How Camp Fire Intentionally Inspires Youth Voice and Choice, Helping Kids Thrive!

At Camp Fire Central Oregon, youth empowerment isn’t just a concept—it’s a daily practice. Through intentional programming that fosters autonomy, responsibility, and leadership, Camp Fire helps kids explore their interests, take risks, and develop confidence in their own decision-making. In short, we help ignite and nurture "Voices and Choices," facilitating ways that each and every youth can put their voices and choices into action!

Creating Space for Discovery

Unlike traditional classroom settings, Camp Fire provides a unique environment where kids can freely discover and develop their passions.

“We have the opportunity to help kids expand their horizons and learn about interests they may not have known they had,” says Melanie Feltmate, Camp Fire Central Oregon’s Program Director. “By encouraging youth to identify their own “sparks”—the activities and interests that excite them—Camp Fire integrates those passions into programming, allowing kids to take an active role in shaping their experiences.”

As Feltmate notes, this approach is especially powerful because studies show that only 24% of parents can accurately identify their child’s primary passion.

“At Camp Fire, kids are encouraged to share their sparks, which not only builds self-awareness but also strengthens their sense of agency and belonging,” she says.

Empowering Kids Through Decision-Making

Camp Fire programs are designed to help kids practice real-world decision-making, too. From planning activities to leading group discussions, young participants take an active role in shaping their experience.

“We create spaces where youth can safely practice autonomy,” says Feltmate. “They learn that their voices matter—and that they have the power to make a difference.”

One example of how Voices and Choices translates in action comes from Max Ranzuglia, a former camper, Counselor in Training and now a youth representative on Camp Fire’s board of directors. Reflecting on a week-long teen service trip, he recalls how participants were responsible for planning meals, managing a budget, setting up tents, and cooking—all with minimal adult intervention.

“The fact that leaders gave us the opportunity to make it our own (decisions) rather than us just tagging along made it a really special trip,” he says.

A Foundation for Growth

At Camp Fire, the emphasis on Voice and Choice is built on a foundation of safety and belonging.

In our programs, “kids know their basic needs are met,” says Program Manager Logan Betts. “They feel safe, welcome, and included. That’s what allows them to start exploring their own interests and making their own decisions.”

This empowerment extends beyond Camp Fire’s programs, according to Kia Lo, Camp Fire’s afterschool program coordinator who has seen kids learn autonomy and responsibility in Camp Fire, then apply those skills and “sparks,” or unique passions, in their daily lives, at home, in school, and in their community.

“They even come back and teach us, as staff, what they’ve learned,” Lo says.

By intentionally fostering an environment where young people feel heard, valued, and capable, Camp Fire Central Oregon is helping kids build the confidence and skills they need to thrive not just today but for a lifetime!