From Camper to Counselor

Dylan Boyer’s camp journey began at the Y when he was just six years old, eagerly anticipating his first summer at Camp Sargent and Sports Camp. Having been enrolled in the EEC since the age of three alongside his twin brother, he had spent years counting down the days until he could finally experience the adventures of camp firsthand. With both parents deeply involved in running camps throughout their careers, Dylan had always recognized the fun and lifelong benefits of the program.

From the very beginning, he fell in love with spending his summers outdoors. He fondly recalls the counselors who made a lasting impact on him over the years, shaping his camp experience in meaningful ways. For Dylan, the best part of camp was the freedom it offered—“the space to use energy to spark creativity. It was very different from school.” His favorite activities included Camp Sargent, where he could immerse himself in nature, and the former teen camp, Quest. He credits great counselors for making these experiences unforgettable, emphasizing that “a counselor can make or break a camper’s experience.”

The lessons and skills Dylan gained from camp have had a lasting effect on his life. Last summer, he joined the staff at Camp Sargent, eager to give back to a program that had given him so much. As a counselor, he found joy in engaging with youth from his community, drawing upon his own memories of the impactful mentors he once had. Now a freshman at Plymouth State University, Dylan credits his time as a camp counselor with helping him choose his major. Unsure of what path to take heading into college, his summer spent working outdoors and mentoring children solidified his passion—leading him to pursue a degree in Adventure Education. With his first year of college nearing its end, he’s already looking forward to returning to camp. “I love the kids,” he shared. “Camp gets better over time as you continue to build connections with the campers.”

For Dylan, those connections have been the heart of his camp experience. Over the years, he and his twin brother formed a close friendship with another camper from outside their community—a bond that remains strong today. His time on staff last summer also introduced him to a group of fellow counselors who shared his love for the outdoors. Even beyond camp, they continue to get together for activities like hiking and camping.

“I wanted to be a counselor because of my own positive memories,” Dylan reflected. “But also for the experience, for being outside. Most of all, I wanted to be a good role model—just like the ones who impacted my life.”

For Dylan Boyer, camp was more than just a summer activity. It shaped his life’s path. From his early days at Camp Sargent to becoming a counselor, the friendships, mentorship, and outdoor adventures made a lasting impact.

Your support of Send A Kid to Camp makes a difference. By donating, you give a child the chance to experience the same joy, growth, and connection. Your contribution provides a camper with days filled with adventure, creativity, and the freedom to explore the outdoors. It means making new friends, learning from caring mentors, and gaining confidence through exciting challenges. Camp is a place where kids can discover who they are and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Donate today and give a child the opportunity to explore, learn, and grow through the magic of camp!