As students, families, and educators prepare for the start of a new school year, many children and adolescents may still be reminiscing about the new friendships, enriching experiences, and valuable lessons summer camp provided. For young campers, participating in a summer camp program offers unforgettable opportunities to explore the natural world, develop problem-solving and leadership skills, learn the importance of teamwork and resilience, and build confidence and camaraderie.
Photo by Challen Brown.
For many years, The Columbus Foundation has annually supported the efforts of central Ohio nonprofit organizations that provide meaningful experiences to local youth during the summer months.
One such place is Camp Mary Orton. Located in northern Franklin County, Camp Mary Orton is owned and operated by Godman Guild Association, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the social and economic mobility of central Ohio residents. Named in honor of the wife of Edward Orton, Jr.—a Godman Guild board member who, in 1910, generously donated land to the organization, which is now part of the camp—Camp Mary Orton serves the community through a variety of programs, including day camps during the summer months.
Camp Mary Orton offers three unique summer day camp programs, each serving youth with a wide range of activities, from swimming lessons and archery to financial literacy and health education courses. The camp also includes high-adventure elements, such as zip lining, climbing walls, and high ropes courses designed to challenge campers to step outside of their comfort zones and support their peers.
As staff at Camp Marty Orton explained, these activities not only provide local youth entertainment and excitement in a safe, supportive environment, but also encourage personal development and community building among the campers.
“Summer camps offer a well-rounded experience that enriches the lives of local youth by promoting personal growth, social interaction, a deeper connection with nature, and continuous learning,” the camp staff reported. “One of the many successes of Camp Mary Orton is its ability to leave a lifelong positive impact on our campers.”
Photos by Challen Brown, with select photos provided courtesy of Camp Mary Orton.
Over the years, The Columbus Foundation has awarded numerous grants to Godman Guild to support Camp Mary Orton, including its IgniteU – Summer Youth Enrichment Program (SYEP). Serving youth in grades K-8, SYEP is an eight-week day camp that provides a comprehensive summer camp experience with activities such as nature exploration, field games, hiking, swimming, team-building exercises, music therapy, career exploration, and more. Importantly, the program also aims to bridge the summer learning gap by integrating educational activities that help maintain and improve academic skills, including reading, science, technology, engineering, and math.
To ensure that local youth can enjoy camp regardless of family income or resources, SYEP provides transportation to Camp Mary Orton, as well as meals and snacks. Many campers enrolled in SYEP also receive scholarships and discounts to participate in the program at a reduced cost.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to participate in activities that foster their individual and social development, build their confidence and skills, and connect them to nature and their peers,” said Dr. Mark A. Lomax, II, Director of Arts & Generational Grantmaking at The Columbus Foundation. “The Columbus Foundation is proud to provide sustained investments to organizations like the Godman Guild Association that offer inclusive and enriching summer camp experiences to youth in our region.”
For young campers, Camp Mary Orton is not just a place filled with fun, learning, and adventure. Surrounded by a team of camp counselors who are committed to fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion, campers not only feel valued and supported, but often develop a lifelong connection to Camp Mary Orton.
“Many of our former campers return as both staff and later as parents choosing to send their own children to our camp, creating a multi-generational shared experience,” the camp staff explained. “This enduring connection highlights the deep and lasting influence that the Godman Guild Association has on families throughout our community.”
