About Us
Camp Fire USA is a community-based non-profit organization that builds caring, confident, youth and future leaders. When it began in 1910, it was the first integrated, non-sectarian organization for girls in the United States. Camp Fire has evolved into a network of 120 councils nationwide, and together we serve over 750,000 boys and girls between the ages of 3 and 18 every year.
The Portland Metro Council of Camp Fire has served well over 100,000 youth since opening in 1912, making us one of the most successful and deeply rooted youth-development organizations in our community.
What We Do
The Camp Fire USA Portland Metro Council is proud to provide a diverse array of programs year-round that enhance educational enrichment, promote civic engagement, and provide opportunities for experiencing the natural splendor of the Pacific Northwest. In partnership with committed volunteers and staff, Camp Fire gives young people the tools and skills they need to be successful at school, at home, and in our community. We do this by working with youth and encouraging them to:
- Contribute to their community through service and civic participation
- Strive for academic success
- Develop and maintain healthy relationships
- Value and promote diversity
- Become self-confident people who care about others and the community
What Makes Camp Fire Unique?
- Camp Fire is Co-ed, serving boys and girls ages 3 -18
- Camp Fire is Inclusive, serving youth and families regardless of any kind of diversity
- Camp Fire is Proactive, giving youth the skills to be successful rather than managing them when they fall into crisis
- Camp Fire is Long-term, serving youth from the earliest years to young adulthood
- Camp Fire employs Best Practices* in youth development with research tested curricula that guide youth through experiences that foster self-esteem, leadership, and cooperation
* Camp Fire curriculum is linked to the nationally developed McRel Education Standards, supporting and enriching our after-school programs.