BEND, Ore., June 30, 2026  — Camp Fire Central Oregon, a bedrock youth organization serving the region since 1916, has launched an emergency fundraising campaign to bridge a critical financial gap. A combination of unexpected economic headwinds, rising operational costs, and an unforeseen $150,000 loss in anticipated partner funding has created a significant short-term deficit, putting immediate pressure on the nonprofit’s ability to deliver its award-winning youth programs.

The announcement comes at a time when Central Oregon youth are facing unprecedented challenges with screen time, social media pressure, and rising anxiety. Camp Fire’s nature-based programs—built on the pillars of curiosity, confidence, and compassion—serve as a vital antidote. Last year alone, the organization served over 1,000 local youth and teens, providing more than $200,000 in financial assistance to ensure no child was left behind.

Campers and teen counselors standing on bridge with mountains in background"For over a century, we've watched kids arrive at our programs uncertain or withdrawn, only to stand a little taller and speak a little louder after connecting with nature or a team challenge," said Kecia Kubota, Camp Fire Central Oregon’s executive director. "We call that moment their 'spark.' Today, that spark is at risk. We are being completely transparent with the community we love: We need a financial bridge to ensure we can maintain the quality and accessibility that Central Oregon families count on."

Absorbing the Burden for Local Families
The current financial crunch is tied directly to Camp Fire’s deep commitment to regional youth. Over the past two years, when a critical gap in afterschool care left La Pine families stranded, Camp Fire stepped in to run the program.
When projected long-term funding partner PacificSource faced federal cuts and had to unexpectedly retract $150,000 in anticipated support for the 2025–2026 school year, Camp Fire chose not to walk away. Instead, they absorbed the burden out of their own reserves and awarded over $90,000 in financial assistance to South County families until a sustainable transition could be made.

Camp Fire kids work together on a stream studyBuilding a Stronger, Safer Future
Despite tightening its belt and right-sizing operations, Camp Fire continues to lead the region in youth wellness. The organization’s SummerKids program recently earned the prestigious MESH+ Seal from the Alliance for Camp Health—a national recognition awarded for meeting the highest standards in mental, emotional, and social health.

To support working families, Camp Fire expanded to 10 weeks of summer programming this year, complete with a dedicated behavior and inclusion specialist and specialized staff training to support vulnerable youth. Currently scheduled summer programs and 2026/2027 school-year programs remain open and available for registration.

How the Central Oregon Community Can Help:
Camp Fire is calling on alumni, businesses, and residents to help protect this century-old tradition. Donations of any amount will directly preserve financial assistance for low-income families, protect vital staff and training investments, and give leadership the breathing room to make and execute upon sustainable, proactive decisions.

  • Donate Online: Give a one-time or monthly recurring gift at campfireco.org/donate/.
  • Donate by Mail: P.O. Box 7031, Bend, OR 97708
  • Business Sponsorships: Local businesses looking to sponsor a day of camp or explore creative investment opportunities are invited to contact Kecia Kubota directly: info@campfireco.org, 541-205-9146.

"We are not coasting; we are actively building," said Kubota. "We have been a part of this community since 1916, and we do not take that history lightly. We are asking the people who know us best to stand with us at this pivotal moment so every kid in Central Oregon still has a chance to find their spark."

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MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Kecia Kubota (she/her), Executive Director | Camp Fire Central Oregon
info@campfireco.org; (541) 205-9146

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 nonprofit 501(c)3 organization provides out-of-school time, teen service and leadership, camp, STEAM 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.