Summer camp gives kids the opportunity to gain independence and confidence as well as learn new life skills. If you ask a camper what they like about camp, 95% of them will say something about being allowed to “be themselves”. This is the result of a carefully crafted culture that is accepting of all, diverse in nature, and built on the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Our nationally-known resident camp program provides youth ages 7-16 with an opportunity to feel a part of something bigger than themselves. Campers learn that every challenge is easier when you are confident in who you are as a person, and that this confidence comes from knowing you are truly cared about by more than just your immediate family.
Parents tell us all the time “my child came home a different person”. We hear countless stories about how their kids have a renewed sense of self, that they are more willing to take on responsibilities and challenges both at school and at home. Nothing will do more for a young person’s self-esteem than allowing them to discover a “natural talent”. A wide variety of activities and a culture that encourages trying new things makes for many opportunities to discover one’s own gifts.
Kids leave Camp Jewell with more self-confidence, more resiliency, and with more of an understanding of themselves. We have been doing it for well over a hundred years, and we will be doing it for the next hundred years too.