Champions for Children Breakfast 2025 Recap

The 22nd annual Champions for Children Breakfast brought together hundreds of community members to celebrate the power of our programs.

Where Kids Find Their Spark

At Camp K, “I become more me,” Caidyn Declouette shared at our 22^nd Annual Champions for Children Breakfast. A high school senior, she attended Operation Purple this past summer, a no-cost week of camp for military families. “It’s more than a summer camp,” she says. “It’s a place where I’ve learned to appreciate nature, build lasting friendships, and grow as a person.”

Joining her on stage, seated around a mock campfire, was Dave VanDusseldorp. Having attended Camp Fireweed since Kindergarten, the sixth grader said he’s learned a wide range of skills—from archery to swimming—but most importantly, the confidence to be himself. “‘I’ve grown a lot,” he said, “And something I’ve noticed about myself since going to camp is that when I’m playing with my friends, I am a lot happier.”

Their stories inspired a packed room of over 400 community members, partners, donors, and local leaders. Attendees learned about the power of Camp Fire’s programs to connect kids with nature, each other, and themselves.

At the Champions for Children Breakfast, Camp Fire Alaska CEO Mel Hooper (center) joins Dave Dusseldorp (left) and Caidyn Declouette (right) as they reflect on the life-changing experiences of camp.

Every Alaskan Benefits

“I sit in awe, listening to how carefully orchestrated programs and nurturing staff can create an undeniable sense of belonging—so young people can find their voice,” said Mel Hooper, Camp Fire Alaska CEO.

She also shared how far-reaching that impact is: “Across communities and across generations, reflected in our deep roots from rural Alaska to Anchorage, and built through meaningful connection with youth and families.”

The benefits touch every Alaskan. As local economist and Camp Fire parent Kevin Berry put it, “Childcare is essential infrastructure.”

When kids have access to high quality programs—where caring adults know their names and help them find their spark—they grow up to be healthier, happier, more productive community members.

Access to childcare also allows parents to work, as Camp Fire parent Nadia Shcheglova explained in the breakfast video presentation. “We were really surviving because we didn’t have any support,” Nadia said. But after enrolling her four kids in the program, she experienced relief.  “I’m engaged with my work,” she says, “because I know that my kids are engaged there [at Camp Fire]. Camp Fire is life changing for us.”

Thank You to those Who Make It Possible

Camp Fire’s programs are made possible by donors who invest in Alaska’s youth. Thanks to their incredible support, we raised over $225,000. Special thanks to Leo Bustad, Jeanne Davis, and Heather Flynn for pledging a generous matching gift of $35,000 to inspire attendees to give more at the breakfast.

If you want to become a champion for children, you can still donate here. Every dollar is an investment in Alaska’s future and transforms the lives of children and families today.

Photos from our 22nd Annual Champions for Children Breakfast

 

breakfast_2025_gallery-kevin-berry_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-welcome1_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-welcome2_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-table1_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-reese2_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-staff1_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-reese_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-mayor_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-kids-singing2_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-kids-singing_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-staff2_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-kids-group_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-tables2_2048

breakfast_2025_gallery-tables2_2048

breakfast_2025_kids-singing_2048