On Sunday, April 19, 2026, Out Chicago co-hosts Scott Duff and Ellen Miller engaged Alliance Program Director Julio Flores in conversation about the magic of Action Camp for LGBTQ+ young people and their peers.

They spoke about the history and evolution of Action Camp from a one-day event at a local university to a five-day camp in the woods. They expressed gratitude for young leaders who vocalize their vision — in schools, in communities, with each other and with adults — how the vision and efforts of young people make Action Camp what it is now, and how it will continue to evolve.

They discussed how actively young people are looking for ways to support each other right now, and how Action Camp offers a way to build community, learn, exchange resources, and make friends. Their conversation covered a lot of territory — including teamwork, bugs, and the near-absence of technology at camp, and the joy of witnessing campers emerge with more and more authenticity and freedom as the week progresses.

–> Listen Here <–

Action Camp is open to rising 8th through 12th graders, and Camper Applications are due on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 9pm. Learn more.

Learn more here about how the Alliance collaborates with and supports LGBTQ+ youth beyond Action Camp.