Camp HOPE Expands in its 8th Year in North Carolina
Camp HOPE North Carolina - Guilford County, run through the Guilford County Family Justice Center (FJC) is dedicated to children and teens who have experienced trauma and domestic violence. In its 8th year, the camp is celebrating its largest group of children yet. Hosted by the Family Justice Center in collaboration with YMCA Camp Weaver, this year’s camp welcomes 85 campers, supported by 18 volunteer mentors and 13 additional support staff.
The FJC’s Child Trauma Specialist Coordinator Hannah Mould details the growth and new aspects of this year’s camp, emphasizing its positive impact on the community, “...new this year, High Adventure campers aged 13-15 will have more advanced, challenge-by-choice activities including a field trip to the whitewater center and late-night bonfire,” said Mould.
Therapeutic activities remain a cornerstone of Camp HOPE’s offerings. This year, the camp introduces a special therapeutic horseback riding activity, facilitated by Horsepower Therapeutic Learning Center. This activity is designed to promote healing and build trust through interaction with horses, offering a unique and calming therapeutic experience. These sessions align with Camp HOPE’s mission of providing trauma-informed care in a nurturing setting.
A significant highlight this year is the involvement of former campers who have transitioned into mentor roles. For the first time, three camp counselor volunteers, who were once campers themselves, are now giving back to the community that supported them. Having attended the camp for over six years, their journey from campers to counselors underscores the camp’s lasting impact and the powerful sense of community it fosters. These counselors bring a deep understanding and empathy to their roles, serving as inspirational figures for current campers.
We celebrate Custody Advocacy Program Director, Paige Gilliard, also known as “Fanny Pack”, who has been a counselor at Camp HOPE since its inception. Her unwavering dedication and hard work have been instrumental in the camp’s success. Thank you Paige, we appreciate all that you have done to support and grow Camp HOPE over the years. Your commitment has helped shape the program into the transformative experience it is today.
As Camp HOPE continues to evolve, its commitment to providing a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for children remains steadfast. The camp’s success reflects the dedication of its staff and volunteers, as well as the resilience and courage of its campers. This year’s record participation and new activities are a testament to the program’s enduring impact and the positive change it inspires in the lives of young people.