Causes: Camps, Children & Youth, Sports, Youth Development Programs

Mission: To provide low-income and foster girls, ages 6-16, from urban and rural areas of New York and New England with a unique sleep away camping experience. Our campers are encouraged to explore new and challenging activities, allowing them to develop a strong sense of self and trust in others.

Results: During the past twenty four years, more than 6,150 girls have benefitted from The Summer Camp’s activities and camaraderie. In 1986, The Summer Camp operated its first camp session for 35 girls from New York City and Western Massachusetts. The next year, The Summer Camp expanded to 120 campers at two donated sites. In 1988, we added a Hiking and Canoeing program for returning campers, ages 12 and 13.By 1989, The Summer Camp operated four sessions at three camps for 180 girls. That year we introduced a Literacy program to help enhance the reading, writing and computer skills of each of our Summer Campers. The following year, we expanded The Summer Camp’s programs to include a two-week Leadership Training program and a Winter Camp for returning campers. In 2002, we added our Counselor -in- Training program. Each year, our summer program includes nearly 350 girls, of which more than 50% are returning campers.

Target demographics: Low-income and foster girls, ages 6-16, from urban and rural areas of New York and New England

Direct beneficiaries per year: 350

Geographic areas served: Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island

Programs: The summer camp operates an overnight camp program designed to provide innercity and rural girls from low income and foster families with a residential camping experience. Many campers attend the program.