Let me introduce myself

I'm Allison Hirsch, your Camp Expert for families in Northern Bergen County, New Jersey.

My first bunk

I don't come from a family that went to camp but my mother said that of all her children, I was the one who craved experiences so I spent a few weeks at a local day camp and did a week here or there at sport camps. My husband also only went to day camp so when our eight year-old decided she wanted to go to sleep away camp we were thrilled to find The Camp Experts to help us navigate this unfamiliar terrain. It was through her experience at Trail's End and then our son's time at Island Lake that we have seen the benefits of camp.

From camper to camp expert

I spent fifteen years as an advertising sales director and more recently as a professional matchmaker (yes, dating these days is crazy!). Both of these positions have taught me to be a skilled listener, reading between the lines to ascertain what is needed to achieve success. Having been a Camp Expert client myself, helps me relate to those who are unfamiliar with the process and allows me to walk them through the options and aid them in making the best decision for both their child and them.

Ultimate camp highlight

My all-time favorite camp activity has to be song and cheer. When my daughter would come home from her summer at camp and sing their team songs, I just know she will hold on to those memories forever. It reminds me of singing songs at sorority rush in college and how I still sing our lyrics when I hear certain songs!

Why I love this job

To me, working as a Camp Expert is a good deed. I have seen the benefits camp left on my children and know it is one of the biggest gifts we gave them. Hearing from a parent that their child had a great summer and can't wait to go back to camp is the best reward!

My home bunk

My husband, Justin, and I have two children: a daughter who is 17 and a son who is 14. As our daughter prepares to leave for college in the fall, I know she will be ok because she has left home before, gaining life skills and independence she would not have if it were not for her years at camp.

Why I feel camp is a valuable experience

In a world, where children are still feeling the social deficits left from covid and a growing dependence on technology, a device-free summer at camp, has never been more vital. Providing children with a safe environment to try new things and learn to deal with obstacles head-on makes camp invaluable.