Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Our campers say that Wa-Klo is where they can truly be themselves.
We have made large, intentional steps to ensure that everyone in our community feels like they belong. At the start of each session, campers work together in their cabins to write community agreements that serve as the foundation for the restorative practices we use at camp. These community agreements affirm that each camper has a voice in how their cabin functions. The cabin counselors support these agreements and refer to them to address any challenges in the cabin and to bolster connections between the campers. Although these connections are started well before camp even begins; all new campers are connected with a returning camper so they have the opportunity to make a friend at camp before the summer begins.
Our campers and staff have opportunities to share their cultures, backgrounds, and personal stories through special events like Reflections, Talent Shows, and Celebrations 2.0 (a day where we organize clinics and activities around celebrating heritage and culture). Celebrating each individual shows that being a part of the Wa-Klo family isn’t about fitting in; it’s about being embraced for who you are and having a sense of belonging.
For the areas we can improve, we work with a diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) consultant to evaluate our practices and create training for our staff. We empower our counselors to support our LGBTQ+ and BIPOC community members through specific training on how to proactively create an inclusive community in their bunks and the activities they teach.
Inclusion
Camp Wa-Klo is a welcoming and inclusive community. Wa-Klo does not discriminate based on age, race, ethnicity, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, financial means, or gender expression/identity.
Camp Wa-Klo may not be suitable for campers of all abilities. We are located on a large, wooded campus and have a 1:4 counselor to camper ratio. Please reach out to our director, Tammy, to learn more about disability inclusion at Camp Wa-Klo.
Gender Expression/Identity Policy
All campers/staff who identify as female can attend or work at Camp Wa-Klo. Once a camper is a part of the Wa-Klo family, they can continue attending Wa-Klo regardless of their gender identity. Campers and staff will use our single person bathrooms located in every building. A person’s gender identity is protected the same way health information is and will be respected as such. Campers and staff will be referred to by the name and pronoun that they request.
Consideration and Respect
Camp Wa-Klo expects respectful behavior with all members of the camp community, to the physical property, and to the beautiful surroundings. There is no tolerance for disrespectful, inappropriate language, harassment, or bullying. Any disrespectful behavior will be promptly addressed through our restorative justice framework.
