Every child deserves camp, but cost is often a barrier. Each summer, thanks to the support of our corporate and community partners, as well as individual donors, Camp Fire provides free or low-cost camp experiences for hundreds of children.

In 2026, through Camp Fire’s Inclusion Fund, donors provided nearly $300,000 in scholarships and free community programs, representing over 1,100 sessions of camp.

One family shared that without a scholarship, after a difficult time for their family, their daughter would not have otherwise been able to go to camp. “She really deserved to have this chance to just go be a kid,” they said, “as well as meet new friends and learn new skills.”

 

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Tom Martin, Director of Camp K, shared a story of two campers from a refugee family. They began the week quiet and stoic, like there was an invisible wall between them and the magic of camp. But as the week went on, Tom saw them become “goofy and silly” and participating in more camp activities.

“That was such a special moment,” Tom said, “being able to see in real time a stress or a weight lift off of a kid, who has had to deal with some things that a teenager shouldn’t have to deal with, start to smile more and laugh more and just be a teenager that doesn’t have a care in the world.”

Youth at Loussac Place, one of three Community Program locations this summer, had the chance to sharpen their archery skills thanks to Alaska Fish & Wildlife staff.

Back in the city, Camp Fire’s Summer Adventure Camp operated three Community Programs. Held at Muldoon Elementary, Tyson Elementary, and Cook Inlet Housing’s Loussac Place, these programs provide free day camp experiences.

Jamal Robinson, a Site Leader who played a role in each of the Community Programs, shared that there was strong sense of camaraderie between the staff and youth at Loussac. “The children were able to fully immerse themselves in programming,” he said, “and have healthy conflict resolutions and lead activities together. I feel like the children that don’t usually get see or have their voice heard were able to do just that in these programs.”

From single camperships to entire programs provided at no cost to participants, none of it would be possible without the support of our community. A parent put it best when she shared that their child gained confidence, made new friends, and enjoyed every moment of camp. “Thank you so much investing in her,” the parent said, “and for making this experience possible.”

 

THANK YOU

ConocoPhillips Alaska

First National Bank Alaska

Global Credit Union

Matson

Northrim Bank

Rain Proof Roofing

United Way of Anchorage

And many generous individual donors

 

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