American Camp Association - Illinois

10/09/2026

We can't believe it's already October, but it is! If you're looking to get out of the office and spend time with other camp pros in the area, don't forget to register for this unique opportunity. We’ll spend time networking, enjoying lunch, and going on a tour of the host camp, Tamarak Day Camp!

Shout out to our ACA Illinois Board Member, Dave Thoensen, for collaborating with us on this event!

As always, we offer financial aid opportunities for anyone who is unable to pay, but you can also check out our sliding scale tickets at: https://acail.org/event-6851333.

10/08/2026

American Camp Association is closely following new guidance from the U.S. Department of State regarding age parameters within the BridgeUSA Camp Counselor program for the 2027 season.

We recognize that this guidance raises significant questions for camps, particularly those serving adults with disabilities and programs in which cultural exchange participants serve across multiple age groups.

ACA’s position is that BridgeUSA participants placed at camps serving adults with disabilities achieve the cultural exchange benefits and outcomes the program is intended to provide. We also believe that, if these age parameters are applied, implementation should be thoughtful and should not negatively impact the adults with disabilities served by these camps.

ACA is working closely with the BridgeUSA sponsor community and has requested a meeting with the U.S. Department of State to seek additional clarification and discuss these concerns directly.

At this time, we encourage camps not to make significant changes to their 2027 staffing or program models based solely on this guidance while that work continues.

We will continue to share updates with the camp community as more information becomes available.

Read the full update at https://www.acacamps.org/news/new-state-department-guidance-bridgeusa-camp-counselor-program

State Department shares new guidance on camp counselor age parameters for the BridgeUSA Camp Counselor program.

10/05/2026

We've got some new stickers for our fall events!

10/02/2026

Don't forget to register for our upcoming events; the FOMO is going to be real!

09/15/2026

Last month, our CEO Colette M Marquardt had the chance to spend the day at the Lincoln Park Zoo Camp!

Led by ACA Illinois Board Member, Shauna Guglielmo, this day camp helped campers grow in curiosity and community through their programs centered on conservation and animals.

09/14/2026

Have you had a chance to read about American Camp Association's 2026 Eleanor P. Eells Award Winners? You can learn more about the awardees, and the way in which they embodied the spirit of the award’s namesake, at https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/shaping-minds-future-leaders-2026-eleanor-p-eells-award-winners.

You can learn more about Eleanor Eells and her legacy in camping, and our Title XX funding, in this mini-pod by our friends at Go Camp Pro and The Day Camp Pod at https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/eleanor-eells.

09/09/2026

Drop your knowledge. Apply now. Speak at the Great Lakes Day Camp Forum 2027!
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09/08/2026

What better way to welcome all you camp pros back from the summer then a line-up of educational and collaborative events? You can check out our upcoming events at acail.org/calendar. We can't wait to see you there!

09/02/2026

APPLICATIONS FOR THE DIRECTOR'S SCHOOL ARE OPEN!

The camping industry continues to be impacted by economic shifts, trends, and evolving societal needs, and there's no better time than now to enhance your ability to serve your population responsibly, and safely, while growing your career expertise.

Learn more about the application process, course levels, and tips for building your case to attend at acail.org/TDS.

If you've got questions about what course level would best fit you, or the application process, you can attend our FREE info session on September 15, 2026.

09/01/2026

Lock in, level up. The Director's School is designed to develop the current and next generation of camp professionals. Learn more about what's required in the application, and get help in completing your application during this FREE info session on 9/15 at 1pm.

Details about the application, requirements, and what to expect during The Director's School at acail.org/TDS.