Welcome Friend Association - Thessalon, Ontario

Cheryl I.

2 days before the bus we were informed by email that camp is cancelled for the whole summer, with no support for the kids or parents and no response to requests for support. Now I hear rumours that they hired a new camp director who wouldn't listen and alienated staff, but the people in charge refused to help and staff quit en masse because they felt unsafe and unsupported. Our kid is left disappointed and without any alternative or even a way to connect with other disappointed campers. They let everyone down and acted like it isn't a big deal, while it's a massive deal for over 140 kids who have their summer ruined. I don't see how we can ever trust them again. I'm so let down because previous years' campers had such transformative experiences, but it sounds like the leadership is too poor to be responsible for the well-being of our kids.

Julia S.

Do not work here by any means. Your camper will probably have a good time though

Kerry T.

UPDATE: unfortunately, after the 2023 camp season, I find it necessary to rescind my previous review.

2023 was characterized by a complete abdication of responsibility of the organization with respect to camper safety and staff wellbeing. A shame to see an organization with such dedicated camp staff and such irresponsible, abusive management. It's no longer a safe place for the very community that it was developed to serve, thanks to the egos of a group of cis men running the org who decided that employment and accessibility legislation were optional, and that human rights legislation is a mere suggestion. Such a shame. 🙁

My previous review still applies to the camp site-staff who did their best to shelter campers from the harm caused by the Camp Director, WFA executive director, and WFA board of directors. But, it's those managers/directors who destroyed the safety, affirmation and beauty of the place and are not being held accountable by the Ontario Camps Association and other regulatory bodies.

In short: don't send your vulnerable queer and trans youth to Rainbow Camp unless it until it is under completely different administration. As it stands, it is no longer a safe place for anyone except a handful of cruel old men.

Previous review:
Absolutely brilliant programming makes the camp one of the most inclusive and affirming places on earth. They also offer excellent parent programming, and virtual community for 2SLGBTQQIA+ youth.

Raven M.

Needs change in management. They overpromised and underdelivered with no apology or regard for the harm done.

Tom S.