Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Wilderness summer camp programs provide a unique opportunity in youth development. Historically, these types of highly impactful enrichment experiences have been reserved for families with significant financial means. A THOUSAND SUMMERS’ primary mission is to bridge that financial gap and make camp accessible to youth who otherwise would not be able to attend. At the same time, we are committed to serving youth who represent the full breadth of diverse backgrounds. This means partnering with camp programs that invite people not simply to “fit in” with the spoken and unspoken cultural norms of those who have historically been represented at summer camp, but to feel a deep sense of belonging. We strive to ensure that each participant is valued for who they are and what they bring to the summer program they join.
84,672
hours of youth programming
delivered in 2023
$728,850
of direct program services
provided this year
78%
program
re-engagement rate
1,640
camperships & fellowships
awarded
Testimonials
“I made so many friends at camp! I know boys from all over the world and we are all different but also the same. I can be friends with others who are not like me and learn from knowing them. I LOVE being in nature. I feel free. It is my happy place.”
– Solomon
“At camp you do so many amazing activities and being with your friends really helps build your confidence. Whether you’re riding horses or climbing a mountain, it really opens up your mindset and you realize you can do hard things.”
– Lulu
“Being in camp, I am given the opportunity to choose my own activities. I have the option of challenge by choice and how much I want to go out of my comfort zone. All of this has helped me become more independent and confident in my choices.”
– Chloe
News & Events
Summer camp is an incredible experience for children of all ages. It’s a chance to unplug from technology, make new friends, learn new skills, and e...
Scholarship recipients share how camp has changed their lives......
Camp is a place for people to ‘try on’ different personalities and leadership styles. We want to teach young men and women that they can indeed be...
A Thousand Summers partners with youth mentoring organizations around the country to recruit amazing young people for our programs. Columbia County Hu...
Summer camp is an incredible experience for children of all ages. It’s a chance to unplug from technology, make new friends, learn new skills, and e...
Campers share why being able to attend camp is such an extraordinary experience....
We are pleased to share our Spring 2023 Newsletter featuring our brand new Camp Fellowship Program as well as information about our newest Associate C...
Alisa shares how attending camp gave her a summer of firsts…...
