American Camp Association Secures $400,000 Grant for Enhanced Disaster Preparedness for Camps
The American Camp Association® (ACA) has embarked on a significant initiative, launching the program "Strengthen Disaster Preparedness and Response at Camp" thanks to a generous $400,000 grant from Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies (MACP). This national endeavor focuses on empowering camps to effectively tackle the increasing challenges posed by climate-related disasters.
With the escalating frequency of severe weather events—ranging from floods to wildfires—camps across the United States are under growing pressure to enhance their operational resilience. ACA's initiative aims to address these challenges by providing critical resources and a structured accreditation support program specifically designed for financially vulnerable camps. Through an application process, as many as 50 camps will be selected to receive tailored assistance as they work towards achieving accreditation. This accreditation framework not only enhances camp safety and emergency preparedness but also boosts overall program quality.
The assistance provided through this initiative is particularly crucial for camps that may lack the necessary resources to implement comprehensive disaster preparedness measures. As stated by Henry DeHart, CEO of ACA, "These new preparedness efforts will help us eliminate barriers for camps that are the most susceptible to weather-related disasters. By investing in accreditation support and extending access to high-caliber training, we are fostering safer and more resilient environments for campers and staff alike."
In addition to the accreditation support, the MACP grant will facilitate ACA's Climate Symposium, a virtual training event aimed at camp leaders nationwide. This symposium will showcase expert keynote speakers as well as specialized breakout sessions on climate-related disaster readiness and response strategies, ensuring that the entire camping community benefits from the most recent research, tools, and best practices available in the field.
As we navigate into an era of increased climate instability, the urgency for camps to be equipped with adequate disaster preparedness becomes more apparent. Camps are not only responsible for the well-being of campers but also for ensuring staff safety and effective operational management amidst potential crises. By implementing frameworks that prioritize preparedness, ACA seeks to raise the standards across the entire camping industry.
This initiative signifies a proactive step towards fortifying the camping community against the unpredictable nature of climate change while fostering an environment of safety and support. As ACA emphasizes the importance of these efforts, the organization remains committed to continuous improvement and advocacy for high-quality camp experiences across the nation.
The American Camp Association is a renowned entity serving over 15,000 year-round and summer camps in the U.S., annually catering to approximately 26 million campers. Through its advocacy work and professional development initiatives, ACA strives to promote exceptional camp experiences that contribute positively to the development of children, youth, and adults.
To learn more about the Strengthen Disaster Preparedness and Response at Camp initiative and find resources, visit ACAcamps.org/preparedness-project. With such investments in preparedness, the hope is to see a more resilient and prepared camp community ready to face future climate challenges that may arise.
With the escalating frequency of severe weather events—ranging from floods to wildfires—camps across the United States are under growing pressure to enhance their operational resilience. ACA's initiative aims to address these challenges by providing critical resources and a structured accreditation support program specifically designed for financially vulnerable camps. Through an application process, as many as 50 camps will be selected to receive tailored assistance as they work towards achieving accreditation. This accreditation framework not only enhances camp safety and emergency preparedness but also boosts overall program quality.
The assistance provided through this initiative is particularly crucial for camps that may lack the necessary resources to implement comprehensive disaster preparedness measures. As stated by Henry DeHart, CEO of ACA, "These new preparedness efforts will help us eliminate barriers for camps that are the most susceptible to weather-related disasters. By investing in accreditation support and extending access to high-caliber training, we are fostering safer and more resilient environments for campers and staff alike."
In addition to the accreditation support, the MACP grant will facilitate ACA's Climate Symposium, a virtual training event aimed at camp leaders nationwide. This symposium will showcase expert keynote speakers as well as specialized breakout sessions on climate-related disaster readiness and response strategies, ensuring that the entire camping community benefits from the most recent research, tools, and best practices available in the field.
As we navigate into an era of increased climate instability, the urgency for camps to be equipped with adequate disaster preparedness becomes more apparent. Camps are not only responsible for the well-being of campers but also for ensuring staff safety and effective operational management amidst potential crises. By implementing frameworks that prioritize preparedness, ACA seeks to raise the standards across the entire camping industry.
This initiative signifies a proactive step towards fortifying the camping community against the unpredictable nature of climate change while fostering an environment of safety and support. As ACA emphasizes the importance of these efforts, the organization remains committed to continuous improvement and advocacy for high-quality camp experiences across the nation.
The American Camp Association is a renowned entity serving over 15,000 year-round and summer camps in the U.S., annually catering to approximately 26 million campers. Through its advocacy work and professional development initiatives, ACA strives to promote exceptional camp experiences that contribute positively to the development of children, youth, and adults.
To learn more about the Strengthen Disaster Preparedness and Response at Camp initiative and find resources, visit ACAcamps.org/preparedness-project. With such investments in preparedness, the hope is to see a more resilient and prepared camp community ready to face future climate challenges that may arise.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.