Camp To Welcome Nearly 250 LGBTQ Youth From Across The Country
One Valley nonprofit is doing its part to see that even more members of the country’s young LGBTQ community have access to the resources, workshops and mentorships needed to support and empower, not only themselves, but generations to come.
Camp OUTdoors, the LGBTQ summer camp put on by one•n•ten, will host two sessions this summer for the first time in the camp’s history, giving nearly 250 youth and young adults access to not only traditional summer camp activities that encourage leadership, team building and a sense of community, but also life-changing, and in some instances life-saving, workshops on topics that disproportionately impact LGBTQ youth, such as suicide, dysphoria and self-esteem.
Founded in 2008, Camp OUTdoors typically serves an average of 150 campers each year, but this year’s two sessions will welcome an additional 100 campers, who will enjoy both traditional camp activities (think ropes courses, drum circles, and kayaking) and up to 50 educational workshops covering everything from LGBTQ history to self-expression through creative writing and storytelling.
“LGBTQ youth often struggle to be themselves in traditional summer camps because most camps do not have policies and procedures in place to ensure a safe and affirming environment for LGBTQ campers.” said Kado Stewart, the founder of Camp OUTdoors and the program director for one•n•ten. “Camp OUTdoors provides a safe, empowering environment, where LGBTQ youth are celebrated and able to be authentically themselves. It’s the type of place where campers can develop their self-confidence, build lasting friendships and feel a sense of community that many have never felt at another camp, or anywhere else.”
In addition to helping campers build upon their leadership skills, Camp OUTdoors also gives returning campers an opportunity to take on leadership roles by becoming a counselor in training. The Counselors in Training program gives youth between the ages of 20 and 24 an opportunity to facilitate activities and help campers further develop their communication and leadership skills.
Currently, programs and workshops available at Camp OUTdoors run the gamut from arts, education and humanities-focused offerings to those encouraging physical fitness, movement and an appreciation for the great outdoors. All programs and workshops offered seek to help campers broaden their knowledge and skill sets while giving them the freedom to be themselves in a safe, affirming setting.
“I was living my life behind a closed door,” said Ryan Yonts, a Camp OUTdoors camper from Lexington, Kentucky. “Taking my first trip to Arizona two years ago was the best decision I have ever made. It was the first place I could openly say I am gay, and the whole room showered me with love and support by cheering and clapping. It’s an experience I will never forget.”
