At Camp Chateaugay, we provide a Camper Advocate Program for all campers and staff each summer. It is a unique initiative that aims to ensure that every camper has a healthy and positive experience while at camp. The program consists of having a mental health professional on staff for the entire summer. The aim is to provide campers and staff with support, guidance, and encouragement throughout their stay. The Camper Advocate will check in with campers and staff regularly, listening to their concerns, and providing an extra level of support with any issues that arise. They also help campers seamlessly integrate into camp life, build relationships with other campers and staff, and participate in activities that align with their interests and abilities.

In May 2022, NY State passed a law that authorized summer camps to hire certain licensed professionals to provide services with psychologists, social workers and mental health practitioners. It also allows licensed physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists/audiologists, athletic trainers and applied behavior analysts to practice at camps. In the summer of 2022, we hired a school psychologist for a two week pilot program that was hugely successful. This summer our Camper Advocate will be returning for the full summer.

Additionally, the Camper Advocate trains our staff in effective techniques and strategies on a variety of issues ranging from homesickness to conflict resolution. The Camper Advocate can also communicate directly with any camper’s personal mental health professional. Together they create a proactive and responsive environment in which campers can thrive.

The Camper Advocate Program is part of Camp Chateaugay’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all campers.