Advocating for Camps
Our Executive Director’s Journey to Washington, D.C.
As the Vice President of Overnight Camping for YMCA Camp Greenville and a member of the American Camp Association (ACA) Government Relations Board, Cory Harrison recently had the incredible opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. This trip was not just a professional highlight but a pivotal moment in advocating for the issues that matter deeply to the camping community and the children and families we serve.
Read his reflections below:
Advocacy at the Heart of Our Nation
During my visit, I met with Senator Tim Scott and Senator Lindsay Graham, both representatives of South Carolina. Our discussions centered around critical issues affecting camps nationwide, including the implementation of the Child Protection Improvements Act (CPIA), the role of camps in youth workforce readiness, and the overall impact of camps on the development and supervision of school-aged children.
If these issues are unfamiliar to you, here’s a quick overview:
1. Child Protection Improvements Act (CPIA):
A law passed in 2017, CPIA aims to facilitate affordable and timely access to comprehensive national background checks for individuals working with vulnerable populations. Our current challenge, despite its passage, CPIA has yet to be fully implemented. The draft language released by the Department of Justice in 2023 did not address issues of timeliness and affordability. Our request was that we urged Senators to submit a letter to the DOJ, advocating for final guidance that ensures both affordable and timely access to these essential background checks.
2. Youth Workforce Readiness in Rural Areas:
Important to camps, especially in non-metropolitan areas, we provide crucial summer work experiences for in-school and out-of-school youth. These experiences help develop fundamental skills valued by colleges and employers. We requested the inclusion of language in the Senate HELP Committee report reauthorizing the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to support camp-based work opportunities.
3. Role of Camps in Child Supervision and Development:
Over 20,000 camps across the country serve more than 26 million children annually, providing critical supervision and developmental support, especially for working families. The economic and social contribution that camps offer immersive experiences that foster social skills and emotional growth, crucial for the future success of participants. We asked for recognition and support for the vital role camps play in both the childcare landscape and the broader economy.
Connecting with the Camp Greenville Community
Beyond the halls of Congress, I had the pleasure of meeting several Camp Greenville summer camp families residing in the D.C. area. These interactions were heartwarming and insightful, reinforcing the profound impact our camp has on families and children, even beyond the summer months. Hearing their stories and seeing the excitement in the eyes of our campers and parents was a reminder of why our advocacy work is so vital.
Exploring FEMA Headquarters
My trip concluded with a fascinating tour of the FEMA headquarters, courtesy of a camp parent who serves as a Deputy Director at FEMA. This experience provided a unique perspective on emergency management and the critical role of preparedness, underscoring the importance of safety and risk management practices that we prioritize at Camp Greenville.
Looking Ahead
This trip to Washington, D.C. was a significant step in advocating for the future of camps and the well-being of the children we serve. The support from Senators Scott and Graham, along with the engaging discussions and meaningful connections, have strengthened our resolve to continue this vital work. Together, we can unlock a future where all children have the opportunity to thrive through the transformative power of camp experiences.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to making a difference in the lives of so many young people. Let's keep the momentum going and advocate for the changes we wish to see.
For more information about the American Camp Association and the issues we discussed, please visit ACA's website.
This blog post reflects the passion and dedication we all share for the camping community. I look forward to your feedback and continued engagement as we work together to champion these important causes.
