An ACA Perspective: Renting Computers for Camps

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Scott Rothschild, the director of professional development at the American Camp Association (ACA) of New York and New Jersey.

Camp administrators often turn to computer rental companies like Vernon Computer Source to get the very best technologies on a seasonal basis. Together, we delved a little deeper into the importance of the camps and the technology that they feature.

Erin: Tell me a little about your organization.

Scott: The American Camp Association, New York & New Jersey (ACA, NY & NJ) is a private, not-for-profit educational organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of summer camp experiences for children. The American Camp Association, New York & New Jersey represents one of the largest networks of camp professionals in the country with over 600 members representing over 400 affiliated camps. The programs and services of the American Camp Association, New York & New Jersey are aimed at responding to the particular needs of the region while at the same time, adhering to the ACA's national agenda.

Erin: Why are camps so important to children and their development?

Scott: Camp improves the lives of children a number of ways.  It enable them to grow to be caring, contributing and successful members of society.  Attributes such as independence, being healthy, leadership, social skills (making friends), adventurous, exploration, environmental awareness, positive values and decision-making are only some of the outcomes that result from a child taking part in the camp experience.

Erin: Is technology becoming a commonplace staple at camps?

Scott: I would say it has its part but is not a main piece of programming for all camps. We tend to see a shy-away from all technology at camps (iPods, Nintendo DS, etc) unless it has some educational piece to it.  For example, at our annual conference this year (The Tri-State CAMP Conference), we had a brand new exhibitor, VRQUEST, promoting education through computers and virtual reality.  Campers would design their own virtual environments while learning about computer programming and history about the environment they are creating - real cutting edge stuff for camps, and probably something that most campers do not get to experience during the school year.

Erin: Are there roles for computer rental companies within a camp environment?

Scott: Camps all need computers to run their offices.  The interesting piece is that camps (especially Resident/Sleep-a-Way Camps) run a winter and summer office - so there is a need to have computers at both locations.  Rentals come into play in both office environments, and can also be utilized in staff lounges and computer elective areas for the camps that have them.

Erin: You’ve worked with Vernon Computer Source before. Is there a reason you like us over our competitors?

Scott: It's definitely the service. We utilize Vernon for a number of things: Our Conference Registration areas (both attendee and exhibitor), our Attendee Hand Out Printing Stations, our E-Cafe (so attendees can check emails) and our Social Media Lounge. These are all really important pieces of the conference that Vernon makes smooth and successful year after year.