What is Camp HOPE?
Camp HOPE America is the first evidence-based camping and mentoring program for children exposed to trauma in the United States. Our goal is to give children and teens their childhood back and help them find a Pathway to HOPE. Our vision is to break the generational cycle of family violence by offering healing and hope to children and adults who have witnessed and been impacted by family violence.
About Our Campers
To be eligible for Camp, a child must meet the following requirments:
- Witnessed and have been impacted by family violence
- Camper (and /or parent or guardian) must be receiving services at Palomar or one of our partnering agencies
- Between the ages of 8 and 16
- Nonviolent towards others
ACE scores are determined through a ten-question form that touches on various types of abuse that a child may have experienced prior to turning 18.
Camp kids are at a critical crossroads in their lives: soon their small bodies will grow and they could potentially use them to hurt others. Statistically, 78% of kids from violent homes will grow up and hurt their partner(s) and/or children. If they don’t have a positive intervention and learn alternatives to violence, their futures could be very dark and destructive. Camp HOPE helps kids change how their story ends by breaking the cycle of generational violence.
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What We Do
At Camp HOPE, we use fun-filled avenues to bring HOPE into campers’ lives. At camp, we discuss important life lessons such as the value of forgiveness, the future is brighter than the past, and that we all need each other. Campers learn about role models who have overcome difficult times and chosen to do good things with their lives. Campers are challenged with trust and team-building exercises such as rock climbing and yoga and empowered with character trait awards. Using meaningful activities, we create an environment where kids feel safe, seen, encouraged, and loved.
History of Camp HOPE America Palomar
Palomar was proud to partner with Camp HOPE America to launch its inaugural camp for kids in 2016.
2019: HOPE Rising
Campers were encouraged to push through their goals and pursue a pathway to see their hope rise.
- June 2-7
- 55 children, ages 8-16
- 31 counselors
2017: Rooted
Campers were reminded that, like trees, they had the power to change the direction in which their “roots” grew.
- June 4-10
- 45 children, ages 8-16
- 15 counselors
2018: Ignite Your Dreams
Campers discussed their passions and pursuing their dreams for a better future.
- June 17-23
- 56 children, ages 8-16
- 24 counselors
2016: Masterpiece Restored
Campers learned that they were unique masterpieces with special gifts and abilities.
- July 24-30
- 29 children, ages 7-11
- 13 counselors
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