08/25/2026
A Final Summer At Camp Melita Island
A letter from Ashley Jerome, 2026 Camp Director
My fifth and final summer at Camp Melita Island has come to an end, and I cannot say it any more clearly: I am so proud of the 2026 Melita Island staff.
When you bring together people from across the country and beyond, you never know how things will click. This summer started with several days of rain, teaching us an important lesson from the beginning: be flexible. As the summer progressed, our staff continued to adapt, working hard to provide the best program possible and create memories that will last a lifetime. Melita Island is a home away from home for our staff, and we wanted it to feel that way for our campers, too.
This summer, Camp Melita Island completed five weeks of Scouts BSA long-term summer camp, welcoming troops from Montana, Colorado, Washington, California, Arizona, Idaho, Oregon, and North Dakota. Our staff came from 15 states and Mexico, bringing a truly national—and international—spirit to the island. Our food service team was also top-tier, thanks to our partners at Upper Crust Food Services.
We focused on expanding open program opportunities while creating a safe and fun environment for everyone. We fine-tuned our offerings to provide a balance of water- and land-based activities. But the real gem of the Melita Island staff is their “why” – their common purpose. Every staff member strives to give back, make a difference, and create a ripple effect. I can proudly say that this summer, they did just that.
As my time at Melita comes to an end, I am proud of the culture this staff has built. My 14 years on camp staff have taught me that camp is a safe place to fail, learn, and become better. Our staff worked hard all summer to spread the spirit of Scouting, and they left Melita Island better because of their efforts.
I know this 64-acre island on Flathead Lake will always hold a special place in my heart. I am grateful for every camper, leader, staff member, challenge, laugh, long day, and unforgettable memory. Most of all, I am grateful to have played a small part in something that has made such a difference in so many lives.
It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as Camp Director at Camp Melita Island.
Yours in Scouting,
Ashley Jerome
2026 Camp Melita Island Camp Director
