We welcome you to the Summer 365 family, we’re mighty glad you’re here! Meet our newest Campbassador, Amy! Campbassadors are our version of brand ambassadors – they are our #1 fans, cheer squad, and fellow camp-obsessed former campers who want to spread the summer love! And, most importantly, they are dedicated to joining in our mission of giving the gift of summer camp to children.
We are so excited to introduce you to Amy Meltzer and give you a peek into her camp experience and passion for sleepaway camp. She is a true camp lifer and, as you’ll see, it’s no surprise her favorite camp expression is “live 10 for 2.”
Where did you go to camp?
I went to Camp Kennybrook from 1984 to 1992. I was a camper, a waitress, a Counselor Assistant and Counselor.
What are you currently doing?
I am a second grade teacher in New City, New York. During the summers I work as a Division Leader at a coed sleepaway camp.
I spent most of my childhood at sleepaway camp. Now as an adult I realize even more the impact the camp experience has on so many people. This is why I am very excited to be a Summer 365 Campbassador. This thrilling new opportunity will allow me to work with an incredible company and service and use my knowledge and passion of the camp world to help my friends, and their friends and families, navigate the complex maze of finding the right camp for their children.
How has camp influenced what you do/your career path?
I have always loved working with children, watching them learn and grow but especially smile. There is nothing like making a difference in the life a child. I also loved the idea that I could still GO TO CAMP if I worked in a school because my summers would be free!
What are your top three essentials that you packed in your trunk?
Aussie scrunch spray, jacks, and soccer cleats
What are three words to describe your camp experience?
Unforgettable, Inspirational, Rewarding
Who was someone at camp that you looked up to?
Two sisters- Lisa Tenenbaum and Karen Tenenbaum. I still am in touch with them through Facebook!
Why do you think it is important to go to camp?
It is important to go to camp because there is no place in the world you can be as independent, create such intense friendships or memories at such a young age.
What is your favorite/most epic camp memory?
When I was in Bunk J at in 1987, the boys raided our bunk. Raids were not allowed at Kennybrook. One of the boys decided to wear cleats and made a ton of noise across the porch. The night watchman heard the noise and we got caught. We got docked, we sat on our porch and watched everyone hanging out at the canteen and our counselors brought us back pizza and Dunkin Donuts when they got in from the night.
How has camp affected your adult life? Is there something you learned there that you still do today?
Camp taught me about the raw and true meaning of friendship. It made me realize there is no greater place to create bonds because you grow up with your camp friends which is different from college. You live without the distractions of real life. You deal with issues as they happen and you move on. You learn to communicate and live with others. You learn from others and can be yourself without judgement.
Words of wisdom for current and future campers?
Do not take the time for granted, don’t sweat the small stuff when you are at camp, the good will always outweigh the bad… if there is ever any bad.
Camp nickname?
Bonn Bonn because my maiden name was Bonn. There was even a song “Amy Bonn Amy Bonn Amy Bonn” created by a counselor because it was so catchy to say so it ended up being sung all over camp for years.
Favorite camp tradition?
Singing the Camp Alma Mater every night
Favorite canteen candy?
Twix
Favorite camp cheer?
“We’re saving our voices for sing!”
What was your favorite camp activity?
Arts & Crafts or soccer
If you had to get something from camp tattooed on you what would it be?
12701 – camp zipcode
What were the biggest trends/must have items when you went to camp?
EG socks, scrunchies, Aussie scrunch spray, Z Cavaricchis, Keds, Champion sweatshirts, Archie comics, easy cheese, Ritz crackers, Lipton cup of soup noodle, hot chocolate packets, Timberland boots folder over at the top to wear with EG socks
