The Night We Stopped Serving Snacks and Started Building Community

From Our Leadership

Over the last two years, we have completely reimagined our approach to nutrition at Base Camp. During a leadership retreat, our team identified an important truth: our students cannot reach their full academic and life potential until we address their foundational needs. With Maslow’s Hierarchy in mind, we shifted our approach.

Initially, we focused on providing healthier options through fresh fruit and high-quality protein snacks. We saw encouraging results, including improvements in attendance and performance, but something still felt missing. At the end of the day, they were still just snacks.

As I reflected on the Schreiber Island experience, I realized that one of the most powerful aspects of camp has always been food and fellowship. Gathering around a table, sharing a meal, and building community is part of the magic. That led us to ask a simple question: why not bring that same experience back to Base Camp?

Josh Pigford, one of our original campers in 2012, has always had a passion for food, community, and our Schreiber boys. As an alumnus who experienced camp firsthand, he immediately understood the vision. It also helps that he is an exceptional cook.

For the last year, Josh has led our family dinners for students, staff, families, and community partners. These meals have become much more than food. They have become opportunities for connection. Josh regularly invites students into the kitchen, teaching them cooking skills and exposing them to dynamic flavors and cuisines from around the world. He pours love and care into every part of the process, and it is a joy to share, discuss, and enjoy together.

The impact has been incredible. We have seen growth not only in student performance and experience, but also in the relationships that define the Schreiber family. More than anything, these meals have strengthened our community and brought people together.