The MISSION of WAYFINDERS (formerly Bruce Irons Camp Fund) is to ignite students’ potential by expanding their confidence, connections, and horizons. We achieve this through summer camp experiences, year-round enrichment programs, and mentor relationships for self-motivated, underserved students. Our VISION is that every child, regardless of zip code, has access to transformative life experiences through camp, mentorship, and educational opportunities. Our CORE VALUES are that: - Every student possesses unique potential that must be identified, encouraged, and amplified. - Zip code and parental wealth should not decide children’s destinies. - Student support must be early, consistent, and ongoing. - Nature is a powerful teacher. - Adventure and achievement build confidence and courage. - Enriching summer experiences should not be a luxury. - Broadening a child’s social network expands their choices and aspirations. - Everyone needs a mentor to help them navigate their life. - Quality mentoring transforms both students and mentors. - Our students’ families are partners and allies who deserve our respect. - Diversity cultivates crucial understanding and empathy across differences. - Equity is year-round, long-term work that requires collaborative community partnerships.
- We have grown from sending 18 students to summer camp in 2006 to 160 in 2022.
- We have a team of 130+ mentors who form positive relationships with our students and families.
- 2022 was our 34th year of providing life-changing summer camp experiences to low-income CMS students.