HOPE for Kids is an organization which has harnessed the compassion of staff and volunteers to foster environmental, character, health and leadership training in the youth camping experiences over the past 20 years.

Camp HOPE for Kids is a place where lives are changed as we connect with one another and with nature’s miracles. We are committed to environmental education and developing a spirit of environmental stewardship in each of our campers as well as our staff through Camp HOPE for Kids’ three programs: R Camp and Teen Camp, Camp Miracles, and Summer Matters: The Swamp Creek Environmental Collaborative.

---

R Camp and Teen Camp

Camp HOPE for Kids provides week-long overnight summer camps for typical, suburban youth ages 8-18. HOPE for Kids provides the opportunity for these children to learn spiritual, emotional and character building values as natures’ miracles are explored. Daily activities include: sports, arts and crafts, swimming, rock climbing, devotionals, and other fun-filled activities. Camp Miracles and Summer Matters are integrated into the activities throughout the summer, teaching unity and diversity to all children at Camp HOPE for Kids.

---

 Camp Miracles

The summer program allows youth from North Philadelphia who participate in the Saturday Academy to unite with those who come from more fortunate economic backgrounds. Over the years, we have witnessed countless friendships blossom between privileged and underprivileged youth as they develop skills together necessary for thriving adulthood.

Program participants, ages 8 to 18, are assigned to a college student who works directly alongside them as a mentor throughout activities and lessons. Over time, we have watched our campers grow to become mentors, attend college, attain employment, and emerge as leaders in their own communities. We build community and provide a safe place.

---

 Summer Matters: The Swamp Creek Environmental Collaborative

The Swamp Creek Environmental Collaborative was born through our partnership with Valley Forge Educational Services (VFES, aka The Vanguard School). The Collaborative shares a commitment to reach out and teach economically, academically and emotionally at-risk youth and young adults to be environmental stewards.

Based out at Camp HOPE for Kids, which is located on a wooded lot with a river-fed lake and abundant wildlife, the Collaborative aims to encourage youth to become environmental stewards. Via experiential, place-based learning, we encourage Camp participants to make active choices that promote environmental sustainability. The program is held in nature’s outdoor classroom and gives youth the opportunity to experience nature in a safe environment, while building friendships with each other.

---