For the past 130 years Camp Courant has served as a tribute to the power of community and the timeless joy of childhood.
The summer camp is a sanctuary for inner-city children, providing them with a safe space to learn, grow, and, most importantly, simply be kids.
Established in 1894 from a fund set up by the Hartford Courant and reorganized in 1985 as a separate nonprofit, Camp Courant is the oldest and largest free summer day camp in the United States.
"The history here is incredible," says Corrianne Chipello, the camp’s executive director and CEO. "To have an organization thrive for 130 years speaks volumes about the dedication of our staff and the support of our community."
The camp’s longevity is a testament to the commitment of its supporters and staff, many of whom return year after year, Chipello says.
"We have staff members who have been with us for decades. Most of them are full-time teachers who spend their summers with us, not for the pay, but for the kids and the mission we serve. That kind of dedication is truly remarkable."
Despite its storied history, Camp Courant faces significant financial challenges.
"We rely entirely on donations to operate, and securing those funds has become increasingly difficult,"Corrianne explains. "Inflation has hit everyone hard, and our expenses continue to rise. We’ve had to get creative to sustain our mission."
One innovative solution has been the introduction of a social enterprise in partnership with the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving.
"We were selected as one of the Entrepreneurial Eight, which is a huge honor," Corrianne says. "We’re now renting out our beautiful 36-acre facility in Farmington for events like family gatherings, corporate retreats, weddings, and more. Every dollar from these rentals goes directly back into funding the camp."
Another way the camp underwrites its budget is with its annual fundraiser, Buddy Bash, slated for Sept. 20 this year.
More than just a fundraising event, Buddy Bash celebrates community and the collective effort to support Hartford’s youth. Corrianne says.
"It’s a Garden Party theme combining the elegance of a high-end event with a laid-back, fun atmosphere. This year, to celebrate our 130th anniversary, the theme is 'Hope Grows Here,' and it will be a party like no other." An event not to be missed, the gala will feature food and drink from area best restaurants, great entertainment, and a silent auction. More information about purchasing tickets, sponsorships, or donating auction items can be found at campcourant.org
Corrianne's vision for Camp Courant is clear: continued growth, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the children of Hartford.
"Support is crucial," she emphasizes. "We’ve been here for 130 years and want to be here for 130 more. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a difference. It costs $100 a day per camper, and we serve 750 kids daily for six weeks. That math adds up quickly, but so does the impact of every dollar."
Camp Courant not only continues to thrive but also evolves to meet the community's changing needs. For the children of Hartford, the camp is a place of joy, learning, and boundless possibilities—a legacy that will undoubtedly endure for generations to come. To learn more, visit campcourant.org.