Camp Courage 2025: More Than Just a Summer Camp

One-by-one, cars pulled up early on a Sunday morning as kids with backpacks and pillows spilled out. The bus to Camp Courage was filling up fast.

For the past 34 years, dozens of campers and volunteers have gathered in Prescott for a week of skill-building, connection, and pure enjoyment! This year was no exception. Camp Courage continues to be a place where everyone – campers and volunteers alike – can recharge, reconnect, and grow.

A Week of Adventure

This year’s theme, “Past. Present.Future.,” was thoughtfully woven into each day’s activities. With over 20 activities ranging from horseback riding and ropes courses to archery and photography workshops (and of course, the famous DIY tie-dye t-shirts!) every camper found something to spark their curiosity and confidence. The week wouldn’t be complete without two camper favorites: Lake Day on Wednesday and Firefighter & Sponsor Day on Friday, capped off with any epic water fight, courtesy of more than a dozen fire departments whose staff volunteers for the day!

Evenings Full of Magic

But the magic doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Each evening includes themed events like a foam glow party, dance party, movie night and carnival night. Beneath the fun, campers were also building something deeper: resilience, leadership, and emotional strength.

Building Skills that Last

“Yes, we teach children how to climb high ladders and ride bikes – but more importantly, we teach them how to face fear with courage, how to trust themselves and others, and how to support one another,” said Kelsey Stryker, ABF’s Director of Client Care Services. “Whether it’s practicing breathing exercises while waiting for the ropes course or sharing jokes in line, campers are learning soft skills like teamwork, emotional regulation and problem-solving – skills they carry with them long after camp ends.”

A Community That Grows Together

With campers ranging from ages 6 to 19, the camp fosters a unique mentorship model. Younger kids look up to older campers, while teens in ABF’s Leaders-in-Training (LIT) program step into roles of responsibility and guidance. Many go on to become camp counselors themselves, creating a cycle of growth and giving back.

Beneath the hustle and excitement of camp, there’s healing – in the laughter, the shared stories, and the quiet moments in between. Camp Courage is more than just a camp – it is a community where kids feel safe to be themselves, explore new experiences and build lifelong connections.