At Camp Coleman, we ask a lot of our staff, and they rise to the challenge every single day. From being their campers’ biggest cheerleaders, to comforting a camper who misses home, loudly leading unit cheers in the dining hall and Israeli dancing on Friday night, to being the last person to tuck them in at night and wish their campers sweet dreams – And somehow keeping their energy up through the heat, rain, and late nights.
As hard as our staff work for their campers, our year-round team, and our Staff Engagement Coordinator, Aaron Robinson, work hard to show our community’s appreciation.
Every night, after campers are tucked in and one staff member stays back in each bunk, the rest of the “off-duty” staff have the chance to participate in special staff-only evening programs. Some nights are more relaxing, like campfires, glow-yoga, or painting while music plays in the background. Other nights “bring the noise” like karaoke, splashball, or a themed dance party. But the staff’s favorite activities always include SNACKS! They loved Build Your Own charcuterie night, Sababa Sushi, two visits from the Chill Latte coffee truck for some yummy pick-me-ups, and even a few group runs to Waffle House where camp picked up the tab!
In addition to evening activities, the staff can also take advantage of day trips. This summer Aaron planned visits to the outlets in Dawsonville, trips to Helen for days off, and on the 4th of July we chartered a bus that took a large group of staff to Dahlonega to watch fireworks! Our international staff especially loved participating in this very American tradition!
This programming isn’t extra. It’s essential. It’s how we support our staff’s mental health, connection, and joy. It gives them space to unwind, laugh, bond, and create their own memories. They’re not just working at camp but shaping a sacred community. We understand that our staff is the secret sauce in the recipe for an amazing summer for our campers.
If you ever get the chance to see or interact with our staff, maybe around Atlanta on a day off, at camper pick-up or drop-off, or any other time, please make sure to thank them for all they do to create our Coleman Kehelliah Kadosha.
