Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Wilderness summer camp programs provide a unique opportunity in youth development. Historically, these types of highly impactful enrichment experiences have been reserved for families with significant financial means. A THOUSAND SUMMERS’ primary mission is to bridge that financial gap and make camp accessible to youth who otherwise would not be able to attend. At the same time, we are committed to serving youth who represent the full breadth of diverse backgrounds. This means partnering with camp programs that invite people not simply to “fit in” with the spoken and unspoken cultural norms of those who have historically been represented at summer camp, but to feel a deep sense of belonging. We strive to ensure that each participant is valued for who they are and what they bring to the summer program they join.
103,664
hours of youth programming
delivered in 2025
$1,032,800
of program services
provided this year
78%
program
re-engagement rate
1,933
program awards
issued
Testimonials
“Having such amazing role models really allowed me to become the best version of myself by learning from them.”
– Molly
“Camp taught me to be responsible, respectable, independent, and empathetic.”
– Eric
“Camp has shown me many new things. This makes me wonder what else is out there to discover and learn.”
– Adejisola
News & Events
At A Thousand Summers we are thrilled to be able to provide the gift of summer camp to amazing kids around the country. As our campers return year aft...
At A Thousand Summers we try to capture photos and testimonials about the young people we serve while they are at camp or involved in our other progra...
Camp is about fun, friends, and activities, but it also is a fantastic opportunity for social-emotional growth. Many years ago, Frank Cheley, the foun...
Dear A Thousand Summers, As Thanksgiving approaches, I have been thinking about what I’m thankful for and my time at camp is near the top of the lis...
We are excited to announce that the first year of the ATS Outdoor Leadership Program was a big success! Seven of our former campership recipients spen...
Happy summer! I hope you are enjoying the outdoors and taking part in some summer camp-type activities of your own. Whether that’s doing some hiking...
Summer camp is an incredible experience for children of all ages. It’s a chance to unplug from technology, make new friends, learn new skills, and e...
Scholarship recipients share how camp has changed their lives......
Camp is a place for people to ‘try on’ different personalities and leadership styles. We want to teach young men and women that they can indeed be...