About the Camp
Created to offer Boston children a true summer camp experience, Camp Harbor View is an initiative of the not-for-profit Camp Harbor View Foundation, Inc. in partnership with the City of Boston and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston.
We offer close to 800 children ages 11 to 14 living in Boston’s at-risk neighborhoods the opportunity to leave the city during the day and participate in a four-week summer camp program. Offering the traditional activities that summer camp is known for, such as hiking, arts and crafts, sports and swimming, Camp Harbor View also includes innovative programs that strive to build children’s confidence and leadership strengths. Collaboration with our Program Partners provides the campers the opportunity for learning and discovery through a wide range of programs and activities brought to us by experts in their field.
Campers can attend one of two four-week long sessions during the months of July and August. Bus transportation is provided at no additional cost to families, picking campers up at 14 locations throughout Boston and departing camp each night following the evening meal. Tuition for one camper is just $5 per four week session.
Once campers age out of the program, they are eligible to apply to the Camp Harbor View Leader-in-Training (LIT) program. The LIT program keeps alumni campers ages 15 – 17 years old connected to Camp Harbor View through job readiness, training, college preparation and fun, both during summer camp sessions and year-round.
Beyond the summer, Camp Harbor View strives to continue and strengthen our relationship with all our campers and their families by maintaining contact through monthly camper reunions, activities and The Camp Harbor View Parent Connection group.
Our hope is to bring joy into each of the lives the camp touches and introduce the campers to new passions and skills they would not otherwise be aware of, striving to inspire them in their school years and beyond.
Camp History
It all started with a conversation
The idea for Camp Harbor View came about during a conversation between Mayor Menino and Jack Connors in the Winter of 2007.
The Mayor expressed concern with the fact that violence among teenagers was a growing problem in many of the city’s neighborhoods. He commented that the problem was particularly bad during the summer months when schools were out. He suggested that an organized program where boys and girls could go every day, one that provided a supportive, structured environment might help alleviate this problem. He also explained, “We have to get to these kids before they reach the age of 15.”
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The Camp Harbor View Foundation
#1 rule is HAVE FUN.
The Camp Harbor View Foundation is a private, not-for-profit corporation established in March 2007 for the purpose of developing and supporting Camp Harbor View.
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Programs and Partners
We couldn’t do it without them
At Camp Harbor View, it’s important that every camper has the ability to experience a wide variety of activities that will allow him or her to learn and grow. That’s why campers are encouraged to make their own choices, discover their passions and be themselves while having fun.
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