Board Members & FAQs - Camp Carysbrook

Board Members & FAQ’s

Camp Carysbrook Alumnae Association FAQs

What is the purpose of the Camp Carysbrook Alumnae Association?

The Camp Carysbrook Alumnae Association is invested in building a bridge between past and present campers and staff.

Do I need to be a member to attend the 100th reunion?

No! We invite all alum 18+ to join the CCAA but it is not required. See also the benefits of membership below.

How do I sign up for the 100th Anniversary Alumnae Reunion?

If you plan to attend, please purchase a ticket on the camp website or by clicking this link. The cost of the event is $100/person if you are staying at camp. If you plan on staying offsite and attending the events daily, the cost is $75/person. Any proceeds will be donated to the CCAA scholarship fund.

Where does the money collected from memberships dues and fundraisers go?

100% of funds collected from membership dues, fundraisers, and the donations to the American Camp Association tax-exempt fund go to funding CCAA sponsored scholarships to send a camper to camp.

What is the purpose of the CCAA scholarship fund?

The CCAA Scholarship Fund exists to ensure that more girls have the opportunity to experience Carysbrook regardless of economic, racial, geographic, religious, ethnic or social background.

In line with the ACA, the mission statement represents the objective of the scholarship fund. By expanding the demographics of campers attending Camp Carysbrook these girls contribute to the holistic experience of camp. Whether this diversity comes from socioeconomic, racial, or cultural backgrounds, all campers will benefit from experiencing Camp Carysbrook with girls from all walks of life. Allowing campers to attend Carysbrook whose families may not have the means, or who may not have been exposed to the camp experience, extends the reach of the magic of camp with the help of those who have lived it. The CCAA is made up of women who were once campers or staff, and our dedication to the next generation of campers is essential in continuing the legacy of Camp Carysbrook.

What are the criteria for campers to receive scholarships?

Camper exhibits financial need.
Camper is self-motivated and wants to participate under the guidelines of Camp Carysbrook.
Camper is 6 to 16 years old.
Camper is ready to sleep away from home.
Camper has no history of behavioral problems that have resulted in removal from school or another camp.
Camper does not have missing credits that require her to be in summer school.
Camper’s family or guardian supports their attendance at Carysbrook.
The amount given toward the participation of any scholarship camper shall not exceed the amount of tuition and airfare minus the amount the family is able to pay and any amount gleaned from participant’s own fundraising efforts.

Can CCAA Members apply for the scholarship?

Alum may apply for the scholarship however cannot be a Board member participating in deliberations to prevent a conflict of interest.

What decades of camp are represented in the CCAA?

We have a wide-range of campers and staff from the 1960’s until just last summer in the CCAA! Camp Carysbrook 1923 til forever!

What are the benefits of membership?

As a member of the CCAA you will receive the monthly camp newsletter to stay up to date on camp news, reminders about upcoming events, discounts on events, opportunities for conversations from cultural questions to planning reunions, mailings, and a network of Carysbrook women from a range of decades at the ready.

Can I renew my lifetime dues?

Of course! Simply decide how you would like to renew, either through the tax-deductible ACA fund or by sending a check to the Camp Carysbrook Alumnae Association and send to 3500 Camp Carysbrook Rd. Riner, VA 24149. The CCAA and Camp Carysbrook track CCAA financials on a monthly basis.

How can I make a tax-deductible donation?

We have partnered with the American Camping Association to establish a means of raising tax-deductible funds for camper scholarships to Carysbrook. Check out the details under Donate in the Alumnae menu on the website!

How can I get involved?

Join to be a member and reach out to carysbrookalumnae@gmail.com to find out how you might contribute your time and talents and what the CCAA needs!

How much are dues?

Refer to Join the Alumnae Association for more info!

We are counting down the days until the 100th Anniversary Reunion hosted by Camp Carysbrook and the Camp Carysbrook Alumnae Association in …

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Camp Carysbrook Alumnae Association Board

The members of the Camp Carysbrook Alumnae Association nominate and elect board members and approve new positions and initiatives to carry out the mission of the organization.

Bethany Blair Champ, Co-President (1981-87 // Green)
Jen Mehler Rardin, Co-President (1981 – 91 // Brown)
Gardner Allen, Development (2004-9, 2013 // Green, Purple)

Please contact carysbrookalumnae@gmail.com for more info or if you are interested in offering your ideas, talents, time, or services to the Board.

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Memories and Reflections of Camp Carysbrook

“This summer that I’ve spent working at Camp Carysbrook has easily been the best summer of my life so far. It’s a truly incredible experience as you watch young girls be themselves in a place where no one judges, gossips or argues.”

Claire CarlinStaff, 2015

“Our daughter has gone to Carysbrook for 3 summers now and each year my wife and I come away more impressed with all that the camp has to offer. She has built great friendships that persist throughout the year while camp is out.”

Jeremy HellmanParent

“Carysbrook brings out the very best in my daughter. She feels loved, and she feels confident to take all kinds of risks.”

Ellen CarverParent

“This past summer I spent at Camp Carysbrook was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Deciding to apply for this job was the best decision I have ever made, I had the absolute best summer of my life. I can’t wait until next year.”

Lucy MullerStaff, 2014

“I just spent 8 weeks of my summer in the most magical place in the world. Nights are spent cuddled around a fire with campers and friends alike, and girls are challenged to grow and find themselves, while always being accepted for who they are. Here, life is simpler and makes more sense.”

Abby Worth-JonesStaff 2014

“I went to Carysbrook over 50 years ago! The Prestons ran the camp then. It was a transformative time for me, and I have loved the mountains ever since…what a magical time it was!”

Bridget Ritter

“Camp Carysbrook is a safe place to try new things without fear of failure. Every summer left me with a fortified sense of confidence.”

Frannie McCorkleFormer Camper and Counselor

“There is a place at Carysbrook for all girls – bold, shy, athletic, musical and those who can’t carry a tune. Camp Carysbrook encourages campers to believe and trust in themselves and discover their unique abilities.”

Toni M. Baughman

“Over the years as a parent of campers, it has become increasingly clear how the Carysbrook experience influences the empowerment of girls and the paths they choose.”

Jean SchlichterParent

“I met my most cherished friends at camp, had experiences that I would have never experienced outside of Carysbrook (riflery, archery, rappelling, caving….) and had an opportunity to be independent in a safe setting.”

Brooks Garris LivelyFormer Camper and Parent