Veteran Voices: Leading Camp Orientation

Too often, summer camp orientation is led by the camp director and assistant or associate directors. However, orientation can be even better when incorporating veteran voices from your experienced camp leadership and staff. This session highlights the unique strengths veteran staff bring to summer camp leadership and how to effectively incorporate them into orientation and training. Attendees will explore strategies for leveraging veterans’ experience, discipline, and leadership skills to enhance staff development and camp culture. Topics include creating roles that maximize veteran contributions, fostering mentorship opportunities, and blending leadership styles with camp values. Participants will gain practical tools for designing inclusive orientation programs that engage veterans and inspire all staff members. Leave ready to build a cohesive, skilled team that benefits from the proven leadership of veterans.