Camp CHRIS

Camp CHRIS is a free, nine-week summer day camp for children and youth ages 5-17 with behavioral or emotional issues that prevent them from attending other “mainstream” summer camps. CK provides a 1:3 staff to child ratio to ensure each camper receives the support needed to engage in developmentally appropriate project-based learning/apprenticeship activities. Through our partnership with Bright from the Start, we provide two warm meals each day. We also provide round trip transportation to limit barriers for participation.  Campers are generally referred to the program by the Department of Juvenile Justice, Juvenile Courts, and Department of Family and Children's Services.  

Campers learn the value of setting goals, community service, and working as a team. They receive recognition for a variety of accomplishments in addition to a certificate of participation.  Children and youth set and achieve goals, compete fairly, cope with achievement and failure, and resolve disputes peacefully. Research shows that improved self-esteem and healthy lifestyle choices correlate with academic success. Camp CHRIS works to improve academic skills and increases interest in education and career opportunities, enhances self-esteem, and promotes the development of positive values and coping skills.

The ultimate goal is to prepare our children and youth to one day attend “mainstream” camp while also ensuring caregivers/parents maintain uninterrupted employment throughout the summer months.