On July 9, the Jim Thorpe Rotary Club held a “Breakfast with the Campers” to thank the 35 businesses/individuals who sponsored the 2026 camp. Sponsors were provided a breakfast, a 2026 camp T-shirt and a certificate of appreciation.

The Rotary Club has been operating a Summer Camp for 30 years, providing a safe and healthy environment for 125 Jim Thorpe Area School District children who recently completed kindergarten through 5th grade. The Jim Thorpe Rotary Club, whose motto is “Service Above Self,” has been a champion for youth programs.

Since the inception of the summer camp, approximately 4,500 children have been served.

Summer camp activities include STEM activities, arts, crafts, games, sports and theme days. Children currently receive free breakfast and lunch, which is extremely important in a county with high food insecurity.

The goals of the program include keeping children safe, supporting working families and inspiring learning. The goals are achieved by providing enrichment activities that sustain the healthy development of children through support from nurturing and caring adults. Success is measured by a yearly parent evaluation and parent anecdotal documentation.

The program is for eight weeks (Monday through Thursday) beginning in June and ending in August; camp hours are 8:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. The camp is located at the Jim Thorpe Area High School, and the children have access to Memorial Park. Staffing includes two certified teachers, a paraprofessional, three teachers in training and five support staff.

The program has been a lifesaver to families.

A mother of one of the children who was enrolled in the program said, “My husband and I both work, so the camp is essential to our family. I feel so grateful for this camp and everyone that works to make it a fun, positive educational program for my child.”