History
Our History
June 10, 2026, marks ten years since Compass for Kids officially became a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. What began as a mission to support kids has grown into a community of students, families, volunteers, donors, and partners all working together to help children reach their full potential.
Although Compass for Kids has operated as an independent not-for-profit for the past ten years, our roots go back to 2011. Over the last fifteen years, we have been able to provide mentoring, learning, laughter, and life-changing connections for thousands of children.
2011 — A Mission Begins
Molly Berendt Grogan founded Compass as a ministry of Douglas Avenue United Methodist Church, with inspiration and encouragement from Reverend Julia Melgreen. What began as a small after-school program serving 35 students experiencing homelessness from Dubois Elementary School quickly grew into a movement focused on removing barriers and expanding opportunities for kids and families.
2012 — Growing Across Springfield
With support from United Way of Central Illinois and the Family Service Center, Compass expanded to multiple schools throughout Springfield using a unique volunteer-driven model rooted in community partnerships.
2013 — Camp Compass Begins
Compass launched Camp Compass, serving 54 children in its first summer, and went on to create Sangamon County’s first Backpack Feeding Program to help fight weekend hunger for local children.
2016 — Officially Becoming Compass for Kids
Compass for Kids became an independent 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Founder Molly Berendt Grogan became Executive Director, Cindy Thayer was hired as Assistant Director, and a dedicated founding board helped launch the organization into its next chapter.
2017–2018 — New Programs & New Possibilities
Camp Compass continued to grow, surpassing 100 campers. Club Compass was rebranded, Camp Care-A-Lot joined the Compass family, and innovative leadership and enrichment opportunities expanded for students.
2019 — A Major Expansion
Camp Compass became Springfield Public Schools – District 186’s summer learning provider, serving 268 children in one summer.
2020–2022 — Rising to Meet the Moment
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Compass for Kids adapted quickly to meet the needs of our children and families, who needed resources and support more than ever. Our small, nimble organization responded with high-quality virtual (and later hybrid) programming, including weekly deliveries of groceries, books, and enrichment activities.
2023 — A Permanent Home
Compass for Kids purchased its headquarters at 1201 S. 4th Street and launched the Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) for teens and alumni. Camp Compass grew to 768 children across five locations.
2024 — National Recognition & Historic Growth
Compass served a record-breaking 924 children across seven Camp Compass sites. The organization received national recognition from the U.S. Department of Education, and a $1 million gift was given by the A.A. Harvey Foundation to seed an endowment fund at the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln.
2025 — Community Support Fuels the Future
Compass for Kids received the Organization of the Year Award at the Good As Gold Awards. Community support, including the incredible India Night fundraiser by the Asian Indian Women’s Organization, helped fund expanded transportation for field trips and access to programming.
2026 — Celebrating 10 Official Years
June 10, 2026, Compass for Kids celebrates 10 years as an independent nonprofit organization while continuing its mission of opportunity, community, and empowerment. Camp Compass is expected to serve approximately 450 children across three sites as the journey continues.
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