Camp Butterfly

THE CAMP MISSION

Camp Butterfly is a nonprofit organization based in Chicago dedicated to the holistic development of girls of African descent. By providing girls a safe space to explore, embrace and understand their unique identity and purpose, we hope to foster a dedication to emotional healing, service, cultural awareness and positive self identity.

We hope to foster a dedication to service and emotional healing as we prepare our girls to participate in a global village.

“The Chrysalis Experience”

(Designed specifically for first time campers only)
The camp utilizes the culturally sensitive Risk-Reduction Education curriculum, “If the Caterpillar Only Knew...” (created by the organization, Project Butterfly.) Designed with the girl of African descent in mind, this action packed, invigorating week introduces the concept of the Butterfly as a symbol for transformation and emphasizes self-awareness, self-acceptance, and responsibility as tools for change.

During our summer sessions, teenaged girls ages 11-17, from across the country participate in sessions held at our camp sites in rural Michigan. The camp program combines the carefree adventures of typical “sleep-away” camps in a compassionate and culturally rich atmosphere.

Camp days end with exciting all-camp activities such as campfires, “Old school/New school” dance parties, late night “flashlight tag”, and scavenger hunts. Nights in the cabins are often filled with voices and laughter, discussing topics ranging from their funniest memories of the day to their personal hopes and fears. We provide a safe environment where girls are encouraged to fully engage their “highest” self, along with embracing, nurturing and celebrating their “inner child”.

Monarch Leadership Camp
(designed for camp alumni / returning campers only)

Welcoming girls who have participated in prior years, this sleep-away 3-day camp, is designed to foster and enhance team building and other leadership skills. Our Monarch Leadership Camp is more physical in nature with Rock Climbing, Swimming, River Walks, Crate Stacking, Hiking, Challenge Hikes, Night Hikes, Mud Volleyball (yes, mud volleyball), Sand Volleyball, Arts & Crafts, Canoeing, Biking, Fishing and more!!!

Girls Gone Green

There has been a global push in recent years to “Go Green” and “Save the Earth.” New technologies, initiatives and programs are proposed and implemented everyday with the sole purpose of creating more environmentally conscious citizens. But what does going green really mean, especially when viewed from the perspective of inner city youth, in particular females? Why is going green so important?

* Teach girls environmental literacy

* Reconnect participants to their
natural surroundings

* Weave the connection between the environment and the participant

* Encourage participants to look at their community, city and the world through an engendered environmental lens of awareness, advocacy and action


Camp Butterfly’s “Cocoon Me” Circles

To meet the growing demand to service more girls through our organization, Camp Butterfly institute “Cocoon Me” Circles across the United States and eventually abroad. Facilitated by women who have been trained in Project Butterfly, Inc.’s methodology, approach and curriculum, Camp Butterfly’s “Cocoon Me” Circles provide safe, sacred spaces where girls can express themselves and be heard.