Having fun at camp is important, but finding a program with a qualified director should be your top priority

When you're looking for a summer camp, your first inclination might be to seek out a program with activities your kids will love.  You want your kids to have fun at camp, so that's a natural place to start.  But even though the programs and activities are important, equally important -- if not more so -- are the people running the show.

Who owns the camp? Who are the counselors? Who will be supervising your kids? Are they qualified? Experienced? Friendly?

Who is the Camp Director?

The answers to these questions is essential to ensuring your child has a safe and fun camp experience this year.  It's important that you like and trust the camp director before sending your kids to their program. That's we started this new special feature on our website, "Meet the Camp Director." Each week we'll interview a different local camp director on video and post it here so you can get a sense of how you feel about him or her on a personal level.

Meet Camp Director Jim Patterson of Harvard Westlake Summer

Today we're introducing you to Jim Patterson of Harvard Westlake Summer programs, one of L.A's top camps for kids and teens. Jim's one of the friendliest, most approachable, and knowledgeable guys we know.  Our feeling is that any family would benefit by sending their kids to his programs. We bet you'll feel the same after getting to know Jim on video. Enjoy!