The Stomping Ground Tea - Camper Magazine!
Hometown has brought so many fun weeklong projects, and this one can be added to the list of the greats! Read below some highlights from the magazine, and some imagery done by our campers! The Stomping Ground Tea… a perfect read for any occasion! - Counselor Maggie
Painting garden pots! by Chloe Migliacci
Step 1: All you have to do is order a blank garden pot and acrylic paint (seeds if you want to put plants in later)
Step 2: Then all you have to do is come up with an idea and paint! Let it dry and then use your creation. These are some pots people painted
Step 3: Take your seeds and dirt and all the gardening materials. Dig a hole. Put the seeds in the hole and cover it. Water it as said on the plant package and wait for it to grow!
An Interview with our founders! By Sara Marion
Hello, my name is Sarah Marion and I was privileged to interview Laura and Jack, founders and directors of Camp Stomping Ground. During my call with them, I noticed the hard work and dedication they had for the camp and others. Thank you so much Laura and Jack for your time and flexibility!
What made you start camp Stomping Ground?
Camp Stomping Ground was started on partnering, deciding, trust, and of course campers. It was a safe haven and community for kids to be creative and be kids. It was a created space to be trusted. Stomping Ground, was the perfect image of what the world could be if we just believed.
What does Radical Empathy mean to you?
Radical empathy means taking a very intentional moment and trying to see the world from someone else’s eyes. Radical empathy means understanding the world from someone else’s eyes. It's more different, from empathy itself. It requires working hard and acting with the best heart.
Why is Radical Empathy SG’s Slogan?
Radical Empathy, became SG’s slogan, through Laura. Parents and campers started to love it and eventually it became our slogan. “It was accidentally discovered,” Jack said.
What did you do for work before starting Stomping Ground?
Before starting Stomping Ground, Jack worked for contractors, interviewed international counselors, and did drawing videos with Laura. Laura was a substitute teacher, taught at Montessori schools and worked with kids and families with autism.
What does a day to day work look like for you?
It is different depending on the time of the year. For the 10 months of off camp season, they are fundraising, marketing camp, planning, and hiring staff. As of now, they are also renovating the Saratoga property.
What makes your job different from other jobs you had in the past?
Running SG, and setting my own schedule. There’s less everyday detail, setting visions and lots of responsibility/choices. “Being the boss is good and bad,” says Laura.
What do you take away from your job?
Jack is just grateful because if he didn’t have this job he’d be in some form of business. As for Laura, Jack thinks she’d do something with kids (social worker, teacher, etc.). They both agree camp gave them the awesome best friends they’ve met.
Stomping Ground Astrology 101 For Counselors by Mary
Aries - (March 21 - April 19)
Ruling Planet: Mars
Natural born leader
Fearless
Exciting and charming
Ambitious, driven, big dreamers
Beacon of Aries-hood: GEORGE
Taurus - (April 20 - May 20)
Ruling Planet: Venus
Practical, reliable
Patient until they’re not
Stubborn and determined
Kind hearted
Loyal and can be leaned on for support
Tauri in the house: Nicole, Mary, & Nana!
Gemini - (May 21 - June 20)
Ruling Planet: Mercury
Information gatherers
Quick witted and smart
Love to be the center of attention/life of the party
Loves deeply
Can be moody with quickly changing opinions
Twin personalities? More like THIS dynamic duo representing!: Tursh & Chrince
Cancer - (June 21 - July 22)
Ruling Planet: Da Moon
Home loving and strong willed
Feels emotions very deeply
Sensitive and nostalgic
Loves security and finding inner comfort
Children of the moon: King & Nigel!