Welcome Melanie Donnelly to the Camp Opportunity Team
We’re overjoyed to welcome Melanie Donnelly to the Camp Opportunity team as our new Camp Director.
Melanie brings a wealth of experience in out-of-school-time and creative education, having served as an after-school program coordinator, summer theater camp director, and public school teaching artist.
Her passion for learning, creativity, and love for all things camp shine through in everything she does, and we’re so excited to have her as part of our Camp family. Get to know Melanie and discover what inspired her to join Camp Opportunity below!
What drew you to Camp Opportunity and its mission?
“On an individual level, I was drawn to the opportunities that camp could provide for me - to grow my leadership skills, get to know a new community, challenge myself, and build a new, exciting program. But the more I've learned about camp, the more I'm excited by the opportunity it provides for every single camper, counselor and human involved - to be a part of an unforgettably fun week, make a meaningful difference, and let kids be kids in the purest summery way.”
What is your vision for Camp Opportunity moving forward?
”I hope Camp Opportunity can be a space that provides fun and safe programming informed by our social and emotional curriculum and the particular emotional needs of our campers. I would love for it to be a place where campers feel structured ownership over their daily schedule, where we can innovate exciting camper-led activities, and where we create new traditions that stick with campers and counselors for a lifetime. I am also really excited for all the things I don't even know I can hope for yet, as I get to know the staff, space, and community we serve!”
What past experiences prepared you for leading a camp like ours?
“I have extensive experience in out-of-school-time and creative education spaces as an after-school program coordinator, director of summer theater camps, and public school teaching artist. I have worked with a diverse array of student populations, including students experiencing homelessness and food insecurity in Boston Public Schools, and I've directly observed how hands-on creative and athletic activities can be SO transformative for students on a social-emotional level! I grew up from Pre-K through 12th grade in Montessori schools, and I bring that strong emphasis on community, independence, and hands-on learning to my leadership and programming philosophies. I am also a performer and I see running a week of camp as a bit like putting on a show - nailing down all the details, letting everyone's different talents shine through, and improvising when things don't go according to plan!”
What do you hope campers and counselors take away from their time at camp?
“Positive core memories, a space where they feel safe and welcome, the planted seeds of new tools for emotional regulation, at least 2 friendship bracelets, and a swimsuit tan from too much fun in the pool!”
Do you have a favorite camp memory or tradition of your own?
“Singing "Lean on Me" around a campfire with my middle school classmates is a special memory for me, and I don't think there's a better way to feel in community with a group! The sound of singing and the warmth and light of the fire create a safe, warm bubble against the dark and cold all around.”
There is sure to be a lot of new core memories made this year at camp with Melanie on our team. Welcome, Melanie!