About Us |
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Who We Are
The American Camp Association, Illinois (ACA Illinois) is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization that operates from a service learning, or community engagement, model. Embracing experiential education and a style of learning that incorporates action and reflection, ACA Illinois provides opportunities for:
- Children to access camp through various funding programs;
- Camp Professionals to grow and strengthen their skills, knowledge and community resources; and
- Exclusive Association Membership through a local and national accreditation program.
Mission Statement
The American Camp Association is a community of camp professionals dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults through the camp experience.
Our Impact
In Illinois:
- 420,000 youth experienced day/overnight camp each year.
- 33% of camps serve children from economically disadvantaged households.
- 25% of camps provide substantial services for individuals with special needs.
- 35,325 seasonal and part-time people are employed each summer (June-August).
- 2,490 individuals are employed by camp agencies year round.
- 8,635 youth from economically disadvantaged backgrounds attended summer camp in 2019.
Illinois Camps report that:
- 84% of individuals who attend camp have an increased ability to establish positive relationships with adults.
- 82% of campers increase their ability to positively interact with peers.
- 84% of campers increase their ability to function independently.
- 82% of campers acquire positive values thanks to their camp experience.
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