Alliance for Camp Health and ACA New England Announce New Strategic Partnership to Expand Access to MESH (+) Seal Program for Camps Across the Northeast
April 21, 2025
The Alliance for Camp Health (ACH) and the American Camp Association, New England (ACA New England) are proud to announce a new collaborative partnership designed to strengthen and elevate mental, emotional, and social health practices across Summer Programs in the region. Through this agreement, ACA New England Accredited and Member Camps will gain expanded, discounted access to the MESH (+) Seal Program, a research-backed nationally recognized framework for whole-community care and well-being in summer programs.
At the heart of this partnership is a shared commitment to creating healthier, more connected, and more resilient camp learning environments—places where both youth and staff thrive.
Camps applying through this partnership will receive 20% off their MESH (+) Seal application fee.
“We’re excited to work collaboratively with ACH to ensure that our member camps have access to the latest research-backed tools and support systems,” shared Michele Rowcliffe, Executive Director of ACA New England. “The MESH (+) Seal not only reflects best practices in camp health—it also represents a shared commitment to continuous growth, belonging, and the positive mental health and well-being of every camper and staff member.”
The MESH (+) Seal recognizes camps that intentionally cultivate environments where well-being can flourish. Developed by a multidisciplinary team of educators, clinicians, and youth-serving professionals, the Seal builds on evidence-based practices and supports systemic improvements in how camps care for their communities. The Seal is awarded at Bronze, Silver, or Gold levels for an organization’s ability to uphold values within specific pillars of the MESH (+) Framework and is valid for two years.
“Partnering with ACA New England allows us to expand the reach of the MESH (+) Seal and directly support camps that are deeply committed to cultivating well-being,” said Tracey Gaslin, CEO of the Alliance for Camp Health. “ACA New England’s innovative spirit in this work is what we believe every camp association needs to elevate care for healthier communities . We believe their leadership is invaluable as we work together to ensure more camps can access the training, resources, and support they need to create environments where all campers and staff feel safe, connected, and cared for.”
As part of the new partnership, ACH and ACA New England will co-host three virtual professional development workshops for New England camps—one in the spring and one in the fall with a follow up session to provide assistance, education and support. These sessions will support understanding and implementation of MESH (+) principles and help camps navigate the application process. Additionally, both organizations will promote the MESH (+) Seal across their networks and provide joint communications, resources, and reciprocal recognition on their respective websites.
REGISTER FOR:
Introduction to MESH (+) Seal: Virtual Info Session
Wednesday, April, 30 10am – 11am
About Alliance for Camp Health
The Alliance for Camp Health (ACH) is the leading authority on health and well-being in camps and out-of-school time (OST) youth programming. A nationally recognized thought leader, ACH advances the field through research, expert-led education, and collaborative
community-building. We believe a safe, healthy camp experience is intentionally designed to promote well-being—where young people thrive through connection, growth, and experiential learning.
ACH equips camp leaders, healthcare professionals, behavioral health specialists, and youth development experts with evidence-based resources, training, and advocacy focused on elevating the quality and safety of the summer ecosystem. Our membership brings together nurses, camp directors, out-of-school time leaders, physicians, mental health professionals, researchers, and educators—all united in their commitment to elevating care for healthier communities. Through innovative programming, strategic partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to elevating care, ACH is shaping the future of camp health.
For more information on the MESH (+) Seal Program and how to get involved, visit https://allianceforcamphealth.org/education-and-resources/mesh-resources/
About ACA, New England
The American Camp Association, New England is the region’s leader in camp accreditation, education, and advocacy. As the New England Affiliate of the American Camp Association, ACA New England has supported the camp community across New England since 1949, with roots that trace back to 1910. The organization accredits more than 350 day and overnight camps and provides year-round professional development, resources, and support to ensure camps operate at the highest standards of quality and safety.
With a mission to advance the camp community through resources and partnerships, ACA New England promotes excellence, access, and professionalism in the camp experience. The organization envisions a world where camp is widely accessible and deeply valued for its contributions to youth development, education, health, and belonging.