is truly a privilege. It allows us to honor their commitment to camp, meet their needs with intention, and celebrate the unique role they play in the Alleghany community. With thoughtful planning, attentive leadership, and a genuine spirit of connection, we strive to make this day one of comfort and joy—helping campers recharge and ready themselves for the adventures still to come.
Ultimately, Changeover is about more than just the day itself. It’s about reinforcing the values that make Camp Alleghany a home away from home: care, community, and continuity. We are grateful for every full-term camper who chooses to spend their summer with us, and we look forward to continuing to support and celebrate them throughout their camp experience.
Caring for our full-term campers during Changeover is truly a privilege. It allows us to honor their commitment to camp, meet their needs with intention, and celebrate the unique role they play in the Alleghany community. With thoughtful planning, attentive leadership, and a genuine spirit of connection, we strive to make this day one of comfort and joy—helping campers recharge and ready themselves for the adventures still to come.
Ultimately, Changeover is about more than just the day itself. It’s about reinforcing the values that make Camp Alleghany a home away from home: care, community, and continuity. We are grateful for every full-term camper who chooses to spend their summer with us, and we look forward to continuing to support and celebrate them throughout their camp experience.
