In a competitive landscape where enticing starting wages at local establishments like McDonald's attract individuals, and camps engage in fierce competition for staff, Camp Manito-wish YMCA stands out through its innovative approach. Leveraging an endowed Staff Grant fund, the camp has created a powerful tool to eliminate barriers that might dissuade potential staff from considering employment for the upcoming summer season.

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by potential staff contemplating employment at an overnight wilderness tripping camp, several key barriers have been identified. These include logistical hurdles like certification expenses, traveling to Boulder Junction, Wisconsin, financial strains related to maintaining rent expenses during mandatory on-site presence, and the significant costs associated with acquiring necessary tripping gear.

To address these challenges, Camp Manito-wish YMCA has instituted a Staff Grant program, offering staff the opportunity to apply for financial assistance. This not only eliminates the financial stress typically associated with taking a break from current commitments but also acknowledges the reality that camp wages may not rival those offered by local establishments.

For eligibility, staff members must secure a position for the upcoming season, and funds are distributed upon the completion of their seasonal contract, integrated into their final paycheck. The application process requires staff to submit a comprehensive form detailing estimated expenses, which is then thoroughly reviewed by the Operations Team for fair and transparent evaluation, ensuring targeted support where it's most impactful.

In 2024, the Staff Grant program received significant traction, with 70 staff members applying for a total of $75,828 in funds. Generous support from Camp Manito-wish YMCA's Alumni and friends enabled the fulfillment of a substantial portion of these requests, granting a total of $33,885. On average, recipients received approximately 45 percent of their initially requested funds, underscoring the camp's commitment to providing meaningful financial assistance.

Looking ahead to 2025, Manito-wish is steadfast in its commitment to recognize our staff and their hard work carrying out our mission and vision. This last year marked the third consecutive year of implementing wage increases, with the goal of doubling the starting wage for positions, on average. These efforts, in combination with the creative financial assistance of the Staff Grant Program, reflect Camp Manito-wish YMCA's ongoing dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for its valued staff.

This blog was written on behalf of ACA's Project Real Job, whose goal is to support camps in their efforts to recruit, hire, and retain staff. 

If you’d like to learn more about Camp Manito-wish YMCA’s Staff Grant Program, please reach out to Karen Christopherson, operations director, at [email protected].

Photo courtesy of of Camp Fire Camp El Tesoro in Granbury, TX