Camp Compass
Camp Compass is a free, summer learning program for underserved elementary students of Springfield, Illinois District 186 Public Schools. Camp Compass is designed to prevent summer learning loss and improve reading and math skills.
The purpose of Camp Compass:
Our purpose is to provide a high-quality summer experience for children who might not otherwise have somewhere to go. We are committed to closing the achievement and opportunity gaps that exist between low-income students and their higher-income peers.
How do we accomplish this?
We utilize best practices for out-of-school time (OST) programming through a balance of academic and enrichment activities. We focus on the whole child and work to intentionally remove barriers that might otherwise prevent a child from participating in a summer program.
Camp Compass history and growth:
Camp Compass began in 2013, serving 54 children in Springfield. The program has grown every year since then. 2024 was our biggest year ever, serving over 900 children!
2024 by the numbers…
Enrichment
Campers participate in enrichment activities.
Through these activities, kids find hidden talents, develop skills, and have memorable summer experiences they might not otherwise have.
Academic
Licensed teachers instruct students in literacy and math.
Small class sizes, differentiated instruction, and licensed teachers are key to stopping summer learning loss and improving core academic skills.
2024 was our biggest year to date!
Camp Compass history and growth:
Camp Compass began in 2013, serving 54 children in Springfield. Every year since then, the program has grown.
This was our biggest year ever, serving over 900 children!
What will 2025 look like?
Due to the expiration of the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund, the future of Camp Compass at this scale is uncertain. In order to continue to serve over 750 kids each year, new funding sources are needed.
Do you want to be a champion for Camp Compass?
If you would like to learn more and get involved in helping children who are underserved by our community, contact Brandy Stabler, Director of Development at brandy@compassforkids.org or 217-481-4651.
2024 Stats:
- 924 Campers between kindergarten and fifth grade from all 22 Springfield Public Schools – District 186 Elementary Schools.
- 37,824 Hours of academic instruction in math and literacy by certified teachers
- 7 Sites : Addams | Black Hawk | Dubois | Enos | Harvard Park | Owen Marsh | Matheny-Withrow | Ridgely
- 44 Community Partners teaching the kids about art, positive thinking, astronomy, finances, exotic animals, STEM, etc.
- 11 Field Trips including bowling, rollerskating, swimming, BounceTag, Gymnastics Zone, Springfield Clinic Pediatrics, and Memorial Wellness Center
- 449 SEL Lessons taught weekly to the kids by incredible camp counselors using the “Leader in Me” social-emotional learning curriculum.
- 45,814 Meals provided to the kids, including daily breakfast and lunch and the weekly Backpack Feeding Program for the weekends.
- 855+ Volunteer Hours generously contributed by 35 people who had a wonderful influence on each and every child.
Find out more about how you can help Camp Compass continue to make an impact on the lives of children in Springfield, Illinois. Contact Brandy Stabler, Director of Development, brandy@compassforkids.org for more information.
