Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility & Enrollment
Who can attend Camp Desi Roots?
What is the eligible age to participate in Camp Desi Roots?
The eligible ages vary based on camp:
- Our overnight summer camp is for campers ages 8 – 16, though we have had 8-year-olds in the past who are emotionally mature enough to stay overnight on their own and hold conversations related to their identity.
When does camp start and end?
Camp starts at 2pm on Sunday, August 1st, and ends at 2pm on Saturday, August 7th, though families are welcome to hang out longer for our Family Picnic, and get to know other families!
Cost & Financial Support
Do you offer scholarships?
We are committed to providing this camp experience to all South Asian families, regardless of financial means. If your financial situation does not allow you to send your child to camp, please reach out to Prerna directly to discuss scholarship options – prerna@campdesiroots.com.
We offer a sliding scale based on need, including both partial and full scholarships.
Do you offer discounts?
There is a 5% sibling discount.
Health & Safety
What safety precautions do you take for camp?
We take safety seriously at Camp Desi Roots. Below are the safety precautions we have in place:
- All adults on site, including counselors and volunteers must complete their clearances to participate (child abuse, FBI, and background check)
- All water activities and ropes courses are supervised by trained and certified camp personnel, including dedicated lifeguards for water sports
- Campers are never alone, out of sight of adults. If they are traveling to another part of the camp, they must be accompanied by either another camper of the or an adult
- Counselors either bunk with campers at night, or in rooms directly across from them with the doors open
- When campers are playing outside during choice time, there are counselors in each designated area supervising kids
Do you have health staff at Camp Desi Roots?
What is the counselor to camper ratio at Camp Desi Roots?
The counselor to camper ratio for Camp Desi Roots overnight camps is 5:1, with a number of adult volunteers, instructors, and partners who also serve as mentors.
Our counselors sleep in the same cabins as our campers, and check in with them on a daily basis, both in small groups, and 1:1.
Do you offer vegetarian options at camp, or options for kids with allergies?
Life at Camp
What should my child bring to camp?
What is your cellphone policy for campers?
We believe in maintaining a technology free environment for our campers so they can fully immerse themselves in community, and get the most out of their experience. Campers will not have access to cellphones or any other internet enabled devices. However, we will be in touch and share photos, and counselors will be available if you need to get in touch re: urgent matters.
Can I come to camp with my child?
A lot of families have expressed that they don’t think their children are ready for overnight camp. As desi parents ourselves, we understand this sentiment.
We welcome parents to join as parent volunteers (we always need help!), as well as potentially offer their talents as workshop facilitators or instructors. Get in touch to learn how you can get involved! (prerna@campdesiroots.com)
The last day of camp is also a family barbecue, where families will have a chance to meet each other, and campers will have the opportunity to showcase their “stories of self”!
Become Part of the Circle
Our counselors are the heart of camp — the ones who turn a week of activities into a week kids remember for life. If you love working with South Asian youth and want to help build a space where they feel seen, we’d love to hear from you.