Willow Lake Campground and RV Park, nestled in the heart of Woodstock, Ontario (Canada) has made history by becoming the first campground in Canada to receive Unity Blaze Certification.
Founded with the mission of promoting diversity and inclusivity in outdoor pursuits, Black Folks Camp Too has been tirelessly working to encourage campgrounds across North America to broaden their horizons, inviting and welcoming a more diverse range of campers.
The Unity Blaze Certification is a cornerstone of this drive, a comprehensive customer service program that elucidates the founding principles of Black Folks Camp Too.
Earl Hunter Jr., the founder of Black Folks Camp Too, lauded Willow Lake’s achievement, underscoring the growing international recognition of their mission.
“It’s truly amazing to know that campgrounds in other countries understand the value of our company and mission. Willow Lake Campground may be smaller than others, but their impact is mightier than most!“ Hunter Jr. proclaimed.
The Unity Blaze Certification doesn’t just champion diversity; it also becomes a beacon for all people, regardless of race, age, or gender, assuring them of a warm welcome and inclusive experience.
Willow Lake Campground is proud to display this symbol, a testament to their commitment to fostering unity in the outdoor community, on their website, promotional materials, and directly at the campground itself.
Established almost a century ago, Willow Lake Campground and RV Park have been under the stewardship of Mark and Melanie Jaycock since 2017.
During this time, the campground has garnered multiple provincial accolades and carved a niche as a safe, family-oriented camping destination popular with patrons from Southwestern Ontario and far beyond North America’s borders.
For private campground owners and operators in Canada, Willow Lake’s Unity Blaze Certification sets a compelling precedent.
The outdoor recreation industry, a vital component of Canada’s tourism sector, can only benefit from a more diverse and inclusive approach.
Taking the steps to understand cultural nuances and intentionally creating welcoming spaces for campers of all backgrounds might not only increase revenues but also cultivate a broader community of camping enthusiasts.
As Black Folks Camp Too continues to champion its mission, the heart of which is the Unity Blaze symbol, more campgrounds across the world are expected to follow suit. The symbol serves as an invitation and welcome to everyone, a testimony to the power of unity in the outdoors. This is a crucial message, signaling that race, age, and gender should not be barriers to enjoying the great outdoors.
In their quest to create lifetime memories, Willow Lake expressed their anticipation for the partnership with Black Folks Camp Too.
“We hope our partnership with Black Folks Camp Too will not only allow us to reach a diverse new audience but also shows our passion for diversity and inclusion in the camping world…we are very, very excited to welcome new campers to Willow Lake and to raise the Unity Blaze flag over our campground,” the Jaycocks shared.
With this monumental step, Willow Lake Campground has truly set the stage for a more diverse and inclusive outdoor recreation industry in Canada, inviting everyone to gather and create memories around the campfire.
Featured image from Willow Lake Campground and RV Park.