Change Summer partners with top-performing charter school networks to deliver high-quality, customized summer experiences for elementary and middle school students. In Chicago, we’re collaborating with LEARN Charter Schools and ReGeneration Schools—two leading networks that will play a central role in launching our newest program, Camp Ironwood, in Summer 2025.

Enriching summer experiences can profoundly influence young adults’ development across many domains. Change Summer recognizes that unequal access to high-quality summer programming is a solvable problem. Change Summer provides students from under-resourced communities with a summer experience that increases independence, curiosity, confidence, and responsibility – all critical skills for a successful future.

At Change Summer, we believe every young person deserves the chance to grow, explore, and thrive during their summer break. Yet, for too many students from under-resourced communities, these opportunities remain out of reach. That’s where we come in—turning summer into a season of discovery and growth. The impact speaks for itself:

90% of campers made measurable gains in social and emotional skills—foundational for success in school, work, and life.
87% of campers said they engaged in fun, meaningful experiences that left them energized and excited for what’s next.

Below are key giving impact levels, highlighting the tangible difference your support can make:

$1,000: Provides clothing and bedding for one camper
$2,500: Life-changing summer experience for one camper
$5,000: Life-changing summer experience for two campers
$10,000: Funds a Senior Leadership position at camp
$15,000: Full set of equipment and swag for an entire camp
$20,000: One out-of-camp field trip for an entire camp

Every dollar invested in Change Summer helps us create transformative opportunities for young people, empowering them to develop confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills. Your generosity ensures that more students have access to an unforgettable summer that shapes their futures.

Thank you for your support in making this impact possible!

Chicago May Event Hosted by Blake and Lauren Harper

By Change Summer

Chicago May Event Hosted by Blake and Lauren Harper