Empowering Girls Through Camp and Community
Brownie • Camp Alice Chester Director • Day Camp Leader • Advocate for Girl-Led Growth
“Girls can truly do anything—whether it’s camp staff, counselors, or campers. I saw it every day.”
Andrea’s Girl Scout journey began as a Brownie, with fond memories of troop camping, even if she didn’t attend summer camp herself. One treasured photo shows her as a child outside the Camp Alice Chester Welcome Center, which would later become her office.
Her path to leadership began as a day camp counselor, where she saw firsthand how outdoor experiences helped girls build confidence. That spark led her to apply for the full-time director role at Camp Alice Chester, where she served for over a decade.
Building Confidence, One Canoe at a Time
As director, Andrea witnessed the power of camp to transform girls. From nervous first nights to triumphant Friday farewells, she saw campers grow in resilience and self-belief. Whether it was carrying a canoe, climbing a rock wall, or leading a skit, girls discovered their strength surrounded by supportive peers and female role models.
She also watched teen counselors blossom. They learned presentation skills, advocacy, and leadership as CITs, PAs, and staff. “They became role models for younger Girl Scouts,” Andrea recalls.
Traditions That Last a Lifetime
Andrea’s favorite memories include CIT serenades, Scouts’ Own ceremonies, and singing at the iconic Singing Steps. She fondly remembers creative skits, bean bag lawn chairs inspired by “Survivor,” and the dedication of staff who stayed up late to perfect programming.
One unforgettable moment was meeting Marion Chester Read, daughter of Camp Alice Chester’s namesake. “She was a pilot, a mountain climber—she did things before women ever did,” Andrea said. “We can’t celebrate Alice Chester without celebrating her daughter.”
A Legacy That Continues
After her tenure as camp director, Andrea transitioned to overseeing volunteer-led day camps, inspired by the passion of directors who built community while working full-time jobs. She remains connected to camp alum through annual workdays, where bonds forged in late-night storms and shared laughter continue to thrive.
Andrea believes camp offers girls a fresh start, a place to be their true selves, make new friends, and try things they might never experience elsewhere. Her story is a testament to the enduring power of Girl Scout camp to shape confident, compassionate leaders.
References:
“Friendship, Growth, and Empowerment: Velma’s 16 Years of Unforgettable Memories and Lessons.” Girl Scouts of the USA, 2024, http://www.gswise.org/en/members/for-girl-scouts/camp-and-outdoors/100_years_of_camp/friendship-growth-empowerment.html. Accessed 6 July 2025.
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