At age 11, Marcus first attended camp shy, homesick, and unsure of himself. Today, at 15, he’s a head junior counselor, mentoring new campers and co-leading our signature “Confidence Circles.” His story exemplifies how immersive programs can spark a lifelong passion.

Year 1: Taking the First Step

Marcus’s first summer focused on social skill-building. With 1:1 counselor support and daily “Camp Challenges”—simple tasks like introducing himself to a new friend—he began to open up. By Week 4, he was volunteering to read bedtime stories in the cabin.

Year 2–3: Building Skills and Responsibility

Returning as a camper, Marcus set higher goals: learn to kayak solo and co-facilitate an art workshop. Staff witnessed his growth firsthand as he mastered paddling and later guided a group in creating a camp mural. His confidence soared, and he began helping counselors with small tasks—distributing art supplies, leading warm-ups, and encouraging quieter campers.

Year 4: Stepping into Leadership

Invited to join our “RamaYear” gap-year service program at 14, Marcus completed intensive training in behavior support, group facilitation, and crisis management. This spring, he’s served as a Junior Counselor—designing daily activity plans, coaching cabin leaders, and co-hosting nightly “Story Circles.”

Transformative Outcomes

Marcus’s parents share that his maturity extends beyond camp: he tutors peers in school, volunteers at his local library, and speaks confidently in public settings. His journey illustrates the compounded benefits of multi-year engagement: each summer built upon the last, moving him from tentative camper to empowered leader.

Lessons for Families

• Longitudinal Engagement allows skills to deepen over time.
• Service Opportunities instill responsibility and purpose.
• Peer Mentoring provides relatable role models for new campers.