Camp Fire Afterschool in Bend Just Piloted Its First-Ever Art & Science Fair!

Parent looking at science fair board with her children.

The parent of a Camp Fire Afterschool youth learns about the science her child is doing at Camp Fire Afterschool's Art & Science Fair.

It was a couple of afternoons of magical discovery, creativity, and heartfelt goodbyes at Camp Fire Central Oregon’s first-ever Art & Science Fair, piloted just this spring at its two Bend-based Camp Fire Afterschool (CFA) locations. Bursting with color, curiosity, and community spirit, each fair showcased the vibrant minds and imaginations of Camp Fire youth through a dazzling display of student-made art and hands-on science exhibits.

Each fair celebrated what Camp Fire kids have been working on at CFA — from constructing butterflies with moving wings to working with electricity, miniature water irrigation systems, watercolors, themed dioramas, and more! (See more pictures at the end of this story!) Projects reflected the kids' growing skills, confidence, and the joyful learning that happens at CFA once the school bell rings and the program fun begins.

"This year, our goal was to involve families more deeply in our Camp Fire community,” explains Sam Ward, Camp Fire Central Oregon program director. “We know that family is the foundation of connection and well-being, and it was such an incredible experience to watch our afterschool kiddos lead their families through our Camp Fire program space and excitedly share what each afternoon looks like from their perspective!"

Parents and guardians were invited to experience the fair alongside the children, gaining a firsthand look at the enrichment and excitement CFA offers every afternoon. In addition to admiring their children’s work, families joined in the fun with interactive robotics and face-painting stations, offering a taste of the creativity and exploration that fuel the Camp Fire experience. Children guided the adults through the art and science tables featuring their projects and creations.

Staff members holding a signed posterboard for departing program coordinator.

Outgoing CFA Program Coordinator Kia Lo (left) and Incoming CFA Program Coordinator Cyprianna Martinez (right) smile, holding Kia's "Going Away Card" filled with CFA kids' messages and signatures.

A Goodbye—and a Hello
The fair at Amity Creek, in particular, was also a moment of transition, as campers and staff bid a fond farewell to Kia Lo (she/her), the outgoing Bend-based CFA coordinator. With deep gratitude and well wishes, the Camp Fire community honored Kia, who is embarking on an exciting new chapter in wildland firefighting—a path lit by her bold spirit and sense of purpose.

Stepping into the Bend CFA coordinator role is Cyprianna Martinez (she/her), already immersed in the rhythms of the program and bringing her energy, warmth, and readiness to support Camp Fire youth. With Cyprianna at the helm, the Bend CFA sites are in caring, capable hands!

Camper getting facepaint put on her face by a staff member.

Afterschool Participant Eleanor (right) has found her "spark" with science but art, too, enjoys the face-painting station at the Science & Art Fair. Camp Fire's STEAM Coordinator Jess Pederson gives her a colorful look!

Discovering Our Sparks!
The Art & Science Fair reflected not only incredible learning and creativity but also Camp Fire’s purpose around helping young people find their spark, lift their voices, and discover who they are. As Eleanor, one participant, shared, she has really come to love science throughout her many afternoons at CFA. For her, science—and all the discovery and experimentation it involves—is a total blast. Why?

“It’s like ‘I want to do this and I want to do that and I don’t even know what it’s going to be like!” she says.

And, as far as the feeling she gets inside when she thinks about her science spark?

“It’s like everything is squished together in my heart . . . and it feels really good!”

This CFA participant holds a handmade butterfly craft—yes, the mechanics of its wings really do move to simulate flying!

Registration Reminders for CFA 2025/2026
For the upcoming school year season, Camp Fire has high hopes for another such Art & Science Fair, including possible plans around bringing this event to its newer afterschool programs in South County.

Stay tuned for more information! And please note, registration for CFA kicks off earlier this year. If interested in joining this incredible program, please see these sign-up dates below:

Sunday, June 1 at 4 p.m., registration opens for

Camp Fire Afterschool Bend, host-school families only (Amity Creek and Bend International School)
Camp Fire Afterschool South County, all schools

Sunday, June 8 at 4 p.m., registration opens for