Beginning in 2017, the Center for Family Justice, in partnership with the Coastal Connecticut YMCA and Camp Hi-Rock, will launch Camp HOPE Connecticut, the first summer camp and mentoring program for children impacted by domestic and sexual violence and child abuse in New England. Camp HOPE pairs a traditional, overnight summer camp experience with a clinically-proven, national model for addressing the physical and emotional trauma these children have faced.
Surrounded by Massachusetts’ Berkshires beside a tranquil lake, and staffed by specially-trained counselors, the camp will provide 25-50 children and teens with a safe, supportive environment, where they can learn how to overcome obstacles, improve self-esteem and become more emotionally resilient. It is also designed as a place where kids can also take the time to just be kids, enjoying a variety of activities from hiking and swimming to sailing and jet-skiing — an experience many of them have never had.
Above all, Camp HOPE works. A recent published study has shown that children who experienced the Camp HOPE model, first offered at camps in California and Oregon, left with a greater sense of optimism, gratitude, social intelligence and self-esteem. This is hope personified: it changed the way the children see themselves and their futures.
To offer Camp HOPE free of charge to deserving children and teens from Bridgeport, Fairfield, Monroe, Stratford, Trumbull and Easton, the CFJ is grateful for donor support. Please visit our donations page for more information and help us continue to provide hope for these worthy kids.
