#United States #Lilly Endowment #American Camp Association #Martinsville #Character at Camp

American Camp Association Supports Camps with Grants

The American Camp Association (ACA) recently revealed that it has chosen 77 camps across the United States to receive funding through its Character at Camp Initiative. This initiative is designed to foster character development in campers and camp staff alike. A total of $10.7 million in grants are being allocated in this first round of a broader $45 million project, initially funded by a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc.

Funding Purpose and Selection Process

The ACA launched its Character at Camp Initiative in 2024, calling camps to apply for grants to either create new character-focused programs, enhance currently existing ones, or develop scalable initiatives within regional or national camp networks. The program was met with significant competition, with a selection process involving 120 trained volunteers from the camp field who ensured a fair evaluation of all applications.

There are multiple types of grants available within the program, including planning grants for camps preparing for implementation, as well as implementation grants which are awarded to camps ready to kick-off their character development projects. Additionally, funding was allotted to 14 camp networks preparing comprehensive proposals for the second wave of funding expected in spring 2026.

Diverse Range of Camps Benefiting

The camps awarded funding reflect a diverse representation from various backgrounds, including day and overnight programs, and serve unique populations such as children with medical needs and youth from economically challenged communities. Notably, several awardees are associated with renowned organizations like the YMCAs, Girl Scouts, and Jewish Community Centers.

Through this initiative, the selected camps aim to enhance character strengths such as integrity, resilience, honesty, courage, and a sense of community. Camps are set to launch their programs with a timeframe ranging from two to three years as early as 2026.

Expert Insight on Character Development

Henry DeHart, CEO of the ACA, emphasizes the pivotal role that camps play in nurturing essential character traits. He notes, "Camps are uniquely positioned to nurture various character strengths when they are reinforced across a young person's daily camp experiences and environments." The initiative not only benefits campers but also invests in developing emerging camp leaders, including those in training and seasonal staff, while also fostering partnerships within the community.

What’s Next?

A comprehensive list of the awardees can be found on the ACA’s Character at Camp webpage. The funded projects will be monitored and celebrated throughout their duration via the ACA’s Character Academy, an online hub for best practices in character development. Camps are expected to prepare for their launches with great anticipation as they work to educate and empower their campers through these initiatives.

As the spring approaches in 2026, an additional round of funding is set to be announced that will extend these valuable initiatives across an even broader spectrum of camps.

For more information on the ACA, visit ACAcamps.org.