what's our big idea?
IDEA is an acronym for the pillars that frame our youth development work. Each pillar has indicators which are measured annually and used to create plans to improve our work.
Inclusion: We create a culture of belonging by which children feel accepted, appreciated and included for who they authentically are.
Diversity: We welcome children from across Kent and Ottawa counties representing a diversity of abilities, ethnicities, gender identities, gender expressions, races, sexual orientations, religions, beliefs and experiences.
Equity: We seek to serve children who are traditionally left out of recreational and educational programs. We identify and address any disparities in our program participation and outcomes to ensure all children are equitably served.
Access: While access based on income is our primary goal, we work to understand what may be preventing children from accessing our programs. From language to sexual orientation to abilities, we want to dismantle those barriers so we can be welcoming to all.
Inclusion: We create a culture of belonging by which children feel accepted, appreciated and included for who they authentically are.
Diversity: We welcome children from across Kent and Ottawa counties representing a diversity of abilities, ethnicities, gender identities, gender expressions, races, sexual orientations, religions, beliefs and experiences.
Equity: We seek to serve children who are traditionally left out of recreational and educational programs. We identify and address any disparities in our program participation and outcomes to ensure all children are equitably served.
Access: While access based on income is our primary goal, we work to understand what may be preventing children from accessing our programs. From language to sexual orientation to abilities, we want to dismantle those barriers so we can be welcoming to all.
interested in learning more?
Part of expanding our understanding and commitment to the Big IDEA is continually learning and growing as youth development professionals. Below is a sampling of what the national camp community is learning to ensure we are welcoming to all kids. We are grateful to the American Camping Association for sharing their research-based, equity focused information.
American Camping Association: Black Lives Matter
American Camping Association: Serving the Needs of Trans Campers
American Camping Association: LGBTQ Campers
American Camping Association: Social Justice and Camp
American Camping Association: Black Lives Matter
American Camping Association: Serving the Needs of Trans Campers
American Camping Association: LGBTQ Campers
American Camping Association: Social Justice and Camp