Bringing Overnight Camp Within Reach for Metro Denver Youth

That’s why Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver and YMCA of Northern Colorado’s YMCA Camp Tumbleson Lake are launching a partnership to expand access to overnight camp experiences—proven to help young people build independence, strengthen problem-solving skills, reduce stress, and deepen social connections.

This summer, the partnership will bring more than 80 members of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver to YMCA Camp Tumbleson Lake, an overnight camp near Ward, Colo. The experience is funded through a shared investment by both organizations and their donors. YMCA of Northern Colorado is providing discounted camp weeks and financial assistance, while support from the Gates Family Foundation is helping extend this opportunity to Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver members.

“For some of our Club members, even a day trip to the mountains may be out of reach,” said Erin Porteous, chief executive officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver. “This partnership with the Y opens the door to first-time experiences like overnight camping, time in the mountains, canoeing, and mountain biking —helping young people build confidence as they try new things.”

At Camp Tumbleson Lake, Club members will take part in activities ranging from navigating an inflatable lake-top obstacle course and zip lining to crafts, shared meals, and building friendships with bunkmates.

“Camp is a powerful teacher of life’s greatest lessons. Communication, leadership, independence, confidence, conservation, and friendship. The list goes on,” said Shelby Sever, executive director of YMCA Camp Tumbleson Lake. “Through this partnership, young people are getting a chance to unplug, challenge themselves, and grow as people. When two trusted, impact-driven organizations come together, it can be transformational for our youth.”

Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver has identified about 20 boys and girls for each of the four weeks of camp. The latest group headed out on Sunday, July 5, and the next group is scheduled to leave on Sunday, August 2.

Both organizations view this as a starting point and plan to grow the collaboration over time, with the goal of creating a long-term model for expanding equitable access to outdoor learning, leadership, and adventure.