Camp Inclusion

Inclusion at Hale Summer Camps

We strive to create diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments that foster a culture of respect for all people. We are dedicated to creating experiences that invite campers and staff members to be themselves and connect with others.

Our camps prohibit discrimination against, or harassment of, any person in our programs based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender, gender expression, gender identity, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family medical history, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, age, sexual orientation, citizenship, status as a protected veteran or service in the uniformed services. 

We do not require caregivers to disclose any of this information regarding their campers; if they choose to, confidentiality is maintained whenever possible, and information is only shared with camp staff members so they may more fully support campers. Staff members do not discuss this information in any situation where it is not required, pertinent, or appropriate to protect a camper’s physical and emotional safety.

Our camps provide opportunities for people to work and play together in outdoor, nature-based communities. We provide training to staff members before and during the summer to prevent discrimination, bullying, and harassment. And we acknowledge that while our diversity can sometimes present challenges, those challenges can build the strength, confidence, and character we hope to see in ourselves and each other.

To that end, we commit to the healthy growth and development of our entire camp community, and work to ensure our camps positively impact each camper and staff member.

2025 Camp Expectations

We’re excited to have your camper join us this summer! Every camper is entitled to a respectful, affirming camp experience. Campers are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that ensures a safe environment for everyone and to assume responsibility for their actions. Please review the camp expectations and discuss them with your camper before they arrive at camp. We also hope you will save this sheet and remind your camper of these expectations as often as possible.

Behavior Guidelines

1. Campers listen and follow directions given by staff. 

2. Campers respect the personal space of others by keeping their hands and feet to themselves.

3. Campers ask permission to leave their group and never go anywhere alone.

4. Campers arrive at their activities ready to learn.

5. Campers communicate respectfully with adults and fellow campers. Swearing, teasing, and offensive comments will not be tolerated at Hale.

6. Campers are always on time.

7. At camp, nothing flies through the air.

Caregivers & Supporters can also make sure their camper is successful by making sure that:

• Campers do not bring cell phones, electronic devices, or money to camp. There is nothing to buy, limited phone signal, and nowhere to charge electronics.

• Campers will participate in scheduled activities with their group.

• Campers will respect themselves, other campers, the environment, facilities, and staff.

If you feel that your camper may struggle with any of these expectations or rules, please contact us, so we can set up an appropriate behavior plan while your camper is in our care. A behavior warning is given when a camper cannot meet one of the above expectations. The camp director will contact parents should disciplinary issues occur. We work with struggling campers and their families whenever possible to modify or manage problematic behavior.

 Multiple behavior warnings may result in your camper being unable to return to camp.

The 3 Rs

On the first day of camp we ask our campers to make group contracts. During this process, they learn how to treat others, how they would want to be treated, and how they ought to treat nature. We focus on these topics all the time at Hale, and they can be easily remembered as “The 3 Rs”: 

• Respect Others 

• Respect Ourselves 

• Respect Nature 

Discipline Policy

The first time a camper misbehaves, and provided the behavior does not directly affect another camper, corrective action is a private discussion between the counselor(s) and the camper. This information is relayed to a camp lead so they can take note of it. If inappropriate behavior occurs again, the camp lead will have a conversation with the camper. If the camper continues to exhibit inappropriate behavior, one of the camp directors will meet with the camper and contact their parent or guardian. If a physical incident occurs (a camper hits, pushes, bullies, or exhibits any form of violence toward another camper), or if a camper does something that endangers their own safety or the safety of others (such as running away from the group), then the camper is referred to a director and the camper’s parent or guardian is immediately notified. Hale Day Camp prohibits corporal punishment, and no camper shall be subjected to cruelty, humiliation, or verbal abuse. Campers shall not be denied food or shelter as a form of punishment or be punished for soiling, wetting, or toilet use. Discipline shall be consistent and appropriate, given the circumstances.

Suspension: If a camper is asked to “take a day off,” they may not return to camp until their parent or guardian meets with the camp director. Behaviors that warrant suspension include: 

• Bullying

• Continually disobeying a counselor’s direction

• Leaving the group

• Endangering or purposefully hurting another camper

• Stealing or destroying property

• Engaging in inappropriate or illegal behavior

• Bringing weapons to camp

No refunds will be offered for days missed.

Dismissal: The camp directors reserve the right to dismiss any camper when their behavior interferes with the rights and safety of others or with the smooth functioning of a group or activity. No refunds will be offered for days missed. 

Don’t worry! We like to celebrate too! 

We have high expectations for our campers, but we also believe that great behavior should be rewarded and have a variety of ways to highlight awesome behavior at camp! Ask your camper how they were celebrated at camp when they come home; they will be excited to share this with you.