“The Nampa Family Justice Center had the opportunity to be a part of Camp HOPE California at Kidder Creek in the summer of 2013. It was there that we got a glimpse into the adventure-based and therapeutic model of Camp HOPE. Since 2014 we have partnered with Trinity Pines Camp and Conference Center in Cascade, Idaho, to offer Camp HOPE America-Idaho to children who have experienced trauma.

In addition to being a Family Justice Center, we are also an accredited Children’s Advocacy Center, allowing us to readily identify both primary and secondary victims of abuse. Our Children’s Program Manager and Camp HOPE Program Director, Tylene Channer, created a program for our community that builds on themes of kindness, friendship, courage, leadership, and peace through group games, cabin discussions, craft projects, individual journaling and more. Jennifer Perry, the Camp HOPE Director, organizes adventure-based programming, such as whitewater rafting, zip lining and hiking to further challenge campers. These activities result in growth and an enhanced belief in themselves and those around them. Angela Weekes, a Corporal with the Nampa Police Department, connects with campers during nightly campfire time. She shares stories of hardship and victory (a breast cancer survivor herself), inspiring children to see that their past doesn’t dictate their future.

Tylene, Jennifer, and Angela could not provide Camp HOPE America- Idaho to youth without the support of the NFJC’s Executive Director, Criselda DeLaCruz, who has accompanied us to Camp HOPE Idaho a number of times. We also have great partnerships with Boise State University (BSU) and Northwest Nazarene University (NNU). BSU nursing professors and St. Luke’s CARES medical doctors have accompanied us to Camp since 2013, providing medical support to our campers and linking us with great mentors and counselors. NNU has provided transportation for our campers to get to and from Camp HOPE, freeing up more funds so additional kids can go to camp.

Generous donors have made Camp HOPE America-Idaho possible year after year. We have received financial gifts from the Brandt Foundation, Snake River Valley Building Contractors Association, Corwin Ford, and numerous individual donors. We are excited to bring another group of kids to camp this summer and watch as they get a piece of their childhood back.”