Camp HOPE America - California, Ventura County

Camp HOPE America - California, Ventura County (Camp HOPE) is an evidence-based camping and mentoring program, which is part of the Ventura County Family Justice Center (FJC). Ventura County children ages 8-17 have been attending Camp HOPE since 2015 to build hope, resiliency, and pathways to their dreams. Activities like zip lining, art projects, and singing silly campfire songs encourage campers to step out of their comfort zones, develop positive relationships, and gain self-assurance to overcome challenges. Camp HOPE generally occurs during a week in July or August.

Over the past two years, the FJC has seen a 58% increase in domestic violence calls and a 21% increase in referrals for sexual assault and child abuse. Multiple studies consistently find that children who are exposed to domestic violence and other traumas are at a higher risk for emotional, social, and behavioral difficulties both in the short- and long-term (Evans, et al., 2008; Kitzmann, Gaylord, et al., 2003; Wolf, et al., 2003). The alarming increase in domestic violence and child abuse illustrates why establishing a safe and enjoyable way for children to heal from trauma and develop a pathway to a better future is more important than ever.

Dr. Chan Hellman of the Hope Research Center at the University of Oklahoma-Tulsa began evaluating the Camp HOPE America program during 2015. To assess changes in hope, resilience, and character development, Dr. Hellman used a matched pre-camp, post-camp assessment design. Dr. Hellman publishes his findings, which consistently indicate statistically significant increases in hope and resiliency as self-assessed by each camper. Camp counselors’ observations indicate statistically significant increases in in positive character behaviors, including hope, zest, grit, self-control, optimism, gratitude, social intelligence, and curiosity. These results indicate that the Camp HOPE America program is making a positive difference in the lives of the campers.

The theory behind Camp HOPE is simple - higher levels of hope among children lead to better academic, athletic, physical, and developmental outcomes (Snyder, 2002). In the past six summers, we are proud to have had 32 children attend Camp HOPE, and we are hoping to expand the program to 40-48 children moving forward. The proceeds from this campaign will be used to pay for staff, transportation, food, and fun activities for camp. Thank you for helping us spread hope!