Camp Fire Green Country Annual Report 2013

706 South Boston Avenue Tulsa, Oklahoma 74119 918-592-2267 www.tulsacampfire.org

ow did I get involved with Camp Fire? I grew up in an area where Camp Fire wasn’t available, but I did participate in another youth development organization, so I understand the youth development concept and appreciate its value. I have a friend who serves on the Camp Fire board who introduced me to the organization and invited

me to participate in Just Plane Fun, our annual fundraising event – an airplane pull where teams of 20 individuals engage in a tug-of-war with the MD-80 at Tulsa Tech’s Riverside Campus. My team may not have moved the plane, but I was moved by the organization and its promise to today’s youth.

For those of you who may be new to Camp Fire, allow me to share some of what I found exciting about Camp Fire. Most importantly, I’m extremely proud of Camp Fire’s commitment to inclusivity. One thing that all children have in common is the desire to be accepted.

We believe that all youth not only deserve the same opportunities but also crave an environment in which they can find their spark and discover who they are. We welcome all youth and celebrate each person’s uniqueness. We do this through age appropriate programming delivered in small groups by trained mentors. We offer our programming through afterschool programs, summer camps and community clubs, just to name a few.

Since joining the Board, I have been fortunate to see firsthand Camp Fire’s impact on Green Country. I’m continually impressed and energized by the Board and staff’s passion for serving the community. However, passion alone will not sustain the organization for the long term. Over the next year, we will rededicate our focus and commitment to building capacity within the organization through strategic business planning and execution.

We intend to be very deliberate in our approach to increasing program participation, revenue, and the visibility of Camp Fire in ways that support our core mission and values and best serve Green Country.

Through our Thrive curriculum, we encourage our youth to have a growth mindset. We’ll be taking our cue from them as we get out of our comfort zones and open our minds to new ideas and innovations.

I would like to thank everyone who supported Camp Fire this year with either their time, talent, and treasure or some combination thereof. We look forward to your continued support and collaboration. If you’re new to Camp Fire, welcome! It’s an exciting time to be part of Camp Fire and I’m looking forward to another fantastic year.

“One thing that all children have in common is the desire to be accepted.”

Alice Helmke, Board President

About Camp FireAt Camp Fire, ALL kids and families are welcome.

We purposefully serve youth from at-risk and vulnerable circumstances whose families struggle with challenges associated with poverty.

For most youth we serve, Camp Fire is their ONLY extracurricular opportunity because we provide programming at little or no cost to families.

Each year we serve over 3,000 youth in northeast Oklahoma, from Pre-K to 12th Grade. Nationally, Camp Fire serves over 1 MILLION youth and families every year.

Camp Fire Green Country is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and proud Partner Agency of the Tulsa Area United Way.

EACH YEAR, WE SERVE OVER 3,000 YOUTH

IN NORTHEAST OKLAHOMA

t Camp Fire, when we’re interviewing prospective employees, our standard first question goes something like this – “When you read through Camp Fire’s core values, which one or two caught your attention and why?” In most every interview, candidates cite Camp Fire’s statement on inclusion as the one value that

resonates with them. We are inclusive, welcoming children, youth and adultsregardless of race, religion, socioeconomic status, disability, sexual orientation, or other aspect of diversity.

In preparation for composing my remarks for this 2013 Annual Report, the subject of diversity and inclusion has been on my mind. Due to recent developments in Oklahoma around marriage equality, the topic has become ubiquitous with conversations taking place in workplaces, on college campuses, in houses of worship, coffee shops, and of course on Facebook. Some folks have even adopted the shorthand language of referring to the topic as “D&I” (diversity & inclusion).

While these conversations are important and valuable, I believe it’s imperative that we ground our thinking about diversity and inclusion in the broader necessity of belonging. Ultimately, if we’re embracing and celebrating diversity and working to ensure that everyone feels included, we’re meeting that deepest of all human emotional needs – the need to feel as though one belongs.

Recently, one of our staff pointed out that we see this need clearly expressed in its most basic sense by very young children who find themselves among a group of laughing adults. Little ones – while having no knowledge of what’s funny – join in the laughter. They want to feel part of that moment of connection.

I heard this same need conveyed by a former gang member who told an audience of adults:

It’s not about the guns.It’s not about the drugs. It’s not about the colors.

It’s about the bond.

At Camp Fire, particularly over the last three years, we’ve been on a journey to better equip our staff to demonstrate that we’re serious about ensuring that all youth feel included. We’ve learned that having the desire to create welcoming program environments isn’t always enough. Through a variety of professional development experiences and very intentional systemic efforts, we’ve built our capacity to serve a much wider audience of children and youth – thereby providing quality youth development and outdoor opportunities where few or none existed before.

To everyone who makes it possible for Camp Fire to ensure that all children have the opportunity to participate in our programs – individuals, organizations, and foundations, thank you. Because you understand the need to offer experiences where everyone feels a sense of belonging, you’re helping to grow a generation of youngsters who not only feel they belong, but who also want to extend that same sense to others.

“We are inclusive, welcoming children, youth and adults regardless of race, religion, socioeconomic status, disability, sexual orientation or other aspect of diversity.”

Wohelo,

Bobbie Henderson, Executive Director

“Camp Fire is proud to be at the forefront of this movement, partnering with community agencies, coalitions, and institutions of higher education to provide youth with diverse STEM experiences.”~Deric Williams, Program Director

Providing focused opportunities on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math) helps youth find their spark in these fields. STEM is subject-matter driven. Club leaders utilize field trips, educational experiences, and STEM backpacks to engage youth in exciting and fun activities with rocket launchers, chemical reactions, air pressure, and more.

“I greatly appreciate…Camp Fire’s efforts to promote STEM programs in our community and how it has impacted my own family. I signed up my 13 year old son for your summer program offered through TCC and he was NOT happy about this decision. Yet when I picked him up he was happy and on fire about this class! He loved the field trips that showed STEM in action and the engineering accomplishments of his team. Thank you for offering this opportunity that my son had never experienced nor could envision in the STEM fields. I strongly encourage your organization to further develop other opportunities for our community’s children in STEM.”~Poppy Kelley

STEM

The Thrive Theory of Change focuses on youth development and achievement as a process of four components. Integral to the THRIVE method and from the research of Dr. Peter Benson, we understand that sparks originate inside a person, “that the inner passions, interests and talents catalyze the drive for personal growth.”

Identify SparksCamp Fire exposes youth to experiences that develop passions and skills that are meaningful and motivating.

Practice a Growth MindsetAdults and youth believe that intelligence and abilities can be developed when the brain is challenged.

Reflect on Indicators of ThrivingYouth are encouraged to explore strengths and address challenges to work towards their full potential.

Build Goal Management SkillsYouth aquire skills to thrive by selecting positive goals, using strategies, and shifting gears when the road becomes difficult.

NATIONAL INCLUSION PROJECT Aligning with Camp Fire’s core value of inclusiveness, our partnership with National Inclusion Project for their Let’s

ALL Play initiative brings a comprehensive, recreational experience to children with disabilities. National Inclusion Project provides a program model, specialized training,

and funding to hire additional staff to serve as “buddies” for youth with disabilities.

Camp Fire programs fully include children who might otherwise have been prevented from attending or participating in camp because of health or behavioral challenges. We serve children with autism spectrum disorder,

celiac disease, visual impairments, ADHD, ODD, and other mental, physical, and behavioral health needs.

Photo courtesy of The Tulsa World.

STEP-IT-UP-2-THRIVE

Kelsey returned to Camp Waluhili for her second year of summer camp. Diagnosed

with autism spectrum disorder, Kelsey enjoyed

the quintessential summer camp experience because of

the grant awarded by the National Inclusion Project. Kelsey conquered her fear

of heights with the support and encouragement of camp counselors and campmates.

She embraced the challenge of rappelling off a 25 foot cliff!

Youth walk away from CampOUT with a better understanding of who they are, greater self-confidence, and the knowledge they CAN make a difference in their community.

Goal managementLeadership skills

Conflict resolutionSocial and Emotional skills

In April 2013 Camp Fire Green Country, in collaboration with Tulsa Reaches Out and Youth Services of Tulsa, initiated a semiannual weekend for older youth that identify as LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning) and their allies. Research shows youth who identify as LGBTQ are often bullied, harbor feelings of insecurity and exclusion, and feel misunderstood or unloved. In this weekend workshop youth create meaningful and purposeful projects for their school or community that focus on social justice issues.

“We strive to empower youth to stand up, stand

out, and be leaders in their community. Data from a recent Human Rights

Campaign poll shows that 77% of LGBT youth say they know things will get better…in Camp Fire, we believe it

begins now.”~Deric Williams, Program Director

CampOUT

Hosted by Camp Fire Green Country since 2003, Becoming an Outdoors-Woman® is a nonprofit,

international educational program that teaches outdoor skills in a woman-friendly environment. Annually on

the first weekend in October, Camp Waluhili hosts 110 participants and 50 to 60 staff members. The programming includes a balance of hunting and

shooting, fishing and boating, and non-consumptive outdoor recreational activities. In 2013, 40 classes were

offered including atlatl, archery, blacksmithing, clay shooting, crafts, kayaking, and paddle boarding.

It is organized for any fitness, confidence, or skill level.

With the support of sponsors and community partners, our 14th annual fundraiser, JUST PLANE

FUN, experienced a 35% increase in revenue and raised nearly $64,000.

Held the first Saturday of June at Tulsa Technology Center, Riverside Campus, this unique event brings together teams of 20 people to compete in a plane

pull with a 100,000 lb. plane. All proceeds raised from this event support Camp Fire’s programming

throughout the year.

JUST PLANE FUN

“BOW is a natural progression of what we do with youth. It provides a successful opportunity for women

to better the skills they have acquired or experience new opportunities in a

non-competitive environment.” ~Susan Bencke, Camp and Outdoor Director,

Becoming an Outdoors-Woman® Director

Becoming an Outdoors-Woman®

Total Public Support & Revenue: $1,212,820

Total Expenses: $1,201,143

A.  80%  Program  Services  -­‐  $957,584  

B.  12%  Fundraising  -­‐  $147,556  

C.  8%  Management  &  General  -­‐  $96,003  

A.  49%  Contributions  &  Grants  -­‐  $593,776  

B.  26%  United  Way  -­‐  $311,174  

C.  13%  Camp,  Program  Fees  &  Member  Dues  -­‐  $152,047  

D.  5%  Special  Events  -­‐  Just  Plane  Fun  -­‐  $62,496  

E.  3%  Youth  Sales  -­‐  $40,787  

F.  4%  Other  -­‐  $52,540  

The annual financial statements for Camp Fire Green Country, Inc. are audited by Morse & Co., PLLC. A complete copy of those financial statements and accompanying footnotes, and an independent auditor’s report, is available for review at the Council’s business office, 706 South Boston Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The most current IRS Form 990 is available on the website at www.tulsacampfire.org.

A. 80 % Program Services - $957,584 B. 12% Fundraising - $147,556 C. 8% Management & General - $96,003

A. 49% Contributions & Grants - $593,776 B. 26% United Way - $311,174 C. 13% Camp, Program Fees & Member Dues - $152,047 D. 5% Special Events - Just Plane Fun - $62,496 E. 3% Youth Sales - $40,787 F. 4% Other - $52,540

$500 1-year, 12 youth registration fees, snacks and supplies, 1 field trip and transportation

$1000

1-year, 30 youth registration fees, snacks and supplies, 1 field trip and transportation

$2500 1-year, 3 Afterschool Clubs, comprehensive Camp Fire Programming, registration costs,

program supplies, field trips and transportation

$5000 1-year, 6 Afterschool Clubs, comprehensive Camp Fire Programming, registration costs,

program supplies, field trips and transportation

$10,000 1 week of Resident Camp 25 youth or 1 week of Day Camp 50 youth

Online at www.tulsacampfire.org/monetary-donationsVisit Amazon Smile and donate with each qualifying purchase

DonationsCamp Fire Green Country706 South Boston Avenue

Tulsa, Oklahoma 74119918-592-2267

A. 49% Contributions & Grants - $593,776 B. 26% United Way - $311,174 C. 13% Camp, Program Fees & Member Dues - $152,047 D. 5% Special Events - Just Plane Fun - $62,496 E. 3% Youth Sales - $40,787 F. 4% Other - $52,540

Jackie AhrensTheresa BarnardKathy BlankBrenda BlumenthalAmber BlytheKenneth & Denise BurnettKaren CallahanGayle CampbellSteve ChilcoatSam & Connie ChildersCynthia ClarkRonald & Janice ColemanPeter & Felicia CorreiaAnne DaubneyJorge DelgadoGrant & Jeanette EasterlingTally FergusonMark GrahamYevonne GunterStephan & Julie GuyAmy HalliburtonCarla HefleyAlice HelmkeFrank X. Henke IIIGail HuberMary & Tracy JohnsonRain JohnsonCheryl JonesStuart KasiskeJoyce King CheathamCarol KruegerDenise LantDonna LittleGraydon & Deborah LutheyRyan McKnightSherry MarcumMike & Patti MillerMichael NalleyRuth K. NelsonElizabeth PricePenny PricerMike RainesPhyllis RainesMadhu RajagopalSharolyn Whiting RalstonRon & Nancy RauschJohn Regur

All Souls Unitarian ChurchAlpha Phi OmegaBrad AndersonAmber BlytheJim & Gayle CampbellDaylight DonutsGilley ElectricJosh FidlerDon & Bobbie HendersonHiland DairyLamar Outdoor AdvertisingLand Scrapes LLCLangdon Publishing Company, Inc.MicrosoftAmanda MurphyMuscogee (Creek) NationBobby PattonPeta Pi ChapterRCB BankMike RainesPhyllis RainesRanch Acres Wine & SpiritsRob RossSouth Lakes Plaza Mini-StorageTechSoup Microsoft FulfillmentWalmartWarren Wine & SpiritsJohn Wiley, Inc.ZebcoJeff Zumwalt

Cimarex Energy Co. Friends of CimarronGamma Phi Beta Campership ProgramMetro Tulsa Civitan ClubRed River Community Corps (AmeriCorps)SCFM Compression Systems, Inc.Tulsa Alumnae Chapter Gamma Phi Beta SororityWill Rogers Sams Club

Susan Bencke Jerry & Mary GroveBobbie Henderson Cara Cowan WattsRebecca Kovin Craig & Carol KovinMarisa Randall Rita RandallLauren Roberts Glenn & Sally Taggart

In Honor

Individuals In Kind Donors

Businesses & Organizations

Robert RossGeorge ShahadiMelissa SparksCandace StineFrances J. SulgroveGlenn & Sally TaggartBershunda TaylorAnn ThompsonJanet TowneAlyson WalkerDan & Peggy WalkerTamara WalkingstickHerb & Mary Sue WhitneyDellanna R. WilliamsJeff Zumwalt

The generosity of these wonderful individuals, families, foundations, businesses, organizations, and Tulsa Area United Way, makes it possible for boys and girls throughout Northeastern Oklahoma to benefit from

Camp Fire’s youth asset building programs. Thanks to their gifts, our world will be a better place.

Tulsa Area United Way

AAONAllianceArvestBank of OklahomaBest BuyBrown Mackie CollegeCase & AssociatesCloseBendDennis M. Jones InsuranceGay & Lesbian Fund for TulsaGlobal HealthLions ClubMagellanMesa ProductsMullin PlumbingNAWICNordamORS NascoSemGroup Tulsa Technology Center, Riverside CampusUnit CorporationWilliamsWPX Energy

Just Plane Fun

City of Tulsa Community Development Block GrantOklahoma State Office of Juvenile Affairs

Government

The Mervin Bovaird FoundationCarson FoundationChapman Foundations ManagementFlint Family FoundationFounders of Doctors’ Hospital, Inc.The Sharna & Irvin Frank FoundationGeorge Kaiser Family FoundationHerman Kaiser FoundationRalph & Frances McGill FoundationNational Inclusion ProjectRed River Community Corps. (AmeriCorps)Sarkeys FoundationDavid E. and Cassie L. Temple FoundationTulsa Community FoundationTulsa FoundationSam Viersen Family FoundationThe Williams FoundationThe Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation

FoundationsMargaret Isaacson John & Jane Carter Maria Cronin Marty & Ruth Ellis Matilda Emerson Barbara Foster Deborah Griffiths Bobbie Henderson Michelle Hoffman Jeff & Cathey Keaton Don & Eva McAdams Desiree Muni Oklahoma Occupational Therapy Assoc. Peter & Karen Olivieri Page Parker Parson Family Phyllis Raines Judith Spino Wanda VintSusan Linde AnonymousHelen Main David & Susan MainRachel Maze Phyllis RainesHolly Stegner AnonymousBobby Winters Phyllis Raines

In Memory

In Honor

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Alice Helmke, CPA Past President Gayle Campbell President Elect Penny Pricer Vice President, Administration Amy Halliburton Vice President, Fund Development John Regur Vice President, Program Services Patti Miller Secretary LaTreshia Thomas Treasurer Ryan McKnight

Tolissa Autry Kathy Blank Amber Blythe Wendy Carson Noreen Casey Cynthia Clark Anne Daubney Jorge Delgado Emily Ellis, Youth Member Breann Green Rain Johnson Stuart Kasiske Denise Lant Tracye Love, LPC Victoria McArtor Sherry Marcum Kim MulhollandAmanda MurphyShelby Nuckolls, Youth MemberMichael RainesPhyllis RainesGeorge ShahadiMelissa Sparks Candace Stine Bershunda TaylorJustice Waidner Smith Jeff Zumwalt

OFFICERS – EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CAMP FIRE STAFFExecutive DirectorBobbie Henderson

Assistant Executive Director Amy Hilligoss

Program Director

Deric Williams

Community Relations Director Claire Johnson

Camp & Outdoor Director Susan Bencke

BookkeeperStephanie Nourse

Administrative Assistant Jodi Watts

Program Service Coordinators Paige Kennedy

Emily Pauli

Youth Leadership CoordinatorSarah Smith

Graphic Designer/ Community Relations Assistant

Jinger Mahan

AmeriCorps MembersKambria Givens

Brad MannschreckSamantha Sanco

Katrina Skefos

Sapulpa Community Resource Center Office Manager Lisa Parker

Camp Site Directors Mike Thompson, Okiwanee

Denny Winters, Waluhili

Our PromiseYoung people want to shape the world.

Camp Fire provides the opportunity to find their spark,

Lift their voice, and discover who they are.

In Camp Fire, it begins now.

Light the fire within

Printing Generously Provided By

706 South Boston Avenue Tulsa, Oklahoma 74119

918-592-2267 www.tulsacampfire.org