Category: Support Camp

We are excited to announce the Jocelyn B. Tetel Campership, which provides the Coniston Experience to a deserving child so they may make new friends and participate in the Coniston program that gave Jocelyn so much joy.

Jocelyn grew up in North Carolina, attended Coniston from 1971 through 1979, and is the Vice President of Advancement for the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles. Her independence, leadership, and social skills were shaped through the nine summers on the lake. Her memories of Camp often include mental snapshots of waterskiing and sailing, shooting a bow and arrow and sleeping out under the stars—and even teaching synchronized swimming as a staff member. But most importantly she met one of her dearest friends to this day—and though they have never lived in the same city—their friendship sustains the distance.

If this past year has taught us anything, it is a deep understanding that learning to connect with others is the very lesson that kids need most at Camp.

She is so pleased that the essence of the Camp remains the same and it is still offering these same experiences to young people today. The best way she can show her appreciation for Coniston is to give a campership in perpetuity—meaning the campership follows the camper through their entire Camp journey to ensure long-term development then transfers to a new camper.

From 2015 to 2019, we doubled full camperships to 165. We believe having a Coniston filled with campers from all walks of life is stronger for every child.

Many things are taken into consideration when awarding a full Coniston Campership to a child. Initially, children and their families submit an application, the previous tax year forms, and are assessed through professionals such as school counselors and nurses. Next, the family’s income is screened using the federal free and reduced lunch income eligibility guidelines. Then the family’s income is multiplied by three—making it more equitable. Then our registrar and CEO discuss each application to determine camperships.

Additionally, we offer campership opportunities for families who may have a difficult story to share that may not be reflected in their finances. Such as families in cancer treatments, families who have suffered a loss such as a house fire, or even children who are being raised by grandparents.