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Camp Power 2016

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Camp Power is seeking your support for summer 2016. Your donation will help us expand the program and serve youth in two DeKalb neighborhoods this summer; the University Village housing development and the Pleasant Street neighborhood.       

Camp Power was developed in 2014 in response to the pressing issues facing children and their families in a neighborhood that was significantly impacted by poverty, the lack of opportunity, public safety concerns, and quality of life issues.  Camp Power was designed as a free, collaborative summer program offered on-site to children and their families living in the University Village housing development which is comprised of 534 residential units. 

In its inaugural year, through a joint effort of 25 different community organizations and nearly 500 volunteers, this culturally relevant, multi-dimensional wellness program offered an academic component, daily nutritious lunch service, structured physical activities, nutrition education, layered mentoring, life skills training, family engagement activities, paid employment opportunities to parents, exposure to a range of community resources, and daily, positive interaction with our police officers.

Several positive outcomes derived from this program in 2014, naturally inspiring the continuation for the program in 2015. 

2014 Outcomes: 

- 130 children participated in the program
- 26% reduction in part 2 crimes
- 96% of parents reported an improved perception of police
- 3,371 lunches served
- 92% reported improved nutritional habits
- 50% reported increased physical activity

2015 Outcomes: 

- 140 children participated in the program
- 40.4% reduction in offenses reported in University Village neighborhood 
- 13.3% reduction in calls for service in University Village neighborhood 
- 48.6% reduction in arrests in University Village neighborhood 
- 2,561 lunches served
- 72% reported eating more fruits
- 63% reported eating more vegetables
- Children were moderately physically active more than 80% of their time in camp. 

Camp Power served thousands of meals, provided children with a host of educational and recreational opportunities they may have never experienced before, and also created lasting relationships.

The ability to build a relationship and change a life outcome are inspiring, and knowing that we as a united community can make a difference here in our own neighborhoods is real, not just a talking point.  For the past two years, this ten-week program has been generously funded entirely by community based donations and grants, as well as many of our community stakeholders committing their staff to facilitate the program’s mission, relationship build, and embrace one another as respected members of our community.

Your donation to Camp Power will be placed in a restricted account with the Kishwaukee Family YMCA. Funds will be used exclusively for Camp Power.  

We are hopeful you will consider joining us to support Camp Power’s mission to empower bodies and minds.  Your generous support will truly make an impact on the future of our community.

Additional information about Camp Power: 

Camp Power Facebook

Kishwaukee YMCA and Camp Power

Kishwaukee YMCA partners with Camp Power

DeKalb Police Department and Camp Power

Camp Power is #ProudlyDeKalb

NIU strong supporter of Camp Power

Camp Power decreases crime

The start of Camp Power

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Donations 

  • Jennifer Lycan
    • $50 
    • 8 yrs
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Organizer and beneficiary

Mary Hess
Organizer
DeKalb, IL
Charles Irick
Beneficiary

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