Added programming and dates part of Rainbow Camp's 10th anniversary

Rainbow Camp is marking its 10th anniversary in 2022 and to celebrate, added programming is available and the Camp will return to being a face-to-face experience.

The camp has space for 200 campers.

A full release on the Ranbow Camp 10th anniversary follows:

2022 will mark Rainbow Camp’s® 10th year of offering 2SLGBTQ+ inclusive camps. To mark the occasion, they are doubling the number of sessions and adding new programming for this summer.

Rainbow Camp® welcomes young people who are two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer questioning (2SLGBTQ+) and allied youth, no matter what their financial situation; as the camp offers financial assistance and grants for those in need. Situated in the wilderness east of Sault Ste. Marie, Ont, campers come from across North America.

According to Mallory Brennan, assistant to the executive director, there will be five sessions of Rainbow Camp for campers ages 12-14, and 15-17. “We’re excited to offer both one week and two week sessions this year,” Brennan said. “It’s a large increase from 2019 when we only ran three weeks.” Additionally, Rainbow Camp® is offering a Leader in Training (LIT) program for ages 17-18. The LIT program aims to foster skills in collaboration, accountability and leadership through the lens of camp counsellors and leaders in the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

There are three main streams of programming: education and activism, active outdoors, and artistic endeavours. They also have a new adventure week for those who want to take part in a week-long canoe trip, and no previous experience is necessary.

At the campers’ and parents’ request, Rainbow Camp has returned to a face-to-face experience this year. “COVID has created so much isolation that kids were hoping that we would have actual camp,” said Harry Stewart, co-founder with his husband Chris Southin. “Many parents are looking for a ‘safe place’ for their kids to be themselves.”

There is space for 200 campers for the summer 2022 season, and registration is now open, with camps running from July 3 to Aug. 21. Stephanie Voyer, Rainbow Camp Director, says “We believe camp can change a young person's life. “Rainbow Camp sells out annually, but hopeful campers can add their name to a waitlist if they aren’t able to register.”

For more details on how to register or donate, click here.