A Message from the President - the American Camping Association®

Camping Magazine, Nov-Dec, 2001

"When I despair; I remember that all through history the way of truth and love has always won. There have been tyrants and murderers and for a time they seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall - think of it, ALWAYS."

- Mahatma Gandhi

On September 11, 2001, America may have lost some innocence, but did not lose its idealism. The tragic losses are devastating, and we have entered a period that will require vigilance and courage and certainly alterations in our daily lives. It is critical to remember the values that make America great are evidenced in all of our camps and in our Association.

We express, through the camp experience, the true strength of the American community. It is important that we not lose sight of who we are and what we do. Each camp creates a real community that is understood by children and adults. We express democratic values and encourage diversity. Individuals are challenged and grow within the boundaries of our camp communities.

It is important for us to focus on the assets we have as members of the American Camping Association. The camp experience grew out of the strength of American values. We represent in our Association and in our camps the best of our society. Our Association relies on each of us to form a community of professionals who respond appropriately and with inspiration to our common needs. It seems likely that we will be focusing on how terrorism will impact on camps. Safety, as always, is our most important concern.

Recent events have provided ACA camps with a new opportunity to show how relevant the camp experience can be to our society. We can support and nurture the children who have been impacted by terrorism. Not only the children who have lost a friend or loved one, but also children whose lives have and will be disrupted. We know that all of us feel vulnerable and are seeking ways to offer our strength to those who can benefit from our efforts. Let us now do what we do best. . . enrich the lives of children and adults through the camp experience. As camp professionals, we can provide sanctuary to these children by offering more scholarships! We are already demonstrating leadership. The following special programs are being offered by a number of ACA sections and camps across the country:

* Camperships for children who lost one or more parents in the tragedy of September 11,

* Camperships for children of rescue workers,

* Camperships for children of military personnel called to serve their country,

* Bereavement camps,

* Family camps, and

* Special training and development for those who will be working with children impacted by the tragedy of September 11.

It is difficult, but we have all been told that we should return to our normal routines! For all ACA camp professionals, that means we continue our efforts to direct secure and meaningful camp communities. We must also support ACA by volunteering and participating in our "I Believe" annual campaign. In difficult times, we have the opportunity to add to the fabric of our society, but it will require effort and courage. Remember, our adversaries can only triumph if we allow them to change the nature of America and its institutions.