Camp Champions

For Ruth, Camp was a really important part of growing up, and an important part of who she is as an adult:

Anybody who knows me will tell you I love Camp Onas. It was a second home to me; I started going when I was nine and I basically went there every summer until I was in my 20s.

As a camper I had so much fun and I had tons of friends, and as a counselor I came into my own at Onas. I always just felt really comfortable, so I was always outgoing, and free to be myself. I probably felt more comfortable there than I feel anywhere else in the world.

In June 2020, the George Floyd protests were top-of-mind for Ruth and Lizzie when they sat down to consider the organizations they wanted to support, and how their donations could make the biggest difference:

We both went to school for public administration, so we both have an academic background in nonprofit management. We understand that monthly gifts are what organizations really need, because they are efficient and help organizations plan better, knowing they have consistent support.

Ruth and Lizzie wanted to focus on organizations making an on-the-ground difference, especially around issues of equality, equity and racial justice. Onas made their list because of its commitment to equitable access: Keeping tuition lower than most camps and offering camperships when families need them.

Ruth’s last summer at camp was in 2008, but to this day the friendships she made at Onas are an important part of her life. Like many alumni, Ruth has noted that the majority of her lifelong Onas friends are actively engaged in their communities, working to make our world a better one.

I’m always convincing my non-Camp friends to send their kids to Onas and I 100% plan on sending my kids to Onas. I want Camp Onas to be a part of their childhood, and a part of the adults they become.

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