Team

Meet Alvaro “Alvi” Baquero-Benedetti, our Head Counselor whose connection with our camp runs deep. Starting as a camper for seven enriching years, Alvi transitioned into roles such as Counselor-in-Training, Head Counselor for four years, and Director of Family Camp for one. His educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Media and an MFA in Film and TV Production, providing him with a unique blend of creativity and media expertise. Throughout his journey at camp, Alvi discovered a profound sense of belonging and authenticity, especially cherishing the warmth of campfires—a sentiment that underscores his passion for every aspect of camp life. 

Beyond his professional qualifications, Alvi brings a wealth of personal skills and interests to our team. Known for his methodical approach, organizational prowess, and adaptive leadership style, he creates a structured yet empathetic environment where campers and staff thrive. During winters, Alvi channels his passion for teaching by instructing skiing, further demonstrating his commitment to empowering others through outdoor activities. His love for travel enriches his perspective, allowing him to appreciate and celebrate the diverse backgrounds of our counselors. 

Alvi’s vision for our camp community is rooted in inclusivity and mutual respect. He aims to foster an environment where everyone feels accepted and valued, contributing to a cohesive and supportive camp culture. His dedication to creating meaningful experiences aligns with our mission to nurture personal growth and camaraderie among campers and staff alike, ensuring that each summer at camp is filled with cherished memories and positive transformations. 

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Brenda is our Director of Finance and Operations and works year round to help all aspects of the business run smoothly. Brenda has been working with Forest Lake since 2009 and has been key to the success of behind the scenes operations like accounting, forms, transportation and various office matters. Brenda’s incredible organizational skills, attention to detail and ‘can do’ attitude brings an enormous benefit to FLC. She will be available year round to help parents and the other administrators plan and prepare everything so we can have a smooth and fun filled summer.

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Matt might be new to the full-time team but isn’t new to FLC! He joining us as a past camper, counselor and member of the rentals/events team. With a background in wilderness education, leadership, and event planning, Matt brings his passion for nature and expertise in crafting extraordinary experiences. He is dedicated to connecting people to nature and to each other through events and facility rentals on the beautiful Forest Lake Camp property.

Matt is excited to bring life long memories and joyful moments to everyone who comes to Forest Lake Camp for events, weddings, and retreats.

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Coby’s journey into the world of camps began at the age of 9, attending an arts camp in Maine where her fascination with photography and videography first ignited. Summers spent at her parents’ lake house further nurtured her love for the outdoors and water sports, shaping her into the passionate individual she is today. 

Coby pursued her education in Maine, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications New Media with a minor in Business Administration. Post-college, she ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing her own successful wedding photography/videography business while dedicating her weekdays to full-time work in development at a children’s advocacy center. This role deepened her conviction that every child deserves a carefree childhood. 

With several years of marketing and media experience under her belt, both through her own business and collaborations with others, her professional camp career began in her hometown. Here, she honed her skills in enrollment processes and discovered her desire to merge her passions and expertise in a meaningful way. 

Coby brings a unique perspective and extensive knowledge in showcasing the wonders of the outdoors to prospective campers and their families through social media. She also brings a furry companion, her dog Deshawn, who is excited to become a part of our camp community. 

Outside of work, Coby finds joy in water sports, hiking, movie nights, and spending quality time with Deshawn. She is eager to contribute to our camp’s growth, foster lasting relationships with our camp families, and enrich the lives of all who join us this summer. 

If you are looking to enroll your camper or have any questions about FLC send her and email or set up a call! 

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Of all the team members at FLC, Gary has by far the longest history at camp. Gary’s grandfather, Harold T. Confer, founded Forest Lake Camp in 1926 and was director until 1954 when Phil and Sally Confer took over. Gary’s parents ran FLC together for 32 years until he took over the directorship in 1986. Gary’s knowledge of camp history is second to none and we are grateful to have him as part of our full time team. He has come back to camp as groundskeeper and will help us keep FLC in tip-top shape through the year and during the summer. His calming presence on camp and encyclopedic brain about anything FLC is greatly appreciated by all.

Geoff is a second generation alumnus of Forest Lake Camp. His father Bob Blanck spent many summers at FLC in the 50’s and 60’s, and Geoff and his brother Rob were campers during the late 70’s and early 80’s. He spends as much of his summer as he can at FLC and is famous for leading the rain chant “Flee, Fly, Flo” at campfire each Sunday night to help us ward off rain clouds for the rest of the week. He lives in Waterbury, VT with his daughters Emma and Annecy who are both campers, and his wife Shalagh who runs the camp Store.

Tobin is an alumnus of Camp Tohkomeupog in Madison, New Hampshire where he spent 18 years as a camper, counselor and Head Counselor in addition to leading the alumni association for ten years. He has spent most of his career in the education and training field when not at camp. He comes to Forest Lake as much as he can over the summer to enjoy being surrounded by the spirit of a traditional summer camp and to get to know the Adirondacks. He lives in MA with his wife Margaret, son Quinn and daughter Kenzie who is a current FLC camper.