Boosting Social-Emotional Health at Sherwood Forest Camp Through Grant Support

At Sherwood Forest Camp in St. Louis, Missouri, ensuring the emotional well-being of campers is just as important as offering outdoor adventures. Through the support of The Hambrick Foundation, the organization’s Camper Care Team will be able to expand its efforts by adding new tools and supplies to better serve the diverse needs of campers.

The Camper Care Team works to provide individualized support for youth experiencing behavioral and mental health challenges, including those with anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, or other diagnoses. The team conducts daily check-ins, creates personalized support plans, and offers guidance for staff working directly with campers. A designated Camper Care space is available for any child needing a moment to reset, recharge, or talk with a trusted adult.

The grant will help supply Camper Care and Siesta Boxes, which offer sensory and emotional regulation tools tailored to individual needs. These resources play a critical role in helping campers manage emotions, form connections, and engage in camp activities in meaningful ways.

"The number of youth presenting with social-emotional and behavioral health needs has been increasing over the past several years, particularly since the pandemic," wrote Kate McGilly in the grant application. "The purchased materials will help the youth that access Camper Care resources derive the maximum benefits from camp, including growing in their social-emotional learning, making friends with peers and trusted adults, and developing an affinity for nature."

McGilly added that approximately 15 percent of Sherwood Forest campers have formal mental health diagnoses, and that number has continued to grow. By investing in Camper Care resources, the camp ensures all children have the support they need to thrive socially, emotionally, and developmentally.

We are honored to partner with Sherwood Forest in its mission to foster resilience and lifelong skills in youth, one summer at a time.