At the Y, we believe in the power of camp. Summer camp gives children and teens connection, activity, mentors, confidence, resilience and safe spaces while their parents work. It helps prevent summer learning loss and supports language skills during the school break. And for children in trauma, like those impacted by the Marshall Fire, summer camp provides an opportunity for healing, recovery and much-needed fun.

Camp allows kids to be kids.

Each summer, hundreds of children and teens attend YMCA Camp Santa Maria. For many, their summer camp experiences are only made possible because of donor-funded financial assistance. Last year, we provided $254,000 in financial assistance to ensure all children and teens had the opportunity to boost independence and resilience while at YMCA Camp Santa Maria.

We believe all young people deserve sunshine, silliness, fresh air and bug bites (yes, even bug bites). We believe all children should have the opportunity to build gnome homes, cannonball into a sun-sparkling pool and come home exhausted, dirty and elated. We believe children need support to work through trauma, access to mentors who have training in social-emotional learning and programs that restore their emotional and physical health. We believe families need a partner in parenting all year long (not just when school is in session).

Make these programs (and so much more!) possible. Donate today!