Camp Dates
Fraser, CO
Ages of Campers
Attending camp is beneficial for people of all ages. We firmly believe that introducing an adopted child to their birth culture and connecting them with other adoptees who have similar backgrounds can be done at any stage of life. Whether a child is in preschool or high school, attending camp will help them develop a strong sense of identity and belonging.
Our workshops are led by individuals from the same cultural background as the children, eager to impart knowledge about their heritage to our campers. Our dedicated counselors accompany the kids throughout the day, offering essential support and serving as role models for our campers during the entire camp.
2 Years and Under
We begin with our child care program complete with culturally relevant toys, videos, and activities for toddlers. Parent volunteers work in the child care room with our 2 year olds and younger during designated workshop times, so that parents of the infants may attend parent workshops if they choose. You are always welcome to keep your infant/toddler with you during camp, but we then ask you not to bring your little one to the parent workshops.
PeK-Kindergarten
Our campers begin at age 3 (if they are potty trained) in our PreK program. This program has built-in rest time, and is organized so that camp workshops and activities come to the kids, similar to a protective preschool environment. We emphasize cultural experiences that are age appropriate for our Pre/K group.
Some of the favorite workshops and activities for this age group are storytelling, complete with puppets and/or costumes, learning to “cook” with play ethnic foods and kitchens, singing children’s songs from their birth heritage, playing games, and dancing. This age group visits our “cultural village” at many camps, which is a hands-on cultural experience for all ages. Children in this age group also participate in our Elementary Signature Programs.
Elementary, 1st Grade – 5th Grade
Our comprehensive program for elementary-age children is designed to provide age-appropriate and enjoyable activities. We are dedicated to creating an immersive and memorable learning experience, offering various take-home items such as art projects or insights into cultural traditions like family customs and culinary practices.
Campers often share their newfound knowledge with their schools, religious communities, scouting groups, and loved ones, spreading awareness and pride in their heritage and in being adopted. Popular workshops for this age group involve crafting culturally significant items, cooking traditional dishes, playing games, singing songs or musical instruments, learning dances, and performing stories or plays from their culture. Similar to the Pre/K group, children aged 6-10 also get to explore our interactive “cultural village” at many camps for a hands-on cultural immersion. Children in this age group also participate in our Elementary Signature Programs.
Middle School, 6th Grade – 8th Grade
During pre-adolescence, children undergo crucial identity development. Camp participation during this stage aids adoptees in building self-esteem and connection to their origins, reducing feelings of isolation. The focus is on fostering teamwork and forming strong relationships within this age group. Activities range from canoeing, ropes courses, and outdoor games to advanced art projects, music sessions, martial arts, dance classes, and exploring cultural traditions linked to their heritage. Our middle school campers also participate in our Middle School Signature Programs.
High School, 9th Grade-12th Grade
High school students are still navigating their identity and yearning for a sense of belonging among their cultural group and fellow adoptees. Our high school program offers team-building activities to foster strong connections with peers who share similar experiences. Students enjoy engaging in various workshops and activities such as white water rafting, ropes courses, outdoor team games, advanced art projects, musical experiences, martial arts, dancing, and exploring traditions linked to their cultural heritage. Our high school campers also participate in our High School Signature Program.
Adult Adoptee Programming, 18+ Years
After high school graduation, the camp experience continues with chances to participate in Adult Adoptee programs and events at any of our nine annual camps. Graduates can also opt to become a counselor, a presenter, or volunteer at the camp. Learn more about adult adoptee opportunities here.