WINTER 2024
LASTING IMPACT
THE CASE FOR CAMP Now More Than Ever Ellie Thompson Pennell, Hive Director Jenn Merritt, Communications Director
“Camp is more important than ever.” Way back in those early camp days, the Gulicks most likely made that statement every summer — through the First and Second World Wars, through the Great Depression, the turbulent 60s and until their retirement. The Trustees of the Foundation at its very beginning in 1968 clearly believed it as well, as they struggled to keep the dream alive. But camp at this moment in our history feels especially critical for children and young people in ways that are, if not completely new, certainly deeper than ever before. We knew about the significance of camp intrinsically and observed it anecdotally working with nearly 1,000 campers and their families. As further evidence, we heard the same sentiment echoed by industry leaders in the American Camp Association (ACA), camp parents, and school partners. When children around the world transitioned from sharing physical space and in-person relationships to “attending” school via Zoom, camp offered, quite literally, a breath of fresh air. It promised kids (and concerned parents) what was needed most: the chance to form authentic bonds with others in a community curated just for them, away from technology, immersed in the natural world. Continued on page 3 ...
There’s so much to learn on the ropes course. Here Hivers challenge themselves and practice teamwork by supporting their peers with encouragement and patience.
Inside This Issue
2
Message from Vanessa Riegler
Success Leadership Program
4
Lanakila Reunion
6
News & Updates
9