When I first came up with the idea for this camp, it was to be part of the programming of a pre-existing business. When one of the co-owners suggested I launch it on my own, and since my whole goal was to have a summer job, I started from scratch with no funds-- only an idea-- which I illustrated in brochures printed out on copy machines at a school I was working at part-time & in my dad's home office. I then went around the neighborhood and marketed the camp on-foot to parents and anyone who seemed interested. It was intimidating but also exciting to describe something which didn't yet exist. I would follow up with them by email and this is how I found my first customers, along with families in the neighborhood for whom my sister or I had babysat over the years.
Fast-forward to 2025, 20 (!!) summers into the camp's existence. While I have investigated the benefits of changing the type of business from Sole Proprietorship to an LLC or a non-profit, I have hesitated for a variety of reasons.
the more people involved in leadership decisions, the farther the camp could move away from its true purpose and goals
I like being the direct contact for parent questions, comments and concerns
any growth (as far as into other neighborhoods or cities/states) would require a willing 'partner' who was seeking to spear-head or facilitate a camp in their area
I have sought to develop myself as an artist and performer at each step, so that what I bring to the camp each year is representative of the real world. I have seen the benefit of incorporating local high schoolers and college students as counselors who can share their passions as well as set a positive example for campers. I like to incorporate artists from the community, yet I prefer referrals as I am very picky who I choose to be around the campers.
While on the surface, we give our focus to various topics and activities, the heart of camp (which hearkens back to my experiences at YMCA camps as a camper/counselor) is embracing who each individual camper is, allowing them opportunities to express themselves, lead, follow, and in general have a fun time in a structured environment. Learning to be respectful and be respected are life-long skills which never get old!
The responsibility of managing a business by myself has required various accommodations and 'sacrifices' (though I make them willingly). I have been denied full time job offers because they saw my camp as not something I could co-manage during summer months; I have had to ride the waves of the entertainment industry which often reflect the economy as a whole. But, at the end of the day, when June arrives, and I am back in Minneapolis gathered with the first week of campers, I feel beyond grateful at the opportunity I get to spend the summer with such bright, energetic, kind and caring children (and the counselor staff). I not so secretly think that kids are the classiest people out there. While they may not be as advanced and mature as adults, they more than make up for it with their ability to 'tell it like it is', show empathy for the less fortunate or suffering, and a zillion other reasons which you are all aware of as their parents! It is for this purpose that I seek to do right by you all-- because I have been entrusted with a great and important responsibility-- leading a summer camp.
Thus completes my first blog entry! Lucy Rahn / 01.03.2025
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