Dear Camp SAY Community,
We have bittersweet news to share. Kendra has chosen to pursue new opportunities at this stage in her career and will no longer be the Director of Camp SAY. We are deeply grateful for the 2-plus years of leadership Kendra provided to Camp SAY. Kendra’s heart for youth is unmatched, and she has impacted countless kids and teenagers across the country. We will miss her very much, and all of us at SAY wish her the absolute best.
Here is a message from Kendra:
Camp SAY Community,
I am writing to share my upcoming transition from Camp SAY, as my last day will be Friday, October 10. I am deeply grateful to have been a part of creating a space where campers who stutter can find their voice, build confidence and independence, form lasting friendships, and be truly heard.
Creating spaces where campers can safely and bravely express themselves has always been deeply important to me. And for that reason, I have valued the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful mission. As I embark on my next adventure, I wish the SAY community success and many more opportunities for campers and their families to connect and grow together in the powerful spaces created by camp! Continue to Dream Big and Shine on.
With best wishes,
Kendra
That is the bitter part of the news.
The sweet part of the news is that long-time Camp SAY Leadership Staff Member and person who stutters, Rich Stephens, will be the new Director of Camp SAY. Rich has been involved in Camp SAY for over 10 years, and his dedication to SAY and the stuttering community is unparalleled. Rich has served as Camp SAY’s Associate Director for the past several years, and we are confident that his transition into this new role will be seamless.
Here is what Kendra had to say about Rich:
“Rich embodies the spirit of Camp SAY. His energy, creativity, and passion for the community will shine through every bit of the camp experience for campers and staff. Rich’s longtime commitment to and experience in leading Camp SAY will ensure Camp continues to be a welcoming and empowering, fun and meaningful space where everyone has the time they need to share what’s on their heart and be genuinely heard and cared for. After working alongside Rich, I am excited for him to lead Camp SAY.”
And here is a message from Rich:
Camp SAY Community,
I’m beyond excited and deeply humbled to share that I’ll be stepping into the role of Camp Director at Camp SAY – an incredible place that has held my heart and changed my life in every way since the very first summer I volunteered as a bunk counselor back in 2015.
As a person who stutters, I know firsthand how powerful and important it is to have a space where it’s okay to stutter – which is why Camp SAY has always been so much more than a summer camp to me. It’s a home — a place where young people who stutter can discover their voices, build confidence and independence, form lifelong friendships, and truly be themselves.
I’ve seen the power of this community transform countless lives — mine included — and I’m so proud and feel incredibly lucky to continue being part of this journey with our incredible team, campers, and their families.
I want to say a huge thank you to Kendra for her amazing leadership, heart, and all that she’s done to continue to make Camp SAY the magical, welcoming place it is today. I’m honored to follow in her footsteps and carry forward the spirit and love she’s poured into camp.
I can’t wait to get started to create another beautiful summer together where every camper is seen, heard, and loved. Another summer where camp is filled with laughter, courage, connection, and unforgettable moments for every camper, family, and staff member who calls Camp SAY home.
All of us at SAY could not be more excited about Camp SAY 2026! Please know that we are here to help and support you and your family in any way we can.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
With gratitude,
Russell, SAY’s Executive Director & Taro, SAY’s Founder