Camp of Dreams operates programs for underserved 8-14 year olds from all over Chicago, and it is free for all participants. Most of our Dreamers live in neighborhoods in either the Southside or Westside of Chicago, but several families travel from the far suburbs (including NW Indiana) to participate in our programs. Camp of Dreams’ participants attend school in over 95 different school across the Chicagoland area, ranging from neighborhood schools to selective enrollment charter & magnet programs. On average, over 200 young people attend our Community Days and After School during the school-year, and approximately 70 youths attend our residential camp each summer.

We offer a wide range of classes to our participants for reasons beyond simply capturing their attention. Every one of our youth finds the courage to try new activities as well as developing an area in which he or she can excel. Whether it is art or athletics or music or science, Camp of Dreams seeks to build confidence by building the skills that justify such confidence. It has opened their minds up to experiences and opportunities they never thought of before, like canoeing and hiking. They are less inhibited and less critical,” said one parent about her children’s experience in the Camp of Dreams program. We also develop in our students the ability to work well with others, stressing teamwork throughout all of our classes. Perhaps most importantly, underlying all of our programs is an emphasis on accountability, on following through with oneself and with others. By developing students’ confidence, relationship skills and accountability, we help prepare the youth we serve for more challenging tasks, in their community, in their schools, and in other relationships and future experiences they encounter.

If you have any questions about whether you are eligible to participate in the school-year or summer program, please contact us at: info@campofdreams.org or 312-649-5551.

If you're interested in applying to Camp of Dreams, click on this link for an application:

Download an application (PDF)

What's New

Summer Day Camp Begins June 23rd, Register Today!

Camp of Dreams is looking for youth (ages 8-14) for our Summer Day Camp program! Explore your interests, make new friends, and be a Dreamer! Monday through Friday, June 23 - July 11, from 8:45am to 4:00pm. Call for more information. Hope to see you there!

Click here for more information and register form.

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