Camp Hillcroft has been an IENA camp for over 30 years. Sally Buttinger, camp director and owner was a BUNAC participant in the early 1990’s and with her marriage to Greg, camp became an integral part of her life. Camp Hillcroft, located in Duchess County in New York, made the switch to a Day Camp in 1992 and has the very interesting advantage of being a Day Camp in a resident camp setting thus being able to provide accommodation in camp to a large number of staff. IENA has an excellent relationship with Hillcroft and the Buttinger family – long may it continue!!
See what Sally had to say below.
Please tell us a little about your camp :
Family owned and operated since 1950. Resident camp from 1950 to 1992. Day Camp from 1987 – present.
Traditional camp – program activities – over 35 choices but very traditional – farm, nature, sports, art, dance, climbing etc. The focus is on children and their social growth and development. Campers come for extended time not just one week thus promotes growth and relationships.
What makes International staff important to your camp?
Opens our campers eyes to the world around them and exposes them to different cultures, accents, religions, languages, food – making them more tolerant to others, open to the world and sensitive to others differences.
Are there any specific skills you generally hire international staff for?
Almost all of our 35 Program areas are taught by International staff. For sure the following are always taught by overseas staff –
Archery, Fencing, Waterfront, Tennis, Gymnastics, Farm, Nature, Music, Dance, Climbing, Outdoor Adventure.
