Empowering Success Together
Own The Coolest Summer Day Camp Around
Join the movement that’s transforming communities everywhere. With a Camp Mirage Franchise, you’re not just investing in the best summer ever; you’re enriching the lives of kids and their families.
Meet Our Franchise Team
The Camp Mirage franchise team is a passionate, multi-talented group dedicated to helping partners bring the joy of camp to communities nationwide. With backgrounds in communications, development, construction, education, and operations, each member brings a unique skill set to support franchise growth and success. From scouting new locations and training staff to remodeling flagship sites and providing on-call safety support, this team ensures every franchise reflects the heart and standards of Camp Mirage. Their deep knowledge of camp culture, hands-on experience, and commitment to excellence make them an invaluable resource for new and existing partners alike. Together, they champion our mission to create unforgettable experiences for kids and families across the country.
Cara Trost
FounderCara graduated with a degree in Journalism and Communications from Michigan State University. She worked her way up through various television newsrooms, starting as a production assistant, then progressing to writer, producer, and ultimately reporter. After her news career, Cara shifted gears and worked in Marketing and Ad Sales in Los Angeles for E! Entertainment TV. In 2000, a consulting job brought her back to Michigan, where she founded Camp Mirage. Cara saw the remarkable impact these programs had on kids and their families, and as a result, she has now dedicated her life to this passion. In 2024, Cara and her husband will begin franchising Camp Mirage across the United States, giving thousands of families the chance to experience this tremendous joy and success.
Jill Engel
Director of DevelopmentJill joined the Camp Mirage team in January 2025 as the Community Engagement Coordinator. In July 2025, she transitioned into a full-time role as Director of Development. Her responsibilities include assisting with site scouting, community relations, training support, and franchise sales, as well as ensuring Camp Mirage’s culture and core values are championed. Jill is personally and professionally committed to excellence in all aspects of performance, with an emphasis on building relationships and current methods to identify areas of improvement that will enhance best practices. Jill’s background includes 22 years in human resources, community relations, and nonprofit leadership. She met Camp Mirage Founder, Cara Trost, 25 years ago when they had the chance to work together. She is tremendously excited that their paths crossed again and that she has the opportunity to work with Cara once more on this incredible venture!
Jim Bullock
Field Sales ManagerJim is a former financial consultant and loan officer with an MBA from Eastern Michigan University. Jim is a jack of all trades with over 15 years of experience in construction and remodeling projects throughout the Metro Detroit area. Jim is a part-time Firefighter/EMT in Northville and opened Jimbo Contracting in 2026 to provide quality artistry while ensuring compliance with standards and regulations. Jim’s current product is remodeling our flagship location from top to bottom. Jim’s EMT experience provides Camp Mirage with on-call medical services and up-to-date training guides. Jim has held various positions in the Camp Mirage family for the last six years. Jim travels with our sales team to acquire new franchises.
Ezri Black
Franchise CoordinatorEzri started as a Camp Counselor with us years ago and has since moved up to Director of our North Territorial location. Ezri knows Camp Mirage! Besides her Director role, she’s taken a position as our Franchise Coordinator. Our franchises love communicating with Ezri, as she’s become the go-to for all things Camp Mirage!
Collin Caid
Field TrainerCollin has worked for Camp Mirage since 2017, starting as a Counselor and has since worked his way into Management. Everyone at our flagship location, kids and campers alike, knows and loves Collin, which makes him the perfect fit for a traveling Field Trainer for our Franchises, their Management, and Camp Counselors. In his free time, Collin enjoys playing Lacrosse and watching all Detroit sports.
Zach Taylor
Field TrainerZach started at Camp Mirage in the summer of 2018 and is the current Manager at our Camp Mirage North Territorial location. Zach attends Eastern Michigan University, studying to be an elementary school teacher. Being a part of Camp Mirage has allowed Zach to discover his love for working with children and has guided his career toward education. Zach travels to our franchises to train management and Camp Counselors. He’s known for his goofy shenanigans and strong management style.
Ready to join the family
Next Steps
Ready to bring the coolest camp to your community? Contact us now to get started. Our Franchise Development Team will follow up with you within the next business day to address your questions and determine if a Camp Mirage franchise is the right fit for you.