The holiday season may seem like an unusual time to keep summertime in our hearts, but as I settle into this cozy season, I can’t help but be reminded of camp. The fire in the fireplace feels a lot like the campfire’s glow, where we gather close, share stories, and feel that deep sense of togetherness that defines our Alleghany family.
This time of year always brings a wave of gratitude, and so many of the blessings in my life are connected to Camp Alleghany. I’m thankful for our campers who bring such spirit and joy to every summer. I’m thankful for our incredible staff who give their time, energy, and hearts to create an unforgettable experience for others. I’m thankful for our parents and families who trust us year after year, and for our alumni whose love for camp continues to shine across generations. Having this community, this shared belief in what camp means, is one of the greatest gifts of my life.
I’m also grateful for the lessons that come from the more challenging parts of this work. Over the years, I’ve learned that growth often begins in the hardest places. I’m thankful for honest parent and camper feedback, whether through surveys or phone calls, because it helps us see where we can do better. I’m thankful for unpredictable weather and river events that test our plans, because they push us to strengthen our systems and preparedness. I’m thankful for tough conversations with staff or parents that stretch me personally and teach me patience, empathy, and leadership.
I’m even thankful for the complicated business side of camp – the payroll, budgeting, insurance, and logistics – because those responsibilities have forced me to grow new skills and appreciate the intricate work that makes every summer possible.
And perhaps most of all, I’m thankful for the storms we’ve weathered as a community. From the 2016 flood that tested our spirit, to the 2020 closure that silenced our songs for a season, to the staffing and health challenges that followed in the years after – each one stretched us in ways we never anticipated. Yet through every obstacle, our community showed up with an outpouring of love, generosity, and belief in what Camp Alleghany stands for. Those seasons reminded me that resilience isn’t just about rebuilding tents or rewriting plans, it’s about the people who refuse to give up on something they love. They revealed the depth of our collective commitment and the steady heartbeat of this place. Camp Alleghany isn’t just strong, it’s steadfast, because of all of you.
As we head into Thanksgiving, I hope you’ll take a moment to keep camp in your hearts. Remember the laughter, the songs, the river breeze, and the friendships that last long after summer ends. May your homes be filled with warmth, gratitude, and the same kind of connection that makes Alleghany so special.
From our camp family to yours, I wish you a joyful and heartfelt Thanksgiving.
