Nestled in the scenic heart of Vermont, Aloha Camp offers a picturesque setting for an unforgettable summer experience. Situated in Fairlee, this camp is surrounded by natural beauty, including lush forests and the serene Lake Morey, making it a prime location for adventure and exploration.

Aloha Camp has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1905. It was established as a place where young people could come together to learn, grow, and develop in a supportive and enriching environment. Over the years, it has maintained its commitment to fostering a sense of community and personal growth among its campers.

The mission of Aloha Camp is to inspire young individuals to be caring, confident, and enthusiastic community members. It emphasizes a philosophy of respect for oneself and others, and the development of a strong character through positive outdoor experiences.

Aloha Camp is a traditional overnight camp specifically designed for girls. It caters to various age groups, providing age-appropriate activities that ensure each camper receives a tailored and impactful summer experience. Through a blend of adventure, creativity, and friendship, Aloha Camp continues to be a cherished summer destination, helping young girls discover their potential and form lasting bonds.

Programs Offered by Aloha Camp

Aloha Camp provides a diverse array of programs designed to engage and inspire young girls through a mix of traditional camp activities and specialized interests. Each program is thoughtfully structured to promote personal growth, skill development, and a deep appreciation for community and nature.

Description of the Programs

Aloha Camp offers various session lengths to accommodate different family needs and camper desires. Options typically include:

One-week sessions are primarily aimed at younger campers or those new to the overnight camp experience.
Two-week sessions that allow for deeper exploration of camp activities and community building.
Full summer options for a comprehensive, immersive camp experience.

Specialty Programs

Aloha Camp is known for its wide range of specialty programs that cater to diverse interests. These include:

Arts: Campers can explore creative expression through activities such as painting, sculpture, theater, and dance.
Sports: A variety of sports programs are available, including swimming, archery, canoeing, and hiking, each emphasizing skill development and teamwork.
Science: Designed to spark curiosity and engagement, the science programs might include environmental studies, nature exploration, and basic astronomy.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Aloha Camp is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, rest, and free time, allowing campers to thrive both individually and as a group. The daily schedule might look something like this:

7:30 AM – Wake Up
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Morning Activities (e.g., arts and crafts, sports)
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:00 PM – Rest Hour
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities (e.g., lake activities, science programs)
5:00 PM – Free Time
6:00 PM – Dinner
7:00 PM – Evening Program (e.g., campfire, talent show)
9:00 PM – Lights Out

Each day is thoughtfully planned to ensure campers enjoy a fulfilling mix of active engagement and necessary downtime, promoting a healthy, happy camp environment.

Accommodations in Aloha Camp

Aloha Camp offers well-thought-out accommodations that blend comfort with the rustic charm of outdoor living, ensuring a pleasant stay for all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Aloha Camp are housed in traditional wooden cabins that embody the classic camp experience. These cabins are designed to foster a sense of community and teamwork among campers:

Cabins are typically shared between 8 to 12 campers, depending on age and group size, along with one or two counselors who ensure safety and guidance.
The cabins are strategically placed to offer beautiful views of the surrounding nature and easy access to the camp’s main facilities and activity areas.

Dining Options

Aloha Camp understands the importance of nutrition and the role it plays in the energy levels and overall health of campers. They provide:

Meal Plans: The camp offers three well-balanced meals a day served in a communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat together, fostering a family-like atmosphere.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding various dietary needs, Aloha Camp is equipped to accommodate special dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s dietary needs with the camp staff ahead of time to ensure appropriate measures are in place.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are conveniently located near the cabins. These facilities are maintained with high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
Separate shower areas are provided, with scheduled times for use to ensure privacy and minimal waiting periods.

Overall, Aloha Camp’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to ensure that all campers are comfortable and well-cared for, allowing them to focus on their activities and enjoy their summer camp experience to the fullest.

Activities in Aloha Camp

Aloha Camp offers a robust selection of activities that cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels. These activities are designed to build confidence, foster skills, and create lasting friendships among campers.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming and Water Sports: Activities include swimming lessons, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing on Lake Morey, providing ample opportunities for water-based fun and learning.
Hiking: Exploring the natural trails around the camp, hiking activities range from short, leisurely walks to more challenging hikes that offer beautiful vistas of the Vermont landscape.
Crafts: A wide array of crafting opportunities such as pottery, jewelry making, and woodworking allow campers to express their creativity and take home personal souvenirs.
Performing Arts: Summer camps can engage in drama, dance, and music workshops, culminating often in performances for their fellow campers.
Sports: Traditional camp sports like archery, soccer, tennis, and volleyball are available, emphasizing both fun and teamwork.

Special Events or Traditions

Aloha Camp is rich with traditions and special events that enhance the camp experience:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, fostering a sense of unity and celebration of achievements.
Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, quintessential elements of the classic camp experience.
Special Theme Days: These might include backward day, superhero day, or international day, encouraging creativity and a break from the routine.
End-of-Session Banquet: A formal dinner where achievements are recognized, friendships celebrated, and memories shared.

Skill Development Opportunities

The activities at Aloha Camp are not only fun but also structured to develop practical skills and personal growth:

Leadership: Older campers are given opportunities to lead activities, mentor younger campers, and participate in leadership workshops.
Environmental Stewardship: Through nature walks and conservation projects, campers learn about environmental responsibility and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Artistic Expression: Through various arts and crafts, campers explore different mediums and methods, which helps in developing their artistic talents and critical thinking.
Physical Fitness: Regular participation in various sports and outdoor activities promotes physical health and teaches the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle.

Through these activities, Aloha Camp aims to provide a holistic experience that supports all aspects of a camper’s development, making each summer not just fun, but truly transformative.

The staff of Aloha Camp

The staff at Aloha Camp plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe, enriching, and enjoyable summer experience for all campers. The camp prides itself on its high staff standards, from the selection process through to the training and day-to-day responsibilities.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Aloha Camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives attentive care and supervision. Typically, the ratio is about one staff member to every four to six campers, depending on the age group and specific activities. This low ratio helps foster a nurturing environment where campers can receive individual attention and support.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: The hiring process at Aloha Camp is rigorous. It involves thorough background checks, multiple interviews, and reference checks to ensure that all staff members are not only qualified but also have a genuine passion for working with children and youth.
Qualifications: Staff members often come from a variety of educational backgrounds, including education, psychology, sports science, and the arts. Many are also former campers themselves, who bring a deep understanding of the camp’s culture and traditions.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo comprehensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity-specific safety.
Certifications: All staff members are required to have up-to-date certifications in CPR and First Aid. Those involved in specific activities such as swimming, boating, or archery may also be required to hold additional certifications relevant to their roles (e.g., lifeguarding, and coaching certifications).
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing training sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any emerging needs or challenges.

Aloha Camp’s commitment to high-quality staff and thorough training ensures a safe environment where campers can thrive while exploring new activities, developing skills, and building lasting friendships.

Safety and Health in Aloha Camp

Aloha Camp places a high priority on the safety and health of all its campers and staff. The camp has developed comprehensive safety protocols and maintains well-equipped health facilities to ensure a secure environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: Aloha Camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in the event of an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety Protocols: Each activity offered at the camp, from swimming to hiking and archery, has specific safety guidelines that are strictly enforced. Staff supervising these activities are specially trained and certified as needed.
Nighttime Security: The camp employs a nighttime security protocol, including a curfew for campers and rounds conducted by security staff to ensure that the camp is secure and all campers are safe throughout the night.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Aloha Camp has a dedicated health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a camp doctor on call. The health center is equipped to handle routine medical issues and is prepared to stabilize and manage more serious health emergencies until further medical treatment can be accessed.
Medication Management: The health center staff are responsible for storing and administering any medications campers need, following strict protocols to ensure safety and accuracy.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan in place, which includes procedures for responding to individual health emergencies, natural disasters, and other urgent situations.
Communication Protocols: In the event of an emergency, the camp has a clear protocol for communication. Parents are notified immediately of any serious incident involving their child, and ongoing updates are provided as needed.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Aloha Camp maintains strong relationships with local emergency services, ensuring a quick response time for any incident requiring external intervention.

Through these rigorous safety measures and health protocols, Aloha Camp strives to provide a secure and supportive environment where campers can enjoy their summer activities with peace of mind for both them and their parents.

Cost and Registration in Aloha Camp

Aloha Camp provides a structured registration process and transparent fee structure, ensuring that families can plan effectively for their children’s summer experiences. Understanding the financial commitment involved, the camp also offers various financial aid options to make the experience accessible to a wider community.

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

Cost: The cost of attending Aloha Camp varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Prices generally cover all camp activities, meals, accommodation, and standard camp supplies.
Inclusions: The fee typically includes full participation in all scheduled activities, 24-hour supervision, three meals per day plus snacks, lodging in camp cabins, and any basic medical care provided at the camp’s health center.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process: Families can register their children for Aloha Camp through the camp’s official website, where they fill out an application form and submit it electronically.
Deadlines: Registration usually opens several months in advance of the camp season, with early registration discounts available. Specific deadlines for each session are clearly stated on the camp’s website, and spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Aloha Camp offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of the camp. These plans typically allow families to break down the total cost into several installments.
Refunds and Cancellation: The camp’s cancellation policy usually includes a non-refundable deposit at the time of registration. Partial refunds may be available up to a certain date, beyond which the camp may retain a larger portion of the fee or offer no refund, depending on the timing of the cancellation.
Insurance: Families are often encouraged to purchase third-party insurance to cover potential cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

Scholarships: Aloha Camp offers scholarships to help reduce the financial burden on families who need assistance. These scholarships are typically need-based and require the submission of an application with supporting financial documents.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available in various forms, such as sliding scale fees or discounts for siblings attending the camp together.

Aloha Camp’s comprehensive financial support options ensure that a diverse group of campers has the opportunity to experience the enriching environment the camp offers, regardless of their financial situation.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Aloha Camp

Preparing for a stay at Aloha Camp involves understanding what to pack, familiarizing oneself with the camp’s rules and policies, and gaining insights into how to make the most of the camp experience. Here’s a guide to help parents and first-time campers get ready for a memorable summer.

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need, Aloha Camp provides a detailed packing list, which typically includes:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate attire including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, swimwear, a jacket, and rain gear.
Footwear: Comfortable shoes for activities, sandals, and waterproof boots.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Equipment: Flashlight, water bottle, and optional items like a camera (non-smartphone).
Special Items: Any required medications, labeled and with clear instructions.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To promote engagement and interaction, Aloha Camp generally restricts the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Cameras that are not part of a phone may be allowed.
Visitation: There are specific visiting days during the camp session when families can visit campers. Outside of these days, visits are discouraged to maintain the program’s integrity and schedule.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that emphasizes respect, responsibility, and community. Specific rules regarding behavior, bullying, and respect for camp property are strictly enforced.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Talk about what the camp experience will involve, focusing on the fun activities and new friendships.
Communication: Discuss how you’ll communicate during their time at camp. Although direct contact might be limited, writing letters or sending emails can be an excellent way for parents and campers to stay connected.
Emotional Readiness: Especially for younger campers, it’s important to discuss homesickness and strategies to cope with it, like keeping busy and making new friends.
Expectations: Set realistic expectations about camp life, including the communal living aspects like sharing a cabin and chores.

By thoroughly preparing for their time at camp, both parents and campers can feel more comfortable and excited about the upcoming adventure at Aloha Camp. This preparation helps ensure that the camp experience is not only enjoyable but also enriching and transformative.

Aloha Camp, set against the stunning backdrop of Fairlee, Vermont, stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth for young girls. With its rich history and deeply ingrained traditions, the camp offers a variety of programs designed to nurture skills, foster friendships, and build strong community ties. From swimming in Lake Morey to crafting and exploring the wilderness, Aloha Camp provides a safe, enriching environment where every camper can thrive.

The careful attention to safety, health protocols, and staff training ensures that parents can trust in the camp’s commitment to their child’s well-being. The diverse activities and specialized programs are thoughtfully tailored to encourage not only fun but also meaningful developmental experiences. Moreover, Aloha Camp’s dedication to inclusivity through scholarships and financial aid programs underscores its philosophy that summer camp should be accessible to all.