Camp is for Everyone: Intentional Inclusion of Gender-Expansive Teens at Camp

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/jyd.2022.1250

Keywords:

gender-expansive youth, summer camp, LGBTQ , inclusion, 4-H

Abstract

Camp remains a powerful experience for youth of any age, but special care must be taken to ensure camps are supportive of diverse audiences. This article describes the process by which 4-H camp organizers created a welcoming and affirming camp for teen dependents of active duty, retired, or veteran military personnel, especially those campers who identified as non-binary or LGBTQ+. This included careful consideration of language used in recruitment documents, evaluation documents, volunteer and staff training, as well as communication with campers and families. Through careful planning and implementation, the 4-H adventure camps engaged over 90 teens, and survey results showed statistically significant improvements in camper perceptions of self-worth and satisfaction after their camp experience.

Author Biography

Ashley M. Hall, Washington State University

WSU Extension 4-H, Assistant Professor

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Published

2022-12-15

Issue

Vol. 17 No. 4 (2022)

Section

Program & Practice Articles

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