Future Stars Summer Camp has earned accreditation from the American Camp Association (ACA) for the 2026 season, the organization announced. The designation makes Future Stars an ACA-Accredited Camp, a recognition that follows a comprehensive review of up to 290 standards covering staff qualifications, training, emergency management, program quality, and other operational areas.
The American Camp Association is the only independent accrediting body for camps in the United States. It collaborates with experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other youth-serving agencies to establish and maintain industry-recognized standards. ACA President and CEO Henry DeHart emphasized that accreditation means Future Stars underwent a thorough evaluation and met the highest standards in the industry.
“State regulation varies widely and, at its best, can only go so far,” DeHart said. “Because of this, ACA’s accreditation program is a valuable resource that goes beyond regulation to strengthen camp practices related to health and safety.” The accreditation process included an independent peer review that assessed health, safety, and program standards at Future Stars SUNY Purchase.
For HR vendors serving the camp and youth program industry, this accreditation signals a growing emphasis on standardized, third-party validation of safety and quality. As camps compete for families and staff, ACA accreditation can become a key differentiator, potentially driving demand for HR technology solutions that help camps track staff qualifications, training compliance, and emergency preparedness. Vendors offering workforce management, background screening, or learning management systems may find new opportunities among camps seeking to achieve or maintain accreditation.
Jordan Snider, COO and Future Stars Purchase Site Director, said the achievement validates what the camp has known for decades. “Families trust us to provide not just an exceptional summer experience, but a safe, nurturing environment where children thrive,” Snider said. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our entire team and our ongoing commitment to excellence.” The camp maintains an 8:1 camper-to-staff ratio and employs certified teachers and coaches, which were key factors in meeting ACA’s rigorous standards.
Future Stars’ reputation among families reflects its consistent quality, with 96% of parents recommending the camp and 70% of campers returning each year. Founded in 1980, the camp has grown from a small tennis program into one of New York’s most comprehensive specialty camp operations, offering 35+ programs ranging from traditional sports like soccer and basketball to STEAM education, circus arts, and horseback riding. The camp operates at premier facilities across multiple locations and is opening its 11th location in Sayville for the 2026 season.
For more information about the camp’s programs and standards, visit Future Stars Camps or learn about accreditation standards at ACA Camps.
