Growing Character Muscles at ESF!

We believe building muscles of character is similar to building physical muscles. Investing energy in each muscle stimulates growth. We thread opportunities throughout the camp day to strengthen these muscles, thereby making character development a key differentiator of an ESF Experience. It is our goal throughout the summer to provide campers with a personalized “tool belt” for individual success by engaging them in a wide variety of activities, rituals and traditions.

As a result, ESF campers become stronger, healthier, and more resilient. We build upon family values and continue to shape the “Character Muscles” of our campers through our 8 ESF Virtues. We refer to them as the ESFV’s!

ESF is the premier camp experience for valuable life lessons!

ESF draws inspiration from a variety of industry Thought Leaders. Our relationship with these exemplary professionals has helped us develop curriculum that incorporates the best practices in child development, motivational techniques and character growth. Watch this video to learn more from the ESF subject matter experts below and discover how ESF’s culture nurtures and develops strength of character in our campers each and every day!

  • Dr. Jim Loehr, Cofounder of the Johnson & Johnson Human Performance Institute, author and a world-renowned sports psychologist
  • Lorenzo Beltrame, Creator of the Mental Toughness Certification Program at the Johnson & Johnson Human Performance Institute
  • Orly Wahba, author, Ted Talk speaker and Founder/CEO of Life Vest Inside
  • Lee Brower, Motivational Expert, author, and Founder of Empowered Wealth LLC

THE 8 ESF VIRTUES OF CHARACTER

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Gratitude

We start each morning with a smile and by "Going Big" (Being In Gratitude).

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Trustworthiness

We develop leaders and entrust them with unique responsibilities at camp.

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Kindness

We encourage campers to perform random acts of kindness and compassion.

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Resiliency

We provide campers with the tools to become stronger with each endeavor.

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Respect

We have no rules, only three Agreements: Respect Yourself, Respect Others and Respect the Environment.

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Effort

We celebrate the amazing talents, accomplishments and efforts of our campers.

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Positivity

We practice positive language and actively encourage a mindset of "positive focus".

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Community

We celebrate team and build community at camp with an emphasis on empathy.