Camp Opens a World of Possibilities for Youth in Foster Care

This summer, more than 50 children and teens in foster care unplugged from their electronic devices and embraced new outdoor adventures at Camp Manito-Wish YMCA in Wisconsin’s scenic Northwoods. From kayaking and rock climbing to horseback riding and archery, campers challenged themselves, built confidence, and created lasting memories in the great outdoors.

“I love nature and the outdoors!” says Isaiah Booker, a One Family Illinois foster parent who brought five children in his care, ages 6 to 12, to Family Camp this August for the second consecutive year. “There’s nothing better than spending time with family in nature.”

This life-changing opportunity for One Family Illinois children and caregivers began 15 years ago through the generosity of the Jefferson Sportsman Society and charitable grants from Camp Manito-Wish YMCA. Since 2011, more than 159 One Family Illinois youth have attended Summer Camp, while 79 individuals representing 10 families have participated in Family Camp.

According to Isaiah, outdoor adventures encourage children to step outside their comfort zones and discover strengths they never knew they had.

“Camp gives kids a rare opportunity to grow through new experiences, build confidence, and develop skills that will stay with them for life,” he says. “It opens their imaginations to a world of possibilities they may not have known existed before.”

Isaiah believes access to outdoor experiences is especially meaningful for minority children in foster care.

“It’s important to introduce children to nature when they’re young,” Isaiah says. “That’s when they’re most willing to explore new environments, challenge cultural norms, and try new experiences.”

His own love for the outdoors began during childhood trips to lakeside camps, experiences that continue to inspire him today.

The children who attended camp with Isaiah had so much fun making new friends and creating lifelong memories that they are already eager to return. One of Isaiah’s girls is even considering the camp’s Emerging Leader Experience next summer to develop leadership skills that will strengthen her college and career opportunities.

Looking Ahead to Summer 2027

Even more One Family Illinois youth and families are expected to attend camp in 2027. Creating an authentic wilderness experience requires more than tuition assistance. Camp organizers work to ensure every participant has the equipment and resources needed for a safe, successful experience, including transportation, camper kits filled with essential outdoor gear, and other camping supplies.

The total cost is nearly $6,000 per camper for a two-week summer camp session and approximately $7,000 per family for the four-day, three-night Family Camp experience.

Donations Welcome

You can help make this transformative experience possible for more children in foster care.

To support the camp program, please make a donation today.

Donate here.

Thank you for your generosity and commitment to helping children discover new possibilities, build confidence, and create memories that last a lifetime.

For more information, contact One Family Illinois' Director of Communications, Kathy Wolf, at kwolf@onefamilyillinois.org or (312) 388-0176.