Camp Fire Central Oregon Doubles Its ‘Proclamation Impact’ For the Holiday’s Annual Youth Recognition

Bend, Ore. March 18, 2025 – The cities of La Pine and Bend are joining other municipalities across the United States on Thursday, March 20, honoring today’s youth in recognition of Absolutely Incredible Kid Day® (AIK Day). Founded in 1997 by youth development organization Camp Fire, AIK Day is a national holiday that focuses on lifting up the kids and teens in our lives.

On Wednesday, March 12, the mayor of La Pine, Jeannine Earls, joined La Pine City Council members in announcing the proclamation at the city council meeting, acknowledging AIK Day and the value young people bring to the world. In addition, the proclamation noted Camp Fire’s “commitment to providing a nurturing, encouraging and fun environment for young people to explore and discover their skills, passions and unique attributes.”

This Wednesday, March 19 at 7 p.m., City of Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler and Bend City Council will also make the official proclamation, designating this Thursday as AIK Day, testifying to the amazingness of youth. They will encourage adults to “write and post letters of love and appreciation to young people in their lives,” urging AIK Day participation. Camp Fire Central Oregon Board Member Rui Cruz is slated to accept the Bend proclamation this week. Meanwhile, Kecia Kubota, Camp Fire Central Oregon’s executive director, attended La Pine City Council’s meeting last week to witness the proclamation. 

“The City of Bend has been a longtime supporter of Absolutely Incredible Kid Day, and we are thrilled that the La Pine City Council is recognizing this national holiday as well,” says Joey Hamilton, Camp Fire Central Oregon’s marketing and development director.

“The recognition casts a lens of purpose around spotlighting kids and inspiring adults throughout the Central Oregon community to show their appreciation for today’s youth,” he says. “With our programs extending throughout Central Oregon and given recent, significant program offerings in the La Pine area, it’s super to have AIK Day acknowledgment from not just the City of Bend but, now, the City of La Pine, too. We are so grateful for this widespread participation.” 

Upcoming AIK Day Opportunities

Camp Fire Central Oregon makes taking action easy. Adults are invited to visit Camp Fire Central Oregon’s website to get AIK Day inspiration and download free AIK Day stationery for writing notes of appreciation. An AIK Day coloring page is also available if someone prefers to color a picture along with a special kid in their life or gift it for youth to enjoy!

“Anyone can use our official letterhead to craft a heartfelt AIK Day letter to an amazing kid in their life,” Hamilton says. “They can also tap into their creativity with the coloring page—reflecting alongside that incredible young person—then share it on social media, tagging @CAMPFIRENHQ and using #KidDay. These small acts of appreciation may seem simple, but when thousands across the country join in, the impact is profound.”

Skating & Birthday Fun: Camp Fire’s Successful AIK Day Celebration

Honoring youth on AIK Day isn’t the only effort Camp Fire Central Oregon has been making to lift up Central Oregon kids. On Sunday, March 16, Camp Fire hosted its most successful AIK Day FREE Ice Skating Party and celebration ever at the Pavilion in Bend. Approximately 125 youth, along with parents/guardians turned up to enjoy ice skating, crafts, games, a raffle, fundraiser and, of course, Camp Fire birthday cake, given the celebration coincides with Camp Fire’s birthday month.

“We held this year’s event on a Sunday, and the turnout and energy were nothing short of amazing,” Hamilton says. “We are so grateful to our partners, including the Pavilion for hosting, and Safeway, which contributed toward our two ginormous birthday cakes. So many folks turned out to experience the very intentional AIK Day activities we offered. The snowy, cold day was also a great bonus for great skating ice!”

Supporting the Journey
Throughout March, Camp Fire is highlighting the core values and impact that have shaped its mission, while inviting everyone to help build a brighter future through financial donations, sponsorships and more. Camp Fire is more than just a program—it is a community that empowers youth to embrace their whole selves by creating inclusive spaces where they feel seen, heard and valued. With continued support, Camp Fire can provide life-changing experiences that leave a lasting legacy, strengthening individuals, families and communities for generations to come.

Support Camp Fire today by visiting: https://campfireco.org/donate/.

INTERVIEW CONTACT:

Joey Hamilton, Marketing & Development Director | Camp Fire Central Oregon, joey@campfireco.org; (541) 316-8006

About Camp Fire Central Oregon

Founded in 1910, Camp Fire is a national organization that actively engages youth and teens in building essential skills for life. Camp Fire Central Oregon has been a local leader in youth development since 1916. The organization provides out-of-school time, teen service and leadership, camp and environmental programs. Young people want to shape the world. Camp Fire provides the opportunity to help them find their spark, lift their voice, and discover who they are.

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