Mentors provide personalized support during daily academic sessions, helping students build core skills in reading, writing, and math. Their consistent guidance fosters confidence and encourages personal growth in a nurturing environment.
Enrichment Activities
Each day, students engage in music, art, and improv activities that spark creativity, self-expression, and collaboration These experiences foster imagination, build confidence, and deepen appreciation for the arts
Social and Emotional Growth
Mentors offer personalized support during daily academic sessions, strengthening students’ skills in reading, writing, and math. Their steady guidance builds confidence and supports personal growth in a nurturing environment.
“Dream Camp helps Austin meet new peers from different parts of the city, it also helps him not be as shy as he normally is. Everyone from the staff to the kids are amazing.”
- Shontee (parent)
EXPANDED ACCESS TO SUMMER ENRICHMENT!
6 week experience.
For the first time in it’s 24 year history, Dream Camp expanded to a This translates to of mentorship & engagement in a safe, supportive environment. 26,880 valuable hours
Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency will support Dream Camp’s PA’s youth for 2025 & 2026.
JUNIOR CAMP Grades
1-2
Academic Enrichment
Junior Camp sparks curiosity through hands-on academic exploration Campers dive into science experiments, ecology and nature walks, and problem-solving activities that encourage discovery and critical thinking
Physical Activity
Active play is a key part of each day. Campers enjoy sports, swimming, team games, and outdoor adventures that build coordination and energy.
Arts Exposure
Campers unleash their creativity through a wide range of artistic experiences. In daily art, campers paint, draw, and craft. Projects are hands-on and age-appropriate, giving campers the chance to explore different mediums, build confidence in their creative abilities, and discover new passions in the arts.
Dream Camp welcomed 68 volunteers who shared their time and talent this year.
SENIOR CAMP Grades 3-8
Training in Leadership
Leadership development is at the core of the Senior Camp experience Campers build confidence and responsibility through team challenges, group initiatives, and opportunities to take on meaningful roles within camp These experiences empower campers to practice collaboration, communication, and decision-making, helping them grow into positive role models both at camp and beyond
Physical Activity
Every day at Senior Camp is filled with movement Campers dive into daily recreational swimming, team sports, and take part in team-building games and challenges Their schedule includes fresh and exciting weekly specials - think gaga, soccer instruction and spirited camp games that foster coordination, resilience, and camaraderie in a fun, inclusive environment
True Life Adventures
Campers dive into weekly True Life Adventures (TLAs) that go beyond fun to inspire discovery and growth . A new theme is introduced weekly - ranging from Acting & Improv to hands-on projects like DIY Camp Carnival or Digital Music Production. These real-world–inspired experiences ignite creativity, encourage teamwork, and provide campers with meaningful opportunities to explore new interests, develop skills, and uncover passions.
of campers agreed or strongly agreed that they had a positive relationship with a counselor or staff member
of campers said they feel safe at camp, reinforcing our commitment to creating a secure, nurturing environment.
Grades 1-8
Multi-Sport Programming
Sports Camp gives campers the chance to play a wide variety of sports each week, from basketball, soccer, and baseball/softball to lacrosse, flag football, and more With expert coaching and ageappropriate instruction, every camper can build skills, gain confidence, and enjoy the fun of trying new sports
Daily Teamwork
Through daily games, relays, and camp-wide competitions, campers learn the importance of cooperation and communication Working together toward a shared goal builds trust, camaraderie, and a strong sense of team spirit.
Leadership in Motion
Sports Camp also empowers campers to step into leadership roles Whether guiding teammates, setting an example of sportsmanship, or taking on responsibilities during events like the World League Championship Series, campers build confidence and develop the skills to lead both on and off the field
86% 86% of Dream Camp High School students reported feeling better prepared to apply for a job
HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM
In the summer of 2025, Dream Camp took a significant step forward in enhancing our high school programming, advancing our mission to equip students in grades 9–12 with the tools they need for college and career success, leadership development, and workforce readiness. For the first time in our 24-year history, we extended our high school program from five to six weeks. This added week created expanded opportunities for onboarding, training, mentorship, and hands-on learning, allowing our Interns to dive deeper into their roles and develop a stronger foundation for applying their skills in real-world settings Our two-tiered high school model continued to evolve:
96% 96% attendance rate for Dream Camp's High School students in 2024
81% 81% of Dream Camp High School students reported experiencing something new during their internship
Rising 9th graders participated in Senior Camp, where they stepped into emerging leadership roles and shadowed high school Interns to gain insight into the next phase of their Dream Camp experience Through the Bridge Program, they discovered their strengths, developed foundational leadership skills, and began setting both short-term and long-term personal goals
9th Grade Bridge Program 10th-12th Grade Internship Corps
Participation in the Internship Program grew to 21 paid Interns, up from 17 the previous summer. These students made meaningful contributions across a variety of departments, including teaching support, coaching, logistics, and operations. In addition to receiving weekly feedback and engaging in daily reflection, Interns developed valuable job skills that will serve them well beyond camp.
PROGRAM FACTS AND FIGURES
Top 3 things parents/guardians appreciate: Top 3 things parents/guardians appreciate:
1. Positive relationships with staff
2. My child's emotional and social growth
3. The accessibility of program (transportation included)
CELEBRATING OUR DREAM CATCHERS
Ichiban Award Winner, ESF Camps – Friends Select School Former Dream Camp Scholar
“Working at ESF Camps has truly changed my life for the better. From the moment of my first interview, I felt the organization’s trust in me and that made all the difference Coming from a very different work environment, it was amazing to join a team and a camp that genuinely cares about you Being recognized with the Ichiban Award this year was an incredible honor I was challenged, supported, and ultimately given the tools to succeed and that’s something I’ll always carry with me”
JAMIR ELEBY-WRIGHT
JEREMIAH BLOUNT
HighSchoolIntern,ESFDreamCamp-FriendsSelectSchool
“MyexperienceasaProductionAssistantatESFDreamCamp hasbeenoneofthemostrewardingopportunitiesI’vehad I enjoyedbeingabletohelpinallareasofcamp from deliveringsnacksandlunchestocampers,tokeepingcamp spacescleanandsafe,tomonitoringinventorysothat everythingransmoothly Whatmeantthemosttomewas buildinglastingrelationshipswithcampers,staff,andeven parents.Eachdaygavemeachancetosupportcampina differentway,andIlovedknowingthatmyworkhelpedcreatea positiveexperienceforeveryoneatDreamCamp.”
“Being a Dream Camp camper shaped so much of who I am Back then, I was the one receiving joy and fun from the counselors Now, as a coach, I have the chance to create that same joy for the next generation. It feels incredible to be on the other side, giving back the energy and support I once received. That full-circle experience means everything to me.” JARED WHITFIELD
“Dream Camp was such an amazing experience for my son, it opened him up to things that he have never done before. He was so happy and he enjoyed himself. He specifically kept talking about cup stacking class and swimming. My son now knows how to swim without a life jacket. I am so thankful Before he came to camp, he had a bad experience at other camps and he was not happy about going this year but once he came to Dream Camp, it changed his life and he is happy and excited for next year. This Camp has gave my son confidence in himself and showed him friendship and fun. And him receiving all the awards that he did was so special. Thank you so much.”
- Jaquaya (parent)
SPECIAL EVENTS
Dream Camp hosts special programs throughout the year, made possible by the generosity of our donors and supporters. Two cherished traditions are our Thanksgiving meals and the December "Miracle on West," which uplift families year after year. We focus on those who could use extra support during the holidays, fulfilling the wishes of every member of the household. These events are gifts that keep on giving, as the warmth and care provided continue to resonate with families long after the holidays. Knowing they are seen, supported, and valued is what truly makes a lasting impact.
81% 81%
95% 95%
of Dream Campers agreed or strongly agreed that they had the opportunity to try new things, demonstrating how Dream Camp opens doors to exploration and growth, crucial to ensuring or campers experience things they may not experience at their school, home or community.
of Dream Campers shared that they either made new friends or strengthened existing friendships, highlighting the power of Dream Camp in building meaningful relationships and fostering community.
“This camp is like a home for me. All the people that I met are kind to me and they keep me safe.“
- Sonny (camper)
PROGRAM PARTNERS
Since early 2025, SWAG Soccer has brought professional coaching to Dream Camp programs. In the After School Academy, coaches visited twice a week, and during summer camp, every camper in grades 1–9 received weekly instruction. Beyond soccer skills, sessions emphasized fitness, agility, balance, strength, sportsmanship, and healthy competition, helping students build confidence and lifelong athletic skills.
Thanks to a generous donor & a new partnership with Reading Allowed, students in our After School Academy made remarkable progress, with several achieving more than a year’s growth in multiple literacy areas & one advancing over two years in oral fluency during the 7 month engagement. One student, initially unable to take assessments, successfully completed them by spring showing strong improvement.
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
Our Generous Donors September 1, 2024 - August 31, 2025
The Dream Makers
$200,000+
Pine Street Group, LP
Diamond Level
$100,000-$199,999
David R Clare and Margaret C Clare Foundation
Susan Smith and Martin Murphy
Platinum Level
$50,000-$99,999
Roger and Joslyne Braunfeld
David and Rhonda Cohen
Graham Partners, Inc
The Hamilton Family Charitable Trust
Gold Level
$25,000-$49,999
Silver Level
$10,000-$24,999
Berstein Family Fund
DiBona Family Foundation
The McLean Contributionship
Patricia Kind Family Foundation
Trailblazers
$2,000-$4,999
*Andy Levin
Christian R. & Mary F. Lindback Foundation
The Christopher Ludwick Foundation
Dolfinger-McMahon Foundation
Zwagil Foundation
Explorers
$250-$1,999
Gregory Ackerman
Bryan Carter
*Richard Grossman
Paul J Hirsch
Lisa Hoffman
Karen Hughes
The Landegger Charitable Foundation, Inc.
Annette & Tony Madison
Morris Naish
Stewart Family Foundation
Friends of Dream Camp
Up to $249
Mahlon Bierly
Hillary Crowley
Kate DiVasto
Evan Klinefelter
Simone Marinesi
Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD)
Scott St Germain*
Susan Smith & Martin Murphy
Bronze Level
$5,000-$9,999
The 1830 Foundation
Keim Family Foundation
The Nerney Family Foundation
Step Into Swim
Taylor Menser
Janet Neely
Lucille Santo
Barry Silver
Monica Williams
*These donations were made to the Edward Morris Scholarship Fund
OUTLOOK FOR 2025-26
With an unwavering commitment to shaping brighter futures, Dream Camp Philadelphia is proud to strengthen and expand our support for students as they transition through elementary, middle and high school and then into college, careers, and adulthood As we look ahead, we are deepening our investment in programs that provide real-world skills, career exploration, mentorship, and postsecondary planning to ensure every camper is prepared for life beyond the classroom
Thanks to a $23,000 grant from The McLean Contributionship, we have also expanded STEM enrichment across all age groups through new technology such as LEGO® Robotics, Cricut™, and Ableton Move music production-tools that spark creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning
The coming year holds exciting promise as we continue to grow a more inclusive, impactful program-one that equips each student with the confidence, tools, and opportunities they need to thrive in the next chapter of their lives Together, we are opening doors, removing barriers, and creating pathways to success for Philadelphia’s next generation of leaders.
EXECUTIVE STAFF BOARD MEMBERS
Michael J. Rouse
Co-Founder & Executive Director
David Gold
Chief Financial Officer
Kath Cloran
Managing Director
Lafay Johnson
Program Director
Roger Braunfeld, Board Chair
William Bowie
Bryan Carter
Rhonda Cohen
Sylvia DiBona
Timothy Filewicz
Adam Landau
Steve Piltch
Michael J. Rouse
William Stewart III
Dr. Nat Williams
“You guys were amazing! This was new to us and everything went smoothly and she loved it.
The staff were great and she raved about how friendly they all were daily. Thank you guys so much!!“ - Dominique (parent)
The Mission of Dream Camp Summer Program and After School Academy is to transform the lives of youth living in historically under-resourced communities through innovative yearlong programs that nurture the individual, educate the mind and inspire the spirit.
We strive to break the cycle of generational poverty in historically underresourced communities by teaching children to create successful pathways for themselves. Dream Camp empowers youth to become future leaders and contributors to the city.
