Summer camps have sprouted up for most niches, ranging from gay grown-ups who want to be kids, to camp for kiddy spies. One of the more practical concepts is one specifically for children with LGBT parents.
Camp Highlight, a weeklong overnight camp for kids ages 8 to 15, is for children who have one or more LGBT parents. Founded by social workers and long-time camp counselors Chris Hudson and Jackie McGowan, it is in its inaugural year.
Such a camp is rare, Hudson said. The only other similar camp within 3000 miles of Camp Highlight, Camp Mountain Meadow, was recently cancelled for this year.
Hudson and McGowan have been vigilant about working with only pro-gay organizations while they set up the camp.
“As we searched for the best camp to rent, we spoke to many facilities directors,” Hudson said. “If we thought they were even slightly less than completely enthusiastic when we told them that we served the LGBTQ community, we passed. We chose South Mountain YMCA because their team was as excited about Camp Highlight as we were and have simply incredible facilities. We have opted to use gay-friendly businesses for all of our needs.”
As for curriculum, campers can expect normal outdoor camp activities like fires, s’mores, and sports, plus indoor fun like crafts and music, all with an accepting and higher-learning twist.
“We foster acceptance for everyone as they are, where they are from and who their families are,” Hudson said. “We provide a recreational program with an underlying curriculum that focuses on universal values such as responsibility, respect and cooperation.”
Their biggest challenge as a new camp is getting the word out. Camp Highlight marched with COLAGE this year in the New York City Pride parade and several others in the area.
“We have reached out to churches/synagogues, community centers, LGBT groups and schools from Connecticut to Washington DC,” McGowan said. “At this time, we still have space available and want to get the word out so as many families as possible have the option to send their children to Camp Highlight.”
“Camp has been an amazing experience for both us since we were campers,” said Hudson and McGowan. “It’s a place to learn independence and forge amazing friendships. We are most excited to bring this experience to campers in this community which means so much to both of us.
Parents can download the registration form or get more information online. Parents can also sign up by calling (646) 535-2267 and registering their child over the phone. Cost is $650, with a discount for additional siblings.
