Canyon Camp will be benefiting nearly $70,000 in investment in program and facility needs from the efforts of the nonprofit organization, the Friends of Canyon Camp.
Each year, supporters of Canyon Camp come together to support capital and program related projects. Every penny of available funds is appropriated each and every year. Since the onset of these initiatives, more than $100,000 has been given to Camp with direct benefit to Scouts, Leaders, Staff, and Visitors.
In 2021, $30,000 was given to support 7 projects ranging from new generators at Camp to trail renovations and new PFDs for waterfront. Last year, with an additional boost of resources from the 85th anniversary reunion, the 2022 cycle saw more than $60,000 available for 11 projects. Just last week, the 2023 Leadership Council met to designate nearly $70,000 across 19 projects at Camp.
These projects are essential for the annual camp facilities evaluations ongoing within the BSA's National Camp Accreditation Program, enhancing the camp experience for all participants, and/or creating lasting change in behind the scenes needs for maintenance and refurbishment of our beautiful, traditional style camp.
This year, the Friends of Canyon Camp have selected these pre-approved projects for funding:
Existing campsite enhancements
New pool cleaning device
Support towards efforts of a new-to-camp tractor
Support towards Troop 95's memorial of low COPE challenges
New storage space for pioneer Potpourri
New cameras for Handicraft area
Seed funding for a new campsite "off the hill"
Electric to 1-3+ additional campsites
Miscellaneous items for priority mini-projects
High need program supply enhancements
Improved drainage and entry leading to Office/Trading Post and bouldering wall
New kitchen and dining hall equipment
Phase II off-season storage improvements
Fencing/landscaping around dumpsters (etc)
Office equipment needs
Electric to rifle range
Drawings for a potential future footbridge
Improved shelving in the rifle range
These projects will be implemented by the Canyon Camp property committee and Canyon Camp Staff within the direction of the Blackhawk Area Council. Key volunteers step up to bring these projects to fruition each year, and we are thrilled to see this progress continue. This annual effort comes alongside needs and support of the Blackhawk Area Council.
Additionally, major gifts have been made in recent years creating transformational opportunities. This includes one of Camp's largest gifts in its recent history. Major projects such as a new maintenance facility and, within the next few seasons, upgraded bathroom and shower facilities at Canyon Camp continue to move through planning stages to be implemented in the near future.
We have much to be thankful at Canyon Camp. Our history speaks to our ability to provide a top notch program with scant resources, but in recent years, we have been fortunate enough to have resources to invest in program and capital needs. Intentionally, our Camp will remain rustic and traditional in nature, but these friends and alumni who give back are creating opportunity to ensure all Scouts who enter the front gates of Camp have a memorable, life changing experience as they enjoy the Spirit of Canyon Camp.
Thank you for providing for these young people who enjoy Canyon Camp each year!
