Dear __________,
At Camp Fire, we know that every child has a story to tell. Our work is dedicated to helping youth discover the best in themselves, creating opportunities to thrive, and hosting programs that cultivate joy within the natural world. As a donor, you are an integral part of each child’s Camp Fire story. It’s impossible for us to share them all, but we invite you to climb aboard the camp bus and ride along with one of our favorite summer memories...
At 1:54 P.M., Antonio claims a seat on the camp bus. From the second he hugs his father goodbye, he doesn’t stop talking. This is his third year at camp, and he has some pretty serious opinions about things. His topics of expertise range from preferred camp dinners, to canoe tipping, to a very sincere feeling that for this year’s upcoming skit, he feels prepared to humbly accept the director’s position.
The boy Antonio sits next to regards him in silence. “So, what do you think?” Antonio prompts.
A counselor swivels around from the aisle ahead of the boys to say, “Antonio, this is Ben. He doesn’t speak, but he understands everything you’re saying.”
Ben nods to demonstrate this. Antonio puffs out his chest. “That won’t be a problem,” he announces. “My teachers told me I talk too much.”
Ben flashes a thumbs-up. The two spend the entire bus ride in a discussion about football.
From that moment on, Ben and Antonio are inseparable. As a joined coalition, they demand to be bunkmates. With a counselor’s permission, they carry around a notepad so the two can pass notes and, of course, draw lots of dragons. They spend their first day of camp zooming through activities, giggling with their new tribe.
Over the following week, Ben waits for Antonio when his asthma drags Antonio’s legs to lag during their hike up Mt. Slaughter. Ben even acts relieved for the break to spare his new friend’s feelings. The two of them form other friendships and learn new things about themselves. Ben, who had never even considered going on stage, stars in Antonio’s play.
On the second night, when their cabin huddles to share their reflections for the day, Antonio asks Ben, “How do you sign for ‘Thank you?’”
Ben shows him. One hand touches his mouth, then falls down smoothly, palm up. The cabin, boys and counselors alike, repeat the gesture. Thank you.
At the farewell breakfast, Ben agrees to stand before the entire camp and lead everyone in giving thanks with their hands. This particular thank you is for the camp cooks. As the camp follows Ben’s example, the memory of this moment lodges in each camper’s heart.
One of these boys attended camp on a scholarship. Perhaps it was Ben, perhaps Antonio — it doesn’t matter. Both needed to be present for their friendship to blossom.
At Camp Fire, we know the memories forged during summer camp are some of the most precious and formative of a youth’s experience, and we believe that the more children able to experience it, the better. It’s a fact that summer camp teaches campers about empathy, integrity, and personal bravery. The impact on youth who have fewer opportunities is even more powerful.
Last year, 156 campers were able to attend camp because of Camp Fire’s Campership Fund. This year we would like to send even more kids to camp!
Here’s how you can help: your gift of $380 gives a child the opportunity to experience our overnight camp. A gift of $285 enables a child to attend a week of day camp.
Your support, in any amount, is greatly needed and deeply appreciated. Submit the enclosed envelope with your tax-deductible gift today, or make a donation using our secure online donation form at www.campfireak.org. We have kids waiting to pack their bags!
Thank you so much for your support and generosity.
Sincerely,
Barbara Dubovich
CEO, Camp Fire Alaska