Camp Fire Central Oregon | Light the Fire Within

Our News Archive

Media Release: Camp Fire Central Oregon Receives Competitive American Camp Association Grant Award

Kids playing with cups in a stream

Funding supports camp research for expansion in South County and growing character strengths of ‘curiosity, confidence, and compassion’ within Camp Fire’s programs. BEND, Ore. Feb. 5, 2026 – Camp Fire Central Oregon is excited to announce that it has been… Read More >

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Staff Spotlight: Jen Paynter, CFA Site Lead & Playworks Recess Coach

Kids gather closely around a Camp Fire staff member and show off pom pom character crafts

Q: Tell us about your personal and professional background. Also, what drew you to Camp Fire Central Oregon? A: With an academic background in math, science, and engineering, I bring a blend of analytical thinking and hands-on experience to my… Read More >

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Media Release: Camp Fire Central Oregon Invites the Community to Warm the Hearts of U.S. Veterans on MLK Jr. National Day of Service

Happening Monday: Valentines for Veterans, a massive annual volunteer event to craft cards of encouragement and gratitude for service members. BEND, Ore. Jan. 15, 2026 – Valentine’s Day may be a month away, but it’s going to be in the… Read More >

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Youth Leading Youth: Camp Fire Teens Elevate a Beloved Tradition

Teen holding Veterans Day sign with two youth alongside her.

Every November, one of Camp Fire Central Oregon’s No School Day Camps takes on a special energy. Kids are buzzing with excitement as a long-held tradition unfolds: joining the Bend Veterans Day Parade. This year, alongside approximately 30 energetic K–5… Read More >

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Staff Spotlight: Jesse Flury, Camp Fire Central Oregon’s Program Manager

Jesse Flury Staff Spotlight

Meet Program Manager Jesse Flury (he/him), who joined the Camp Fire Central Oregon team at the tail end of Summer 2025! With a passion for youth development, the outdoors, and decades of experience supporting young people—including leading a teen sports… Read More >

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Camp Fire’s 2025 Year in Review: Courage, Connection & Collective Wins

Graphic highlighting a year of courage, connection and collective wins

As we close out 2025, we’re taking a moment to breathe, look back, and celebrate what we built together this year. From expanding youth safety and well-being to repairing the harm our organization has caused by cultural appropriation, to forging… Read More >

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A New, Meaningful Partnership with Puyallup Tribal Enterprises and Puyallup Chocolates

Photo featuring Puyallup fundraiser chocolates

For nearly 70 years, generations of Camp Fire youth learned sales skills, built confidence, and shared joy through the classic mint patties that became a symbol of the season. When that long chapter came to a close in 2024, our… Read More >

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Happening This Saturday! Camp Fire’s 4th Annual Autumn Family Faire Brings Fall Fun, Connection, and Community to Downtown Bend

Little girl with paper crown.

All of Central Oregon Is Invited!   Bend, Ore., October 14, 2025 – The wait is almost over! Camp Fire Central Oregon’s 4th Annual Autumn Family Faire is happening this Saturday, October 18, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at… Read More >

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Staff Spotlight: Morgan Schaening, Camp Fire Central Oregon’s New Program Director

Morgan (he, his) discovered his spark for youth development and education living abroad in Australia, where he worked with educators to design student leadership expeditions to the far reaches of the world. These programs focused on building character and life… Read More >

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