Holiday Home Camp is a 26-acre facility located in Williams Bay, Wisconsin on the shores of Geneva Lake. The camp was established in 1887 by Chicago industrialists and remains one of the oldest accredited camps in the country still operating in its original location. In fact, the American Camp Association has recognized Holiday Home Camp as a pioneer in the field. Throughout a typical summer, Holiday Home Camp provides age-appropriate six and seven day sessions that serve over 500 youth (2nd – 8th grades) from economically disadvantaged communities.

Additionally, over 50 E.L.I.T.E. Teens (Excellent Leaders In Training Everyday) grades 9th through 12th participate yearly in our leadership program. This program meets monthly either at camp or in Chicago for events that each include three elements:

• Community Service
• Social Events
• Learning Experience (such as college visitation)

In order to participate in this program each teen must have attended Holiday Home Camp at least one time. Each teen must apply for membership and supply letters of reference. Our E.L.I.T.E. Teens program is a coveted program which we hope leads campers into becoming staff after their first year in college!

Respect, Responsibility, Relationships

Beginning summer 2011 a camp theme of Respect, Responsibility, Relationships is being integrated into every aspect of camp programming. Beginning with the first night at camp each cabin discusses the meaning of each word and the campers brainstorm how to exhibit each of the 3 Rs. Camper T-shirts display the camp logo along with this theme.

Respect
Campers are shown respect by camp staff and respect is expected in return.

Responsiblity
Campers are responsible to participate in camp activities and to let staff know if and when they may feel anxious about trying something new. Older campers are expected to look out for younger campers and returning campers are expected to welcome new campers and serve as positive role models.

Relationships
Positive relationships built amongst all campers, between all age groups andwith the camp staff are anticipated with our strong programming created for a safe, fun and challenging camp activities!

It is through this theme of Respect, Responsibility and Relationships that we will meet our mission:

To provide educational and recreational programming that helps disadvantaged youth develop the life skills necessary to become self-reliant, productive members of their families, schools and communities.