Donnie Keele

Donnie Keele is a communicator and life coach who specializes in helping young adults discover and share what makes them unique and gives them purpose. Equipped with two degrees (one in mass communication and the other in campus chaplaincy), several certifications, and 15+ years of experience split between summer camp administration and university student affairs, he now produces digital media content focused on helping camp professionals make sense of complex and shifting demands so they can continue growing as exceptional leaders who provide transformational experiences for campers and staff alike.

Building Resilient Camp Leadership for Next Season

When you focus on building resilient camp leadership, you’re giving your team the confidence and skills to handle anything that comes their way next summer. Why This Season Felt Different Camp leadership in 2025 came with a unique set of pressures. Parent expectations increased, and staffing shortages haven’t magically disappeared. Add in the mental load […]

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Designing a Camp Registration Process Parents Actually Like 

Camp registration used to mean paper forms, fax machines (remember those?), and endless back-and-forth with parents. But a quarter into the 21st century, expectations have changed. Families order groceries with a tap and sign school forms with a finger on a screen. Camp registration needs to keep up.  As a camp director or administrator, your […]

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How Much Does Camp Management Software Cost? (A Practical Guide for Camp Directors) 

Shopping for camp management software? One of the first questions that comes up is:  How much will this really cost?  Between different pricing models, feature lists, and surprise fees, figuring it all out sometimes feels like packing up camp on closing, stressful and full of details you don’t want to miss. (Wants tips on how […]

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Engaging the Board: Off-Season Reports, Stories, and Vision 

The off-season presents your best opportunity to engage your camp board with clarity and purpose. With the right mix of camp board reports, compelling stories, and strategic direction, status updates transform into meaningful conversations.  Here’s how to keep your board informed, inspired, and invested when camp isn’t in session. Show, Don’t Just Tell: Share the […]

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The Rhythm of Culture: How Traditions Shape Camps 

A camp’s culture doesn’t happen overnight. It grows through shared experiences, simple traditions, and the stories that campers and staff carry with them year after year.  Whether you run a summer camp, a faith-based retreat, or a youth program, these building blocks create belonging, forge identity, and spark that unmistakable “this feels like home” experience.  […]

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How to Manage Burnout at Summer Camp

Mid-summer at camp brings unforgettable moments, campfire songs, goofy skits, and campers conquering fears. However, it also brings something else: exhaustion, frayed nerves, and burnout among even your most dedicated staff. Let’s take a look at how to manage burnout at summer camp. Addressing burnout protects the culture you’ve worked hard to build. Here’s how […]

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Image of a mount bike wheel on leafy ground.

Decode Camp Staff Burnout: The Camp Staff Experience Wheel

The Camp Experience Wheel: Measuring the Camp Staff Experience Imagine this: it’s mid-July, the sun is blazing, and your camp is in full swing. Campers are laughing and learning, but behind the scenes, your staff is starting to show signs of wear and tear. You notice some are looking exhausted, others are feeling overwhelmed, and […]

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Shutting Down the Camp Machine: How to End This Season with Next Season in Mind 

“We can’t find the Blob.”  “What?! It’s gigantic! What do you mean, ‘we can’t find the Blob’?”  “I dunno…” shrug. “At least…it’s not where you said it would be.”   “Sure it is. It’s next to the pool house under the –”  “Found it!” your radio shouts, interrupting your conversation with the new waterfront staff. “It’s […]

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