Camp Alliwannado expands into Wellesley

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

What was once a summer camp for kids in Tavistock has announced plans to open up in a third municipality.

Camp Alliwannado and the Township of Wellesley have announced a new partnership, just a few years after the operation expanded into Ayr.

"We are excited to join forces with the Township of Wellesley. Our shared vision of nurturing the power of outdoor play and personal growth will create lasting memories for all participants," said Ash Baer, the camp’s director of operations.

Camp Alliwannado will operate for six weeks at the Township of Wellesley Recreation Complex.

“The state-of-the-art facility offers a safe and enriching environment where young campers can learn, play, and grow. The camp features leadership development, outdoor adventures, creative arts, sports, and educational activities, each tailored to inspire and engage children at every age level,” according to a joint press release.

Baer said growth is a part of the organization’s vision.

“We are looking to go into more communities that need access to day camp and an outdoor experience in the summer. Wellesley was on our radar for a little while and we heard from the township recently that they wanted to get it going. After some strategic planning on both ends, we decided it was a good partnership and we moved ahead.”

Founded over a decade ago in Tavistock by Annie Rowland, the camp has a history of fostering personal growth and community spirit.

“The partnership not only enhances summer camp opportunities but also creates over 25 jobs for local youth, contributing to the community's economic and social vitality,” added the release.

“In partnership with Camp Alliwannado, The Township of Wellesley is thrilled to bring an exciting array of summer camps to the Township Recreation Complex for Summer 2025,” explained township CAO Rik Louwagie. “This collaboration brings  together the best of both worlds, creating memorable, enriching experiences for families and ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and make lasting memories right here in our community.”

The need for camps was originally identified from feedback gathered in the 2023 Recreation Master Plan. The Township discovered that a local childcare organization that previously offered summer camps would no longer be offering camps in 2025.

“That news left a void in camps opening the opportunity for the township to bring summer camps to the township,” Louwagie added. “The camp will take place mainly outdoors and utilize the park, soccer fields and trail at the complex. The arena floor at the Bill Gies Recreation Centre will also be available for campers as well as the gymnasium when not booked for other activities and events.”

Baer and Rowland went to high school together at Waterloo Oxford. Baer was working at an overnight camp and the two talked about Rowland’s idea to start a day camp in Tavistock over a decade ago.

“We connected and I supported her just by being in the same industry. I officially started full-time with her just this month. With the ability to expand and have Annie remain in her teaching role, I came on operationally to ensure as we grow from site to site the standard doesn’t change and we can keep elevating the experience.”

Finding daycare options, particularly in the summer, can be challenging in many smaller communities. Baer said they recognize that which is another reason they are looking to expand further. She added creating an affordable option for parents is also top of mind.

“One priority for us is to maintain our fees. We know life is very expensive right now, we are all living through it. Camp is something needed for summer enjoyment but the reality is parents need somewhere for their kids to go. If they are going to go somewhere it should be a place of learning and where they can make connections and have outdoor summer fun.”

She adding they are very cautious about raising rates and at the same time are smart about the way programs are brought to life.

“We want to ensure people can afford camp and at the same time pay staff members a fair wage.”

The camp said it will try to accommodate all registrants but each week will be capped at 60 participants. Online registration for the Wellesley dates opened Wednesday evening.

“Together, Camp Alliwannado and the Township of Wellesley are committed to providing affordable, local childcare that fosters a sense of adventure and creativity. Each week, campers will enjoy diverse themes,  such as "Taylor Swift vs. Travis Kelce Week," "Movie Magic," and "Camp Curiosity," ensuring there is something for every interest,” explained the release.

More information is available at www.campalliwannado.com.