It was through an initiative of the Montreal YMCA that Quebecs first resident camp came to be in 1894. Known today as Kamp Kanawana, the camp was originally for young Anglophone boys. The main objective of the camp was to get the kids out of the city during this era of industrialization.
In 1912, la Colonie de vacances Les Grèves de Contrecur became the first camp in Quebec for Francophone boys. In 1917, Camp Oolahwan for Anglophone girls opened its doors, and, in 1926, la Colonie Sainte-Jeanne D'arc opened and welcomed Francophone girls. As was the case elsewhere in North America, the number of resident camps increased significantly after the Second World War.
Now, a century later, 85,000 youths enjoy the benefits of A.C.Q.-certified camps in Quebec every year. Todays camps welcome children aged 3 to17 throughout Quebec and provide a wide range of enriching and fun activities.
A History of the A.C.Q.
The A.C.Q. was founded in the early sixties when a group of camp directors met to exchange ideas and experiences and develop tools. At first, the A.C.Q. focused on training and marketing. The first accreditation program was launched in 1967; in 1970 it became a mandatory condition for membership in the Association des camps du Québec.
The period from 1967 to 1979 was characterized by a detailed, systematic accreditation system (with specific standards depending on activities and type of camps). The evolving issue of resident camps and the new realities of a changing society necessitated a regular review of standards for camps and stringent enforcement.
Since 1993, three types of camps are now accredited by the A.C.Q.: resident camps, day camps and nature classes (for school groups).
In 2005, the term certification replaced accreditation following the development of a new logo and a new certification procedure. New terminology was adopted by the organization: accreditation" and "accredited were replaced with certification" and "certified.
In 2007, the A.C.Q. presented important research on the population of Quebec and campers validating the benefits experience by youths participating in certified camps. Results of the study will be released in October 2008 at the 8th International Camping Congress in Quebec City.
By continuously evolving to meet higher standards, needs and new legislation, the A.C.Q. has established its leadership among Canadian provincial associations, as well as associations in the United States. The A.C.Q. certification is a proven symbol of safety and high quality that will continue to serve as an effective means of guaranteeing services to which children are entitled.