Operation Camp

Camps and camping opportunities continue to be one of Armed Services YMCA’s most popular programs. This fun and educational program – which includes day and residential camps – encourages healthy living and recreation.

Children Served:

2019: 11,800
2018: 10,200

Program Overview

While camping includes the s’mores and campfires, it also provides opportunities for military children to make meaningful connections. For military children, who may face moving to a new city, state and school every two to three years, these friendships, support networks and memories last a lifetime.

Operation Camp focuses on:

Building confidence and enhances self image
Improving social skills that reflect age-appropriate behavior
Teaching conflict resolution and healthy management and expression of anger
Increasing bonds with family and friends
Equipping military children and families with tools and resources to cope with the challenges of military life

Impact

Operation Camp is a great way to introduce military children to programs and services offered at your local ASYMCA branch. One day, one week, holiday and residential camps can be that life-changing experience youth need to thrive and cope with the changes that come with growing up in a military family.

“My daughter was fortunate to experience camp and the benefits of one day, let alone a week, are huge in her world right now. With all the challenges our kids face, this helped her tremendously with her coping skills and self-esteem issues she’s currently having. She was provided with many tools and resources she can use now and in the future.” – military parent

Locations

Many of the ASYMCA locations offer Operation Camp. To see what opportunities may be available in your area, find your local branch.

Opportunity

The Armed Services YMCA is committed to expanding camps and camping, as they are the most requested programs by troops and their families. There is consistently more demand for youth to attend camps, but unfortunately we are unable to grant every request. Donate now.

Nakoah's Story

See how Operation Camp helped Nakoah create new friendships, gain an increased sense of responsibility and find support in his journey as a military child.