Modern families often experience isolation; however, ParentCamp is working to rebuild community connections, one school at a time. On today’s episode of The Small Business Show, Julie Pile, co-founder and president, and Laura Gilchrist, co-founder and vice-president, share how they’re transforming communities by connecting students, parents and teachers in meaningful ways.
Modern families are facing an alarming increase in isolation in their communities. Many parents do not know their neighbors or other parents whose children attend the same schools. In many cases, interactions with teachers are limited to scheduled parent-teacher conferences. This severe lack of connectivity prevents the formation of the support networks essential to the well-being of students, families and communities.
"ParentCamp is the time and space to connect with other parents, educators, and community members, and to find a safe space to be yourself, authentic and vulnerable." — Julie Pile
ParentCamp rebuilds communities by creating structured, intentional spaces for relationship building. Parents, educators, and community members participate in guided discussions focused on shared struggles and lived experiences. These sessions foster connection, build a sense of belonging, reduce isolation and encourage repeat participation.
The company was founded in 2016 and was recently recognized as a top Disruptor on the Chamber of Commerce’s CO-100 list, which honors the most innovative and impactful small businesses in the U.S.
Starting a business does not always require prior experience in that industry. Before launching ParentCamp, Pile was a CPA who worked in higher education, the oil industry and a law firm. She was also actively involved in her children’s schools, volunteering frequently. During her time as PTA president, she witnessed firsthand the impact of a principal who prioritized family engagement and the transformative power of a strong, engaged community. She wanted to bring that same sense of community to other schools.
"ParentCamp is the time and space to connect with other parents, educators, and community members, and to find a safe space to be yourself, authentic and vulnerable." — Julie Pile
Gilchrist is a former teacher who taught over 2,000 students during her career. Her passion for creating connections stems from her personal experience of growing up in an unstable home, where she lacked a strong familial and community support network. Reflecting on her teaching career, she realized that meaningful parent-teacher connections were rare but immensely powerful. She aimed to make these connections the norm rather than the exception.
Together, Pile and Gilchrist combine complementary skill sets that merge the parent and teacher perspectives necessary to advance ParentCamp’s mission.
For entrepreneurs aiming to disrupt an industry, authenticity is key to building relationships. Strong, genuine connections create support networks that provide guidance, encouragement and opportunities organically.
Looking ahead, Pile and Gilchrist plan to scale ParentCamp by expanding its network of local coaches embedded in school communities. Rather than franchising, the organization hires coaches to work directly with schools, attend community meetings and connect families with local resources. Year-long contracts ensure programs are fully integrated into school culture, allowing ParentCamp to grow sustainably while maintaining consistent quality and impact across communities.
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