Michael holds a BA in Human Services from Springfield College (MA), has worked in camping in the YMCA for the past 28 years, and has run small city camps all the way up to large outdoor day camps. He has a consulting business that focuses on youth development with an expertise in camping and before/ after school programs.
A native of New Milford, CT Michael has lived in Williamsville, NY since July 2016. He is married and has a 16 year old son. “I am a camp guy through and through,” he said. “I have been working with children my entire life. I believe it is important when working with children that you have a focus.
I have three areas I like to focus on when working with children.
1. Belonging: I believe that children need to create a sense of belonging in their community. Every child this summer should say “this is MY CAMP”. This will allow them to own their actions and be committed to creating a better world around them
. 2. Achievement – Children need to have a sense of real achievement in their lives. Not the “everybody gets a trophy” philosophy but a true sense of being a success. We need to redefine success for them. Allowing them to set their own goals and helping them to achieve them.
3. Relationships – I believe that children need to work on building relationships. Not just with other campers but with the staff. If we can put a positive role model in the life of every child we will be better off,” he said. “Feel free to come on by the Camp Office in the Benderson JCC and say hi!”