It’s time for one of the best parts of the camp “off-season” year. It’s the time when enthusiastic camp moms (and other camp friends) throw events in their local areas to bring Camp Alleghany up-close and in-person to curious parents and would-be campers.
First I’ll tell you about two upcoming events, and then I’ll share what you can expect and even tips for throwing a party yourself, and when you do, what’s in it for you! (The photo gallery posted below is from previous parties.)
And before I continue, I’d like to send a shout-out to Natalie (Litz) Bissonnette, an alum who is also the Head of Family Camp. She hosted a great Mini Camp party in Baltimore this past November. It was successful, and well-attended, and we’re thankful for all her hard work!
Charlottesville and Charlotte parties
We’re really excited that Ace (Elder) Dandridge, a Camp Alleghany alum herself, and the mom of three ‘Ghany Girls, will host a Mini Camp Information Party in Charlottesville, Virginia on February 21. Since she has one daughter who is still a camper, and one who is currently a counselor, this party is a great way to gets lots of insight from many perspectives. If you’re interested in attending this party, or know someone who we should add to the invitation list, just let me know.
Another party that we’re psyched for is happening in Charlotte, North Carolina on February 28 and is co-hosted by two Camp Alleghany Alums.
Sarah (Alexander) Biehl, who attended Alleghany as a camper and counselor, is currently a camp mom of two ‘Ghany Girls, and is also Head Hopper at Family Camp. Her co-host is Anne (Stokes) Bowman who attended Alleghany for many years and is mom of four children, two girls, one of whom is attending Mini Camp for the first time this summer!
Again, if you’re interested in attending this party, or know someone who we should add to the invitation list, just let me know.
I know that both of these parties will be overflowing with the ‘Ghany spirit and also a place to get good solid information and all your questions answered.
And did I mention fun?!
Super cool party people
So here’s how these parties usually work, with variations based on the creative impulses of the hosts.
These are definitely fun, casual gatherings at a current camper’s home (or sometimes in a nearby rec center, school, or other location that camper has access to), hosted by the camper’s mom/parents (sometimes grandmother!)
The host mom doesn’t have to be an Alleghany alum herself to host one of these, just a strong supporter of Alleghany, and ideally someone who has already had a daughter attend at least one summer and has cultivated some kind of relationship with us.
The idea is to invite as many people you know who are camp-aged to come and learn about camp. This particular year, it’s ideal to only invite Mini Camp-aged guests and their parents since we are already full for both Terms and both have waiting lists. (Of course Mini Camp is seeing regular registrations, too, and with only a maximum of 80 spaces in Mini Camp, if you know you want your daughter to go, now is the time to secure her spot.)
But back to the parties…
We’re there to socialize a bit, and get to know each other, but then we settle down to learn a bit about Camp. We show our “The Magic of Camp Alleghany” and/or “The Magic of Mini Camp” video(s), and we sometimes have the kids do a camp craft together while the parents ask questions
When it comes to decorating, hosts often create a fun display of their own camp paraphernalia, such as pictures, patch pillows, tee-shirts or tee-shirt quilts, and more!
And of course, camp-themed snacks are often offered, such as peppermint patties with peanut butter, and bug juice, etc.
I’ve even seen hosts do a cake with a picture of Alleghany screen printed on the icing, or a camp tent, canoes, etc.
My dad and I actually attend as many of these parties as we can, and the hostesses usually prefer if we’re there. We field questions, share anecdotes, and help paint a clear picture of what to expect from camp. Taylor will attend, too, when she can.
Next month Sam and I will definitely be at the Charlottesville party, but probably not at the Charlotte event due to scheduling conflicts. But usually the events feature a poised young camper, JCs, or current counselors to help share their wisdom.
Overall it’s a spirited time, and sometimes it’s even a reunion of sorts when former camp friends find themselves now in the role of moms to campers and would-be campers.
And for friends who would be totally new to Camp Alleghany, it’s a great way to share your Alleghany experiences and get friends on board through a deep understanding of how sleepaway summer camp is part of a holistic, year-round education experience for kids.
The role and rewards of hosting
Anyone that feels they have the understanding of Camp Alleghany, and prior relationship with us, who is interested in seeing if their locality/region might benefit from a party can contact me for more information. We do have a sheet with tips and tricks for putting together a well-organized party that would best serve the needs of the host, camp, and prospective camp families.
And there’s some incentives for hosts as well, to help make your time and effort worthwhile. I can tell you about that if you’re interested in starting the hosting process.
Of course there’s a contract, and certain guidelines to follow, but overall there’s great potential to have fun, make new friends, see old friends, spread the Ghany love, and earn a few rewards!
So whether you’re a prospective camp family, an alum who knows young girls who should learn about camp, or an existing camp family that wants to spread the ‘Ghany love, there are lots of ways to get involved and connect during this season around camp parties. As always, if you’re interested, contact me for details. on any of the above.
In the meantime — stay warm!*
— Elizabeth Dawson Shreckhise, Assistant Director, Camp Alleghany for Girls
*And PS, if you don’t want to wait or take any chances, register your daughter for Mini Camp today.
