THE Portsea Camp, a safe haven for over 10,000 children aged eight to 18 each year, is launching an ambitious new fundraising initiative that will kick off with community and corporate leaders “camping out for the kids” in July.
The Portsea Camp is aiming to raise $500,000 in the next 12 months and provide the opportunity for 1,000 children and teenagers to discover or reconnect with the magic and restorative effects of a seaside holiday camp.
“Now more than ever, whole schools are reducing or cancelling their camp and other enriching curriculum support programs leaving almost 160,000 more Victorian children without access to school camp than in 2023,” said Sandra Martin, CEO of The Portsea Camp.
“As families continue to emerge from the social and economic challenges posed by the cost-of-living crisis, pandemic, and natural disasters right across Victoria, we remain driven by a profound commitment to restore and harness the wellbeing potential of that familiar rite of childhood passage that is slowly but surely being lost to thousands of vulnerable and disadvantaged children as they miss out on their school camp and outdoor wellbeing programs every year.”
The Portsea Camp’s activities include outdoor adventure activities, wellness and mindfulness sessions, and a range of specialist youth-focused initiatives designed to build confidence, resilience, and a positive mindset.
Senior leaders are being asked to help make a difference by giving one day of their time to “Camp Out for the Kids” on Saturday, 27th July at The Portsea Camp, and engage their networks and help raise vital funds that will enable the organisation to deliver tailored programs directly addressing key protective factors in reducing, sadness, disconnection, depression, anxiety, and suicide in children.
“’Camp Out for Kids’ is more than just a fundraising event; it’s a celebration of community and a call to action. Senior business, community, regional, and school leaders will join us to experience firsthand the magic of camp and hear from industry experts on how exceptional outdoor experiences can help heal children’s bodies and minds.”
The event will feature activities, entertainment, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals dedicated to making a difference in the lives of underprivileged children.
“The economic challenges of the past few years have made it increasingly difficult for families and schools to afford essential programs like music, drama, excursions, and camps. As a result, more children are left on the sidelines, missing out on opportunities that are crucial for their development. The demand for subsidized or free camps is growing faster than we can meet, highlighting the urgent need for our services,” Martin said.
“Our wellness and school camps have proven wellbeing effects, as do overnight camp programs all over the world. Just some of the things children and volunteers alike tell us about the impact camp has had on their lives include, conquering a fear, achieving a personal goal, improved self-image, made new friends, gained confidence, felt a sense of pride and discovered a new passion.
“We have past campers now in their 70s and 80s come back to camp just to tell us how camp changed their life. Their eyes light up as they relive childhood memories and share their stories with us, their children and even great-grandchildren.”
In 2023, The Department of Education in Victoria commissioned a report on their Positive Start initiative which saw them fully absorb the cost of school camp and holiday camps for 160,000 of the most disadvantaged children and schools in the state.
They reported:
- 90% of participants reported improved well-being
- 92% of participants gained confidence
- 95% of participants experienced life-changing moments
- 95% of participants formed meaningful connections and friendships
The report was commissioned to showcase the physical and mental health benefits of kids going to camp as the overwhelmingly popular and successful program was finishing.
“We invite the community to join us at the ‘Camp Out for Kids’ event or host their own camp-out with family or clubs. By participating and contributing to our fundraising efforts, you will directly support thousands of children in experiencing the transformative power of the great outdoors,” Martin said.
“Together, we can make a lasting impact and ensure that every child has the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of camp, regardless of their financial circumstances.”
