Silver Lake Earns Accreditation from American Camp Association
October 24, 2019
Silver Lake Conference Center, a United Church of Christ summer camp and retreat center, has earned accreditation
Silver Lake has earned accreditation from the American Camp Association.
from the American Camp Association (ACA).
During a visit in July 2019, Silver Lake complied with up to 290 industry-established health and safety standards, which are recognized by courts of law and government regulators as the standards of the camp industry.
“Silver Lake is committed to the health and safety of all of our participants, youth and adult, which is why we chose to partner with ACA,” said The Rev. Ryan Gackenheimer, Executive Director. “The accreditation process gives us an opportunity to have our program evaluated by an independent organization.”
To receive ACA accreditation, Silver Lake had to demonstrate sound practices in every aspect of camp management and operation, from program design to health and wellness, staff training, and human resource policies. The accreditation program is more than 60 years old and is continually evaluated and updated to reflect best practices in camps. ACA collaborates with experts from many fields, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other youth-serving agencies. Standards are revised based on research in public, legal, youth development, and camp arenas.
Silver Lake, operated by the Southern New England conferences of the United Church of Christ, has offered one-week overnight summer camp experiences to youth entering grades four through twelve since 1957. In addition to summer camp, Silver Lake hosts retreats for rental groups from September through May.
“Sending your child to summer camp is one of the greatest gifts you can give them,” Ryan said. “At Silver Lake, campers learn how to make friends, experience community living, and gain independence and leadership skills, all while exploring their relationship to God in an unplugged, outdoor setting. Our program inspires campers to discover their best selves, and to go out into the world prepared to make a positive difference. Our alumni go on to become teachers, social workers, nurses, and pastors, among other exciting careers.”
Registration for the 2020 summer camp program opens on Jan. 15, 2020, online at www.silverlakect.org. Groups can book rentals late August through May by calling 860-364-5526.
