Camp Leadership Spotlight - Freckles

Overnight Head Counselor Ivelisse “Freckles” Mandato shares her Camp Casco journey and why she loves being in a camp leadership role.

I heard about Camp Casco through an email from Boston College's campus ministry. As a survivor myself, I really saw the value in a space where kids can find comfort in their shared experiences and knew I wanted to apply.

I have a lot of great memories at camp, but a standout memory from my first summer as a counselor would be t-rex lunches. 

Camp Casco has created a place that feels like coming home to family.  I knew I'd love to play a bigger part in making that magic happen, and I decided to apply for a leadership position at Camp Casco. 

Freckles at Overnight Camp 2023

I'm currently the Head Counselor for Overnight Camp.  I help with planning camp throughout the year, interview counselors, draft counselor training, and ensure counselors feel supported throughout the week while helping put out any little fires that may arise. 

If someone is thinking about applying for a Camp Casco leadership position, I recommend considering what you want to get out of camp. Leadership means less time with the kids but playing a bigger part in making sure their week is the best it can possibly be.  It's rewarding and fun, but in different ways compared to being a counselor.

My favorite part of Camp Casco is the people! I love them all—campers, counselors, leadership, and beyond. Everyone makes camp feel like home, and I always feel so overjoyed when I get to go back each August.

Ready to step into a leadership role? Click here to apply.