In the vibrant year of 1985, amidst the bustling streets of Boston, I embarked on a journey that would forever alter the course of my life. The palpable excitement coursing through my veins as I ventured forth for my camp uniform fitting remains etched in my memory. Accompanied by my family on the drive from Connecticut to Massachusetts, I eagerly anticipated the adventures that lay ahead. Little did I know, as a timid 9-year-old, that I stood on the precipice of a transformative odyssey.

Arriving at Camp Pembroke weeks later, a sense of trepidation mingled with anticipation engulfed me. Yet, with each passing day, I found myself immersed in a world of camaraderie and belonging. From mastering camp songs to joining the ranks of the tennis and kickball teams, I discovered the profound joy of being part of something larger than myself. Amidst the verdant embrace of nature, I learned not only to make my bed and tend to communal chores but also to embrace new culinary delights.

Over the ensuing years, Camp became my sanctuary, a bastion of self-discovery and growth. Through its nurturing embrace, I cultivated resilience, confidence, and a deep-seated appreciation for collective endeavors. Over time and between other journeys, I always came back to my lessons from camp.  I assumed leadership roles as a camp counselor and eventually ascended to the esteemed position of camp director.  Learning how to lead, I soon took on new career opportunities that I would never have dreamed of reaching for and mentoring others as I was mentored.  Almost 40 years later, with the distinguished honor of being the Program Manager for AmeriCamp, an International visa sponsor for the Camp Counselor Program, I look back and wonder if I would have been here without the generous scholarship afforded to me all those years ago.

Fast forward to April 10th, 2024 a date imbued with significance as I found myself amidst esteemed company at the SCOPE Fundraiser in New York City's illustrious Ziegfield Ballroom. In the company of Laura Kastner, Camp Director for AmeriCamp, I bore witness to the unwavering commitment of SCOPE to provide underprivileged youth with access to life-altering summer camp experiences.

Summer camp provides children with access to step outside the boundaries of their home life to…

• LIVE in a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment
• DEVELOP new skills and explore individual interests
• BE CHALLENGED by new experiences
• CREATE life-long bonds of friendship and community
• LEARN from positive adult role models
• GAIN leadership skills and confidence

Summer camp is an essential component of the year-round educational continuum and plays a critical role in helping children from underserved communities to thrive. SCOPE bridges the opportunity gap by making summer camp accessible to children from financially disadvantaged families.

Due to the support of AmeriCamp by Intrax as a SCOPE Silver Sponsor, we had the opportunity to invite two summer camps that are also recipients of SCOPE camperships. Charlotte Brown and Christine Giannobile of YMCA of the Pines Camps Camp Matollionequay for Girls and Camp Ockanickon For Boys attended as our personal guests for the evening.  They shared their experience welcoming SCOPE recipients the personal impact that has had on their young campers.  

I reflected on how we at AmeriCamp by Intrax also impact these children.  SCOPE allows them access to camp and we as an organization have the privilege of exposing them to new cultures, people and language through our Bridge USA Exchange program we administer.  A true partnership in cultural exchange and why we do what we do as an organization.

In its 33rd year, SCOPE continues to illuminate the path to possibility, having bestowed over 27,000 camperships and counting. At this year's gala, amidst heartfelt speeches and celebratory camaraderie, we honored individuals and organizations whose unwavering dedication furthers SCOPE's noble mission.

During the benefit, we heard from a young man who is a SCOPE “campership” recipient and his mom.  The testimonials of Amir and his mother, Aaliyah, encapsulate the transformative power of SCOPE's endeavors. From the bustling streets of the South Bronx, Amir's journey stands as a testament to the indelible impact of summer camp on young hearts and minds.

Amir, a 5th grade student from the South Bronx, watched his brother go to camp and now he has benefited from life-changing opportunities at overnight summer camp because of SCOPE campership support. "Being at camp for the past three years has matured me and has taught me independence. [Camp] has truly changed my life by teaching me life lessons and making camp a second home that I continue to look forward to every summer."

This emotional speech was followed by raffles, silent auction bidding, and an opportunity for additional bids all in an effort toward the goal of raising $1M in ‘campership’ opportunities for the season. The fun evening was topped with an afterhours party and gift bags provided by event sponsors.

AmeriCamp by Intrax was honored to be a part of this valuable event! Like many of our camps, AmeriCamp continued commitment to philanthropy towards these opportunities, now and into the future.  My Camp, Camp Pembroke, is a proud AmeriCamp summer camp and one of thousands who work to open its doors to those who could not afford camp without generous donations.  As an attendee, an AmeriCamp employee, and former camper, I want to thank Intrax Leadership for your participation in SCOPE.

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