Discover sparks, gain self-confidence, and learn life-changing life skills to thrive now. Thrive{ology} is our research-based program framework founded on the pillars of Social Emotional Learning (SEL), and it works.
Any kid or teen, from any kind of family, from any walk of life, is welcome at Camp Fire. We have an official Inclusion Policy and are outspoken about our long-time commitment to diversity.
Supportive mentors and adult champions are key. We call our highly trained staff “Spark Champions,” because they are experts at what they do and know how to guide youth on their journey to thriving.
Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation (August 2021) “With schools closed during the pandemic, an alliance of nonprofit leaders showed quiet heroics by taking the risk to set up learning centers without funding in place, or an end in sight.” https://www.kauffman.org/currents/out-of-school-time-collaborative-covid-19/
National Afterschool Alliance (July 2021) House Afterschool Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives David Cicilline and Don Young will speak to the importance of strong federal support for afterschool and summer learning programs and the impact programs have on local communities. Following remarks… Read More >
“Last summer, when it became clear that K-12 schools across Kansas City, Missouri, would have to teach virtually due to the pandemic, Erin Balleine sprung into action to create an out-of-school program so children weren’t left in the lurch.” https://youthtoday.org/2021/07/even-with-a-windfall-of-new-funding-afterschool-programs-face-challenges/
National Afterschool Alliance (February 2021) “As schools began shutting their doors and moving to virtual classrooms last spring, afterschool programs and youth development organizations stepped up to help students and families with access to the internet, learning support, meals, and… Read More >
Nonprofit Connect https://www.npconnect.org/2021-luncheon/
Hall Family Foundation Annual Report “New Ways of Learning in Changing Times” https://www.hallfamilyfoundation.org/annual-reports/
Young people want to shape the world.
Camp Fire provides the opportunity to find their spark, lift their voice, and discover who they are.
In Camp Fire, it begins now.