COMMUNITY & CONNECTION
At Chestnut Lake, community is at the heart of everything we do. Our “Bring Out Your Best” philosophy guides how we live, work, and connect — encouraging everyone to grow through teamwork, empathy, and genuine relationships. This section introduces our camp values and the spirit that makes the Chestnut Lake staff community so unique: a place where belonging, respect, and joy come together to create something truly special.
The following questions explore how we build connection, celebrate tradition, and create a camp experience that lasts far beyond the summer.
What does “Bring it Out” mean?
At Chestnut Lake, “Bring It Out” or “Bring Out Your Best” is more than a motto — it’s our way of life. It means helping others (and yourself) reach your full potential every day. It’s about showing up with a positive attitude, supporting your teammates, and treating everyone with kindness and respect. Whether you’re leading an activity, cheering on campers, or lending a hand behind the scenes, you’re part of creating a community where everyone can grow, belong, and shine.
How do staff help campers bring out their best?
Staff bring out the best in campers by creating a supportive, encouraging environment where everyone feels seen and valued. That means celebrating effort over perfection, modeling kindness and teamwork, and guiding campers through challenges with patience and positivity. Every interaction — whether it’s teaching a skill, sharing a laugh, or listening when someone needs support — helps campers discover confidence, character, and connection. That’s what “Bring Out Your Best” looks like in action.
What are Chestnut Lake’s core values?
Chestnut Lake’s core values — Confidence, Leadership, and Character — are the foundation of everything we do. They shape how we live, work, and grow together as a community. We bring these values to life every day through our Guiding Triad of Inspiration, Determination, and Acceptance:
- Inspiration encourages us to lift others up with energy, creativity, and positivity.
- Determination reminds us to work hard, stay focused, and persevere through challenges.
- Acceptance teaches us to welcome and celebrate everyone for who they are.
Together, these values help each of us Bring Out Our Best—because at Chestnut Lake, It’s Always Summer.
What makes the staff community at Chestnut Lake special?
The staff community at CLC is more than a team. It’s a family built on connection, trust, and shared purpose. You’ll work alongside people from across the country and around the world, forming friendships that often last long after summer ends. Through laughter, hard work, and shared experiences, you’ll discover that camp is more than just where you work: it’s where you belong.
How can I contribute to the Chestnut Lake community?
Be present, be kind, and lead with enthusiasm. The small things — a smile, a helping hand, or a word of encouragement — can make a big impact. When every staff member commits to lifting others up and living our shared values, the entire camp community thrives. Your attitude, effort, and care help make Chestnut Lake the special place it is.
What makes the Chestnut Lake experience last beyond the summer?
The lessons and friendships you build at Chestnut Lake don’t end when camp does. The confidence, empathy, and teamwork you develop stay with you long after you leave, reminding you that when you help others bring out their best, you bring out your own. That’s the heart of CLC’s spirit: It’s Always Summer—a feeling of connection, joy, and purpose that you carry with you wherever you go.
Can I connect with other members of the Chestnut Lake staff before the summer?
Yes! Eventually, many staff members will get to meet online during virtual staff meetings, or you might be introduced to your supervisor or other members of the team you’ll be working closely with. However, the most timely and reliable way to connect with others will be through the 2026 Chestnut Lake Staff group on Facebook, which we moderate. You can click here to find it, and once you’re approved, you’ll be able to see and share messages with other members of the 2026 staff.