90 schools served with Dream Camp programming 2023-2024 AT A
189 campers participated in Dream Camp programs
345 hours of programming during those critical outside of school time hours
89% of campers returned to Dream Camp this year
Dear ESF Dream Camp Trinity Supporters and Friends,
At ESF Dream Camp at Trinity College, we are deeply committed to making a lasting impact by building meaningful relationships with our campers and their families. Our long-standing partnership with Trinity College has been key to our continued success, giving us the optimism and confidence to deliver exceptional experiences year after year.
In 2023-24, alongside our 27-year partnership with Trinity College and with the support of the State of Connecticut Department of Education, Dream Camp proudly provided more valuable opportunities for our campers to grow and thrive. On behalf of Paul Raether and the entire Dream Camp family, I extend my deepest gratitude for your generous support. You have been instrumental in safeguarding the health, safety, and future of Hartford’s youth, and we are incredibly thankful for your role in helping make our dreams a reality.
As we look to the future, we are excited for what lies ahead for Dream Camp and its incredible participants. Thank you, once again, for your unwavering support.
Warm regards,
Michael J. Rouse Executive Director
AFTER SCHOOL ACADEMY
1:3
Academic Support
A certified teacher provided personalized support to all campers during their daily academic block, helping them strengthen skills in reading, writing, and math, while fostering confidence and growth in a nurturing environment
Enrichment Activities
Campers immersed themselves in daily STEM, art, and theater-based activities, sparking creativity and curiosity Once a month, hands-on cooking experiences and larger-scale STEAM challenges brought the whole program together for community learning opportunities!
Social and Emotional Growth
Monthly staff training emphasized supporting the social and emotional growth of campers. Based on feedback from campers and families, we know that children feel safe, valued, and well cared for in our after-school program.
“Ilovedthestaff. Theywereallfriendly andalwaysrespectful My childenjoyedtheprogram!”
138 of families rated their overall satisfaction in the After School Academy 5 out of 5 100% of families stated that they would recommend After School Academy to a friend 99%
“My son always arrives home very happy.
Total hours of programming per camper By interacting with other children he advanced his English!” Jose, Parent
DAY CAMP Grades 1-4
Academic Enrichment
Our Day Campers dove into daily “Project Discovery” with an exciting Mess Fest theme, sparking hands-on exploration and creativity. Campers also participated in grade-level tailored reading activities, ensuring a fun and educational experience for all!
Physical Activity
Each day, campers participated in physical education, developing skills in sports like swimming, soccer, basketball, wiffle ball, and more. Along the way, they learned invaluable life lessons in perseverance, sportsmanship, teamwork, and the importance of having fun!
Arts Exposure
Day Campers enjoyed daily crafts and Creative Performing Arts class, where they collaborated for production for their families Ca collaboration needed to bring a
100% staff was friendly and professional
SPORTSLAB Grades 5-11
Leadership Skill Building
In daily leadership class, campers developed leadership skills through team-building exercises They engaged in a variety of activities designed to encourage critical thinking, broaden their perspectives, and push them beyond their comfort zones
Multi-Sport Programming
Middle and high school campers enjoyed a wide range of sports, including volleyball, basketball, swimming, flag football, and handball Dream Camp aims to expose campers to diverse activities, encouraging them to develop new skills and try new things
Real Life Experiences
After learning basic kitchen safety, campers gained hands-on cooking experience through healthy, affordable recipes they can recreate confidently at home Creations included pancakes, french toast, and crudités to practice knife skills and safety
of families reported that Dream Camp genuinely cares about their campers and family
HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM
High school campers engaged in a dual experience while embracing the camp community and developing career readiness skills They cherished reconnecting with friends at Dream Camp while also confronting job readiness, gaining insights into the working world, and earning income This summer, Dream Camp seamlessly integrated these aspects, enabling high schoolers to deepen their connections with each other and the program by learning and working together as leaders
9th Grade Discovery Program
Incoming 9th graders had the chance to take part in SportsLab while also delving into leadership self-discovery The program allowed them to explore their strengths and leadership abilities, helping them in setting both shortterm and long-term goals Our 9th graders will move into our Youth Leadership Program next year and take the next steps in their development
10th-12th Grade Leadership Program
The stars of our Youth Leadership Program were our Dream Camp MentorsIn-Training. Each participant picked roles based on their interests, including positions such as junior counselor, specialist teachers’ aide, media specialist, and musical set design assistant. They were evaluated by their supervisors and received compensation for their contributions to the Dream Camp community. Additionally, their schedule included a dedicated time block for exploring their strengths, setting post-high school goals, and identifying the steps needed to achieve those goals
Program Facts and Figures
1. My child’s social and emotional growth
2. Positive relationships with staff
3. Serving all stages of my child’s life
Top 3 things parents/guardians appreciate: TOTAL
UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA Medical Field Summer Immersion
the
ESF Dream Camp was thrilled to sponsor two veteran high school campers for an intensive four-week summer program at
University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine. This unique program is designed specifically for high school juniors and seniors to gain valuable experience in the medical field.
Hailee Rodgers Class of 2026
School: Northwest Catholic High School Years at Dream Camp: 4
“The Penn Med Program had hands-on activities and seminars organized by professionals that offered me exposure to the challenges and rewards that are associated with medical professions This experience was so valuable and a great head start for college and my future career Interacting with my peers, faculty, and guest speakers created connections which will prove to be extremely beneficial for my future academic pursuits or career opportunities Overall, I know that attending this summer program served as an integrated experience, not only shaping my academic abilities but my own interpersonal development and social connections. ”
Liana Diaz Class of 2026
School: Academy of International Studies Years at Dream Camp: 7
“Participating in the Penn Med Program provided me the opportunity to not just see and hear about experiences, but participate in scenarios that strengthened my skills and abilities as a future medical professional Being away from home for the first time for an extended period taught me how to adapt to new environments, critically think, and promote my independence. This summer program exemplifies the importance of early exposure and provided me with a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to participate in a prominent program and break educational barriers.”
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
nded Dream Camp from the ages me a Mentor In Training, YLP, and nselor! Lizbeth graduated from a Bachelor's degree in Animal tly teaching Integrated Science at School. She noted, “Dream Camp mpact in my life. At Dream Camp ve confidence, leadership skills, multiple life skills. Dream Camp o who I am today: a confident, nt young person.”
From L to R: ESF Dream Camp CoFounder and Executive Director Michael Rouse, former camper and current camp Mom Shi-maine Holmes, Trinity Site Director Dan Swartz, Day Camp Bulldog McKenzie Williams, and Dream Camp CoFounder Paul Raether (Trinity ‘68)
am Camp from 2004 for creating a perfect maine continued her continues the Dream
Camp legacy by enrolling her daughter, McKenzie, who began in 2nd grade McKenzie’s favorite activities are swimming and STEM, and she was so excited to return that she enrolled in the After School Academy! For Shi-maine, her journey has come full circle as she watches her daughter enjoy the same transformative experiences she cherished She shared, “I would like my child to get the experience I received while attending Dream Camp in my younger years - exposure to sports, science, cooking, arts, dance, theater, and advancing her swimming skills!”
TRINITY CONNECTIONS
Ari Martinez, After School Mentor, Summer Camp Staff
“As a student at Trinity College, I work with Dream Camp because it is a program designed for a fun, educational setting that creates a safe haven for kids It means everything to be a trusted role model a young child can rely on and to breach the barriers children may have. I hope to come back each year to Dream Camp to be a consistent example of joy, love, and leadership to the students.”
PROGRAM PARTNERS
The Audubon Society visited camp each week. Day Campers were enthusiastic about learning about their environment and the animals that live right in their own neighborhoods!
DONORS AND SUPPORTERS
A very special thank you to Mr. Paul Raether (’68) and his family for their continued support of Dream Camp. We also thank:
Enterprise Mobility Foundation
Stanley D. and Hinda N. Fisher Fund
James and Megan Fitzsimmons
Hartford Foundation for Public Giving
Elizabeth M. Landon and Harriette M. Landon Charitable Foundation
Ralph F. Rosenberg
Susan Smith and Martin Murphy
State of Connecticut, Dept. of Education
State of Connecticut, USDA
Dream Camp hosts special programs hroughout the year, made possible by the enerosity of our donors and supporters. Two herished traditions are our Thanksgiving meals and the December "Miracle on West," which uplift families year after year We focus n those who could use extra support during he holidays, fulfilling the wishes of every member of the household. These events are ifts that keep on giving, as the warmth and are provided continue to resonate with amilies long after the holidays Knowing they re seen, supported, and valued is what truly k l ti i t
All campers in grades 5-12 enjoyed their Cooking Experience. This Big East group enjoyed learning how to make homemade pancakes!
OUTLOOK FOR 2024-25
With such a strong focus on the future, there's clear excitement and anticipation for the impactful initiatives and positive changes on the horizon Progressing forward will be the name of the game forging forward with new and exciting community partnerships and programs that will enhance our ability to make a difference and reach more deserving youth. Working together, we aim to create a supportive network that uplifts the next generation, particularly focusing on our oldest campers. We will continue to nurture connections with alumni and network to support and grow opportunities for our community. The coming year holds great promise, and by continuing to build up our campers with essential skills, confidence, and a robust support network, ESF Dream Camp at Trinity College will play a key role in fostering a brighter future for both our young people and our Hartford community.
“Amazingjob
withthecertificates, andthepositivemessagessent home.Ireallyenjoyedreading them Theflagfootball,Danielloved it!Catalinacamehome singingsongs everyday!” Melanie, Parent
MISSION
VISION
The Mission of Drea Program and After transform the lives historically under-re communities throu long programs that individual, educate the spirit. We strive to break t generational povert resourced commun children to create s themselves Dream
