Meet Kelly Rossebo, a seasoned camp professional with 30 years of experience leading Camp Eagle Ridge in Mellen, Wisconsin. Known for her connection-centric management style, Kelly's day involves overseeing various camp operations, engaging with campers, and addressing challenges like staffing shortages by emphasizing international hires and fostering local talent through leadership programs.
Name: Kelly Rossebo
Name of Camp: Camp Eagle Ridge
Location: Mellen, Wisconsin
Years in the Camp Industry: 30
One word that best describes your approach to camp management: Connection
Take us through a day at camp under your leadership. What does a typical day look like from start to finish?
I'm usually the first one awake in camp. I respond to any parent communication that comes in overnight, then head to flag raising and breakfast. I run the breakfast meal (my assistant directors run the other meals). After breakfast, I check in with our CITs and JCs, who are usually meeting right outside my office. Then, I start my work in the office. It could be scheduling, meeting with staff, or financial work. Every day is different. I usually take a break in the morning to go take pictures of kids in activities, which gives me a chance to walk around camp and see the interactions. My afternoons are similar, except that each day I run the camp store. I'm often asked why I don't delegate that task. My response is that it gives me an opportunity to interact with most campers every day. I also enjoy lifeguarding from time to time in the afternoons. Its one of my favorite activities with the kids. In the evening, I try to participate in most evening programs.
Describe the heart of your camp. What's the central area or the main hub where activities or gatherings take place?
I think our lodge, which contains our dining hall and kitchen is the heart of the camp. There's something about gathering around a table to share food that brings everyone together.
What are some essential tools, apps, or equipment you rely on to keep camp operations running smoothly?
We use CampMinder for our registration and communication with our families.
What’s a challenge you’ve recently faced at camp, and how are you working to overcome it?
In the past few years, it has been increasingly difficult to find great American staff. We have compensated by hiring great International Staff and continuing to develop great American staff through our CIT and JC programs.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received about managing a successful and enjoyable camp?
"With a great staff, you can run camp in a parking lot." (Jack Weiner, ACA)
What book, podcast, or resource do you think every camp director should read or listen to, and why?
Soundtracks by Jon Acuff I think it has really helped me help my staff and campers with overthinking and anxiety. It's also made me more self-aware.
How do you organize and prioritize camp tasks and responsibilities, especially during the busy summer season?
Just take it one step at a time so that you don't become overwhelmed.
If you could invent a new, wildly popular camp activity that perfectly captures the spirit of your camp, what would it be and why?
We've actually had activities that allowed campers to create a new game or sport and then play them. This perfectly captures our spirit. Our leadership camp is all about empowering young people to lead!
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