Wheat Ridge’s Summer Sun Camp program received a $10,000 grant from the Jeffco Open Space Foundation’s Nature’s Next Stewards (NNS) program to support a second weekly field trip for all campers throughout the summer at no additional cost to the participating families.
Each week, the second field trip will take campers to outdoor recreation sites along the Front Range and incorporate outdoor education components.
“Thanks to the generous support of the Jeffco Open Space Foundation’s Nature’s Next Stewards program, we are able to enhance our beloved Summer Sun Camp experience and provide even more opportunities for our campers to explore the natural beauty of our region. These field trips will not only create lasting memories but also foster a deep love and respect for the outdoors in our young campers, ensuring they become the next generation of environmental stewards,” said Mayor Pro Tem Korey Stites.
This year, Wheat Ridge’s Summer Sun Camp program was also able to expand by 45% bringing the total number of campers from 66 to 96.
This project was made possible with funding from Mile High Stadium District, Jefferson County and Jeffco Open Space Foundation. The Nature’s Next Stewards grant program is designed to inspire organizations to give kids quality outdoor experiences that will cause them to love and care for nature and public lands. The NNS program has been graciously funded by individual and business donations and by the Jefferson County Commissioners allocating a portion of the Denver Broncos sale proceeds (from the Metropolitan Football Stadium District) to this endeavor.