Camp Fire USA (formerly Campfire Girls)
is one of the nation's leading nonprofit youth development organizations
serving over 735,000 children and families. With headquarters in Kansas City, MO, Camp Fire USA provides all-inclusive,
coeducational programs in hundreds of communities across the United
States. Founded in 1910, Camp Fire USA's programs include youth leadership,
self-reliance, after school groups, camping and environmental education,
and child care. Camp Fire USA is
open to every person in the
community, including children, teenagers and
adults regardless of race,
religion, socioeconomic status, disability,
or any other aspect of
diversity. Camp Fire USA's programs are designed
to reduce stereotypes and
foster positive intercultural relationships.
The Epsilon Lambda Chapter of Gamma Phi Beta works with Camp Fletcher,
which is located in Birmingham, AL. Because the camp is so nearby (only
a
half-hour drive away!), the sisters are able to have a personal, hands-on
relationship with their philanthropy.
Camp Fletcher offers an excellent all-around camping experience. Boys
and girls ages 6 - 15 enjoy progressive camping encounters based on
age,
interests and skill levels. The camp boasts 277 acres of rolling woodland,
pine trees, a creek, hiking trails, tent
area, large and small cabins,
dining hall, swimming pool and Project Adventure. Camp Fletcher also hosts
special events throughout the year. For example, the Pumpkin Patch Retreat
is a time during the fall season when campers come out for the night and
camp out in the pumpkin patch. Another annual event is the Family Retreat,
when the campers come out with their parents and spend the time together
doing a number of fun activities. During last year's Family Retreat, the
campers made hand-painted flower pots for their families. At the end of
every visit at Camp Fletcher, there is a closing ceremony to celebrate all
of the wonderful achievements the campers have made during their stay.
Camp Fletcher provides many opportunities for Gamma Phi's to help
out. We can come as often as we like and are currently planning several
events for
the summer and fall. Some sisters even work as counselors at Camp Fletcher
during their summer break! Members who are interested in community
service
have the chance to experience first-hand all of the leadership opportunities
and fun-filled activities that Camp Fletcher provides.
Each year, our chapter holds two major philanthropy events. In the fall, we have a Teeter-Totter-a-Thon that lasts 48 hours straight! It's a unique event and a lot of fun! Local businesses and other UA greek organizations help us raise money for Campfire USA by sponsoring members to teeter-totter.
For more information about Camp Fire USA,
see their official website at www.campfireusa.org
Camp Fletcher's site is at www.campfire-al.org/campfletcher.htm
