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Building Community Partnerships: How Day Camps Can Connect Locally

What if your day camp was known not just as a program, but as a true community partner? In this episode of The Day Camp Pod , guests Marissa Allaben, Ali Rothenberg and Heath Levine join the hosts to discuss how camps can build authentic, local connections that really matter. From partnering with schools and municipalities to showing up at community events and using street teams creatively, this conversation is packed with practical, boots-on-the-ground ideas. The guests share real examples of what’s worked, what takes time and why consistency is key to earning trust. You’ll also hear how social media and in-person outreach can work together to amplify your camp’s presence. If you want your camp to be seen as a giver, not a taker, this episode offers clear inspiration and actionable next steps.

00:00 Introduction: Are You a Giver or a Taker?

04:12 Rolling River Camp's History and Legacy

08:41 Community Engagement and Marketing Strategies

14:06 Building Genuine Relationships in the Community

14:41 Engaging with Schools and Local Organizations

17:11 The Power of Partnerships and Consistency

27:01 The Role of Street Teams in Community Outreach

29:01 Engaging the Community with a Street Team

31:39 The Power of Mascots in Camp Marketing

35:40 Building Relationships Beyond the Screen

41:51 Leveraging Social Media for Camp Promotion

51:36 Holiday Camps: A Gateway to Summer Enrollment

54:04 Final Thoughts and Best Practices

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Episode Links:

Rolling River Camp Connectors

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Your Hosts:

• Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day Camp
• Sam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park District
• Jordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin Hood

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Your Guests:

• Marissa Allaben, Director - Rolling River Day Camp
• Ali Rothenberg, Associate Director - Rolling River Day Camp
• Heath Levine, Director - Shibley Day Camp