Since 1907, Kamp Kohut has provided a nurturing environment dedicated to enriching the lives of young people. In its earliest decades, the Kohut community was relatively homogeneous, drawing campers from a few major Northeastern metropolitan centers and staff from a handful of American universities. Over time, however, we have made a conscious and intentional effort to expand our reach. Today, the Kohut community is more globally connected and diverse than ever before, a trend that continues to accelerate.
In Summer 2025, the Kohut community included representatives from 25 states and 23 different countries, stretching across six continents.
A Commitment to Diversity
At Kohut, diversity is not just a buzzword; it is an intentional commitment to a summer camp program that recognizes and celebrates the unique background and upbringing of every community member. This lens extends far beyond geography. We strive to cultivate a camp community rich in racial, religious, and socioeconomic diversity. Our goal is to ensure that even here in Maine, one of the least diverse states in the US, the “Kohut Bubble” serves as a vibrant microcosm of the broader world.
For three and a half weeks, Kamp Kohut is a sanctuary where connections are made based on mutual respect for one another’s differences. In a time when differences can often lead to division, Kohut is committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where young people are valued for their character. When a camper from Louisville, Kentucky bonds with bunkmates from Madrid, Spain and Jakarta, Indonesia during an “Evening Activity” of S’Mores and campfire stories, facilitated by counselors from Florida, New York, Australia, and Scotland, she is gaining invaluable cross-cultural awareness. This experience is more than just summer fun; it’s a vital life skill that prepares her and everyone else around the campfire for a future in an increasingly interconnected world.
It Starts on Day One
Creating a safe, warm, and inviting environment for all does not happen by chance. During our intensive all-staff orientation, we devote significant time to professional training workshops focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. These sessions, led by outside speakers, ensure our staff (who themselves come from all walks of life) are equipped to lead with empathy and curiosity. By learning to navigate cultural nuances and foster a sense of belonging, our counselors ensure the “Kohut spirit” is felt by everyone, regardless of where they call home.
Families choose Kamp Kohut because they know their children will return home not just with new skills, but with a broader perspective on the world and the people around them. By living together for nearly a month in a tech-free, close-knit, and nurturing community like Kohut, everyone learns to value the unique contributions of others and to recognize that our differences are our greatest strength.