Maine Youth Camping Association
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 MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Maine Youth Camping Association (MYCA) is to strengthen and expand the educational, environmental and recreational opportunities provided by all organized Youth Camps in Maine by fostering the exchange of information and ideas; interpreting and coordinating activities that will enhance cooperation between the organized youth camping movement and various private, non‑profit, public, and governmental interests and agencies; and identifying and creating research, programs, projects and services that will improve the quality and safety of youth experiences in Maine's organized camps.

MYCA is a membership organization of over 100 Maine summer camps & adventure programs.  It is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, governed by an elected Board of Directors.  

MYCA'S CURRENT OBJECTIVES

PUBLIC RELATIONS - PROMOTION - COMMUNICATIONS

Enhance the public's understanding of Maine camps and the values of camping through:
 

  • Annual directory of Maine summer camps  (print & web versions).2008 Directory cover
  • Website for public access to Maine camps.
  • Newsletters, press releases and participation in forums and conferences.
  • List of camp facilities available off-season for continuing education and extended use of beautiful Maine locations.
  • Research to illustrate camp's, educational, economic, social and child development value.
  • Maintain a broad based membership of camps, camp leaders, business supporters, and individuals from diverse backgrounds and interests.
  • Provide referrals and assistance to the public on locating camps, starting camps and other camp related  topics.

ADVOCACY & PUBLIC POLICYCampersInColdWater

 

  • Proactively provide education, advocacy, collaboration and action on issues, regulations and legislation that may affect the camping industry, campers or the publics access to quality camping services. Such issues include: child safety, safe drinking water, economic development, employment regulations, minimum wage, international student exchange programs, wastewater/trash disposal, preservation of the environment, taxation, and insurance (liability, health and workers' compensation).

ORGANIZATION MANAGEMENT & MEMBERSHIP
 

  • Develop & review a strategic plan for MYCA, set priorities for staff and committees.
  • Develop a strong membership base for needed cash flow and program support.  
  • Provide effective financial management.
  • Conduct membership development and support services.
  • Maintain a balance between cost effective professional support and productive volunteer activity.
  • Provide Group Buying Service for camps to support businesses and gain discount.
  • Avoid duplication of services with the American Camping Association.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & ETHICS

Provide educational opportunities for directors, staff and campers to further professionalism, to improve the quality and safety of camps, to encourage diversity and environmentally sound practices, to increase effectiveness of business management.  This program consists of:IdentifyingPlants

  • A program of fellowship meetings, informational sessions and training workshops.

  • Annual training opportunities for Junior Maine Guide, and Staff.

  • Periodic revision of code of ethics and legal review of process.

  • Generate an atmosphere of professional support and resources for our membership.

  • Voluntary crisis support among member directors.

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