We are excited to announce our plans to establish a summer camp specifically for LGBTQIA+ children and youth, as well as other transgender and non-binary youth. This camp will provide a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where participants can build confidence, form lasting friendships, and engage in a variety of enriching activities.
What the Camp is About
The camp offers a dedicated space for LGBTQIA+ children and youth, ensuring a safe and supportive atmosphere.
Activities and Support
• Counseling Sessions: Supporting emotional and mental well-being.
• Group Activities: Including arts, sports, and team-building exercises to foster camaraderie and self-expression.
• Workshops: On self-acceptance, gender identity, and resilience.
Purpose of Creation
The camp is being developed to help youth navigate unique challenges such as societal acceptance and personal identity struggles. It aims to build a community where attendees can find understanding, acceptance, and support from peers and counselors.
Areas Covered:
Camp Unity & Pride will serve LGBTQIA+ youth in Windsor and the surrounding areas, including:
• City of Windsor
• Essex County
• Tecumseh
• LaSalle
• Lakeshore
• Amherstburg
• Kingsville
• Leamington
• Pelee Island
Programs and Activities
• Arts and Crafts: Encouraging creativity and self-expression.
• Sports and Team-Building: Promoting physical health and teamwork.
• Workshops on Social Justice and Identity: Educating and empowering campers.
• Traditional Camp Activities: Swimming, archery, and nature hikes.
Impact on Families and Children
• Parents: Highlight the camp as a place for family acceptance and shared experiences, emphasizing its importance in discussing significant decisions like hormone blockers.
• Children: Express relief and happiness about delaying male or female puberty through blockers, find solace and friendship at camp despite societal struggles, and experience joy and acceptance, finding friends who understand them.
A Call for Support
Your support is crucial in making this dream a reality. Donations, volunteer efforts, and community partnerships are all essential for the development and success of our summer camp. Together, we can create a memorable and impactful experience for LGBTQIA+ children and youth.
To make this dream a reality, we need to raise funds to cover our annual recurring costs:
• Recruitment and Training of Staff: $10,000 (estimated based on typical camp staff costs)
• Program Materials: $3,000 (for arts, crafts, sports, and educational workshops)
• Events and Workshops: $12,000 (includes guest speakers, special events, and workshop materials)
• Medical Staff: $12,800 (includes salaries for nurses and paramedics)
• Operational Costs: $20,000 (includes administrative expenses, utilities, and maintenance)
• Summer Campground Rental: $35,000 (based on information from similar facilities such as Kiwanis Sunshine Point Camp)
• Insurance Costs: $7,500 (average of estimated range)
Total Annual Recurring Costs: $100,300
Buffer for Recurring Costs (10%): $10,030
Annual Fundraising Goal: $110,330
Based on the information gathered, here is an estimated breakdown of the insurance costs for Camp Unity & Pride in Windsor, Ontario:
1. General Liability Insurance
- Covers bodily injury and property damage.
- Costs typically range from $1,500 to $3,000 annually for coverage up to $2 million.
2. Property Insurance
- Includes coverage for camp buildings, contents, and equipment.
- Costs generally range from $1,000 to $2,500 annually, depending on the value of the property and equipment.
3. Accident Insurance
- Covers medical expenses for injuries sustained by campers and staff.
- Estimated costs are around $500 to $1,000 annually.
4. Professional Liability Insurance
- Provides coverage for counselors, nurses, and other professional staff against claims of negligence or malpractice.
- Costs typically range from $500 to $1,500 annually.
5. Abuse and Molestation Insurance
- Provides coverage against claims of sexual abuse or molestation.
- Costs can range from $1,000 to $2,500 annually, depending on the number of campers and staff.
6. Umbrella Liability Insurance
- Provides additional liability coverage beyond the limits of general liability.
- Costs generally range from $800 to $1,500 annually for additional coverage up to $10 million.
Based on these figures, the total estimated annual insurance costs for Camp Unity & Pride could range from $5,300 to $10,000.
Given the additional insurance costs, here is an updated budget that includes these estimates:
• Recruitment and Training of Staff: $10,000
• Program Materials: $3,000
• Events and Workshops: $12,000
• Medical Staff: $12,800
• Operational Costs: $20,000
• Summer Campground Rental: $35,000
• Insurance Costs: $7,500 (average of estimated range)
Total Annual Recurring Costs: $100,300
Buffer for Recurring Costs (10%): $10,030
Annual Fundraising Goal: $110,330
To cover the first two years, the total fundraising goal would be:
• First Year: $110,330
• Second Year: $110,330
• Total Two-Year Fundraising Goal: $220,660
These estimates should help you better prepare for the necessary insurance coverage and adjust your fundraising goals accordingly.
1. Camp Counselors: Responsible for supervising campers, facilitating activities, and providing support and guidance.
2. Activities Director: Plans and coordinates all camp activities, ensuring a diverse and engaging program for campers.
3. Professional Cooks: Prepare nutritious and delicious meals, accommodating various dietary needs and restrictions.
4. Nurses and Paramedics: Provide medical care and ensure the health and safety of all campers.
5. Lifeguards: Ensure the safety of campers during swimming and water-based activities.
6. Mental Health Counselors: Offer emotional support and counseling, helping campers navigate any challenges they may face.
7. Administrative Staff: Manage camp operations, including registration, communication with parents, and logistics.
8. Maintenance Staff: Maintain the camp facilities and grounds to ensure a clean and safe environment.
9. Arts and Crafts Instructors: Lead creative workshops, helping campers explore their artistic talents.
10. Volunteer Coordinators: Manage and support volunteers, ensuring they have a positive and impactful experience.
First Session: LGBTQIA+ Community Camp (14 Days)
This session will cater to children of same-sex parents, including those with two moms, two dads, or other diverse family structures. It will provide a broad, inclusive environment where campers can engage in traditional camp activities, build community, and develop confidence.
Age Groups:
• Younger Campers (8-12 years old): Focus on building fundamental social skills and enjoying traditional camp activities.
• Middle Campers (13-15 years old): Mix of structured and independent activities, with leadership development programs and in-depth workshops.
• Older Campers (16-17 years old): Advanced leadership programs, community-building activities, and more complex discussions about social justice and identity.
The second session will consist of two separate one-week camps, with one day off in between for staff rest and preparation:
First Week: Camp for FTM (Female to Male) transgender youth.
Second Week: Camp for MTF (Male to Female) transgender youth.
This structure provides tailored support and activities specific to each group, offering space for self-discovery, community building, and personal growth. LGBTQ+ youth aged 8-17 will have the opportunity to engage in traditional camp activities such as swimming, archery, nature hikes, and arts and crafts, all within a safe and supportive environment.
There are several organizations across Canada and the United States that offer camps for LGBTQ+ youth. Here are some notable examples:
CampOUT: An inclusive camp designed for queer, trans, and Two-Spirit youth aged 14-21 from across British Columbia and the Yukon. CampOUT provides a supportive environment for youth to explore their identities, build leadership skills, and connect with peers. Activities include:
Camp fYrefly: Canada’s largest volunteer-based summer leadership retreat for LGBTQ+ and allied youth. Held in multiple locations, including Edmonton, Calgary, and Saskatoon, Camp fYrefly focuses on leadership development, self-acceptance, and community building through workshops, activities, and social events. Activities include:
Ten Oaks Project: Runs Camp Ten Oaks, a summer camp for children and youth from LGBTQ+ identities, families, and communities, and Project Acorn, a leadership retreat for older youth. These programs offer a supportive environment for personal growth, community building, and skill development through various activities and workshops. Activities include:
Imprint Youth Association: Provides support and social events for LGBTQ+ youth, offering a safe space for youth to connect, receive support, and participate in community-building activities. Activities include:
Youth Project: Offers camps and leadership programs for LGBTQ+ youth, including summer camps and weekend retreats. These programs provide a supportive environment for personal growth, community building, and leadership development. Activities include:
PEERS Alliance: Offers various programs and support for LGBTQ+ youth, including social events, educational workshops, and peer support groups aimed at fostering a sense of community and belonging. Activities include:
Quadrangle NL: Provides support and community events for LGBTQ+ individuals, including youth programs that offer safe spaces for socialization, support, and community engagement. Activities include:
Queer Yukon: Offers safer spaces, resources, supports, and community connections for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in Yukon. Queer Yukon provides peer support groups, educational events, and social activities to foster a sense of belonging and community. Activities include:
Camp Brave Trails: An LGBTQ+ leadership camp for youth aged 12-18. This camp offers traditional activities such as archery, arts and crafts, hiking, and campfires, alongside unique LGBTQ+ programs like identity-based groups, drag shows, and queer history lessons. The goal is to foster a supportive environment where youth can explore their identities and build lifelong friendships. Activities include:
Camp Lightbulb: Offers summer camps and year-round programming for LGBTQ+ youth aged 14-18. This camp provides a supportive environment for self-expression, community building, and personal growth. Activities include:
Camp Highlight: An overnight camp for children of LGBTQ+ families and LGBTQ+ youth aged 8-15. This camp offers traditional camp activities such as swimming, hiking, and arts and crafts, as well as specialized workshops on topics relevant to LGBTQ+ youth. The camp fosters a supportive and inclusive community where campers can connect with peers who share similar experiences. Activities include:
Harbor Camps: Runs Camp Aranu'tiq, a summer camp for transgender and non-binary youth aged 8-18. The camp focuses on building community, self-confidence, and leadership skills through activities such as boating, archery, arts and crafts, and talent shows. They also offer a counselor-in-training program for older campers and family camp weekends. Activities include:
Rainbow Alley Camp: Provides a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ youth to explore their identities and build leadership skills. The camp includes outdoor activities, workshops, and community-building events, as well as year-round support and programs for LGBTQ+ youth. Activities include:
Odyssey Teen Camp: Offers a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ teens aged 13-18 to explore their identities and build community. The camp features workshops, activities, and social events designed to promote personal growth and leadership development. Campers engage in traditional camp activities as well as specialized programs that focus on self-expression and community building. Activities include:
Camp Ten Trees: Offers a community for LGBTQ+ youth aged 8-17 to engage in traditional camp activities and workshops on social justice and identity. The camp provides a safe and supportive environment where campers can build friendships and develop their leadership skills. Activities include:
YO! Camp: Specifically designed for LGBTQ+ youth, this camp offers activities that promote self-expression, community building, and personal growth. It includes workshops, outdoor adventures, and social events. The camp aims to provide a supportive environment where campers can connect with peers and develop their leadership skills. Activities include:
Rainbow Family Camp: An inclusive camp for LGBTQ+ families and youth, providing a supportive environment for community building, personal growth, and outdoor adventures. Families participate in various activities designed to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. Activities include:
One Heartland: Runs Camp True Colors, providing a safe and affirming environment for LGBTQ+ youth. The camp offers traditional activities such as swimming, hiking, and arts and crafts, along with workshops focused on personal growth and community building. Camp True Colors aims to create a supportive space where campers can connect with peers and develop their leadership skills. Activities include:
CHRIS 180 Rainbow Camp: Provides a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ youth to grow personally and build community. The camp offers various outdoor activities, workshops, and community-building events. CHRIS 180 also provides year-round support and services for LGBTQ+ youth. Activities include:
The Attic Youth Center Summer Camp: Offers a summer camp experience focused on personal growth, community building, and outdoor activities for LGBTQ+ youth. The camp provides a safe and inclusive environment where campers can explore their identities and connect with peers. Activities include:
CampOUT Florida: An inclusive camp designed for LGBTQ+ youth, providing a supportive and affirming environment where they can explore their identities and build confidence. The program offers various outdoor activities, workshops, and social events aimed at fostering personal growth and community building. Activities include:
Camp Outright: A six-day residential camp for LGBTQ+ youth aged 13-17, offering traditional camp activities such as soccer, archery, swimming, and boating. The camp also includes visual and performing arts, social justice workshops, and community-building activities. Activities include:
Camp Lilac: A camp for transgender and gender-diverse youth, providing a safe and supportive environment to explore their identities. Activities include traditional camp experiences such as swimming and hiking, as well as workshops on self-expression and community building. Activities include:
CampOUT Portland: Empowers LGBTQ+ youth through day camps focusing on resilience and community connections. Activities include team-building exercises, outdoor adventures, and workshops on identity and self-expression. Activities include:
Q Plus Summer Programs: While not a traditional overnight camp, Q Plus offers various summer programs and activities for LGBTQ+ youth, including open mics, weekly youth groups, and other events aimed at creating a supportive and empowering environment. Activities include:
New Haven Pride Center Youth Programs: Runs the Connecticut LGBTQ+ Youth Conference and other year-round youth initiatives, providing a range of activities and support for LGBTQ+ youth. Activities include:
Camp Odyssey: A four-day summer camp dedicated to transgender youth, offering a supportive and inclusive environment. The camp focuses on providing a space for self-discovery, community building, and personal growth through a variety of activities. Activities include:
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