Inclusion Practices

Our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging includes an understanding that our policies and practices are ever-changing. As we actively work to become a more inclusive, less harmful organization, we recognize that mistakes will be made along the way. We view these moments as opportunities for growth and an invitation to learn, unlearn, and relearn. We are dedicated to continuous improvement, and as we learn and evolve, we will adjust our approaches to better reflect our values. Together, we strive to build a community that celebrates diversity, champions equity, and ensures that every voice is heard and respected.

Learn more about the participant and family experience here!

Inclusion in Program Registration Process

  • Registration forms will always have multiple gender expressions to choose from (male, female, nonbinary/gender queer). This information will only be collected for aggregate demographic data purposes and for overnight housing arrangements.

  • Registration forms will allow participants to identify any and all race/ethnicities that are right for them. Participants will also maintain the right to choose not to disclose. This information will only be shared in an aggregate, never with identifiers.

  • Participants who do not identify within a gender binary will work with PEAK & Lake Valley Camp staff to identify the best overnight housing options for them.

  • While PEAK programs are 100% free, we do require a $20 deposit per summer program. However, we will waive this deposit with zero burden of proof for any family who requests, as long as their child continues to attend programming.

Gender & LGBTQAAI2S+ Inclusion Practices

Leveraging insights gained from research and training from esteemed organizations such as the American Camp Association, Transplaining, the MKELGBT Community Center, and others, we have curated a set of best practices aimed at fostering a more gender-inclusive space. It's important to note that this list is dynamic and will adapt as we remain committed to ongoing learning and growth.

  • Staff set the tone and  model using and sharing pronouns by including pronouns in introductions and on name tags. For example, “Hello, my name is Mario, he/they, and I am your PEAK counselor!”

  • PEAK staff will model sharing pronouns in written ways through: email signatures, staff name tags, and staff page on website. Staff may choose to opt out.

  • Staff invite participants to share what they would like to be called and pronouns if they choose. 

  • Respect all participants’ gender identity and gender expression by honoring the right of participants to be identified and addressed by their preferred name and pronoun. 

    • In alignment with Milwaukee Public Schools’ policy &  guidelines, we will respect the privacy of a participant using a particular name/pronoun and not share with caregivers or anyone else unless the participant gives permission. We recognize the importance of involving caregivers in this process while prioritizing the well-being and emotional journey of the participant concerning their identity. Our goal is to create a safe space where the participant feels supported and valued while at PEAK. We will ALWAYS continue to openly share information with parents & guardians regarding their child’s health, safety, and happiness within programs.

  • For overnight programs, if a participant expresses a preference for a gendered housing different from the one registered by their parent/guardian, staff will involve the parent/guardian in discussing any potential housing changes and won’t make any changes without the parent/guardian’s approval. Please note that housing changes during a program are not guaranteed due to a variety of factors, including limited space. However, staff will collaborate with the participant to explore alternative ways to enhance their comfort, such as providing increased privacy in shared areas.

  • Reduce, within programming, the separation of participants based upon gender unless it serves as a compelling instructional tool. Train staff on alternative ways to make groups of students as listed here.

  • Permit all participants to participate in co-curricular and extracurricular activities* in a manner consistent with their gender identity. 

  • Provide all participants access to facilities that best align with participants' gender identity, and allow any participant to use the gender neutral facilities at the PEAK Program Center and in the dining hall at LVC.

  • Practicing and modeling a culture of consent by asking before giving high-fives, hugs, or touch of any kind.

  • Per Federal Law, under Title IX, PEAK/LVC will not disclose the gender expression, race, sexual orientation, religion, or any other protected identity of any staff member or of a participant’s cabin mates.

Identity-based Discrimination & Bullying

Discrimination, Bullying, and/or Harassment on the basis of gender identity, gender expression, gender nonconformity, race, religion, language, age, ability, or any other identity, is not tolerated at PEAK Initiative and will be subject to the consequences as laid out in the Community Expectations. Examples of unacceptable activity include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Conduct that makes an individual feel unsafe/harmed** when using facilities that coincide with any part of their identity. 

  • Conduct that makes an individual feel unsafe/harmed** when participating in or sharing experiences about activities that coincide with any part of their identity.

  • Conduct that makes any individual feel unsafe/harmed** based on their identity while at PEAK Initiative/Lake Valley Camp programs, or outside of programs (online, etc.).

  • Using language that is exclusionary or unwelcoming to individuals based on identity.

*We will continue to offer affinity groups in certain spaces. An Affinity Group is a group of individuals who are connected by a common purpose, belief, background, identity or interest. Affinity Groups play a vital role in ensuring an inclusive environment where all are valued, included, and empowered to succeed.

**A note on unsafe versus uncomfortable: Navigating discomfort is a critical part of growth and learning. At times, stepping into the unfamiliar or being in community with people who live or act differently from you, can evoke feelings of discomfort. However it's crucial to recognize that discomfort doesn't always equate to being unsafe. In fact, it often signifies the threshold of personal and collective development. At PEAK, we encourage embracing discomfort as a catalyst for positive change and community building. We recognize that it is within these moments that individuals and communities often expand their understanding, perspectives, and resilience. By fostering a culture that distinguishes between discomfort and genuine harm, we hope to create a space where everyone can explore, learn, and contribute to a more inclusive and enriching community.