Camp Philadelphia

Camp Philadelphia is the name that encompasses all of our youth programs. The name was derived from the biblical church of Philadelphia—which is the church of love, the church that did everything right. That meant seeing to the widows and orphans and feed the hungry, visited the sick and by today’s standard that would also mean to help with a utility bill, provide children with summer activities and a safe place.

One of the future phases in the plans for Piedmont’s growth was to have a summer camp. But we wanted it to be for those economically disadvantaged /at-risk. This group was targeted because they had the least opportunities for cultural and athletic exposure. Therefore, we choose to open a camp specifically for those children.

We contacted Campbell County Department of Social Services and started getting referrals and in June 1998, Camp Philadelphia Summer Enrichment Program opened for the first children. That summer, we enrolled 13 children and we have continued to grow every summer since.

The summer enrichment program is six weeks. Each child enrolled is given Standards of Learning remediation in math and reading. Additionally, we teach the “Character Count” curriculum in daily lessons covering six pillars. In the afternoon, campers enjoy different recreational activities such as swimming, bowling, skating, free play, and field trips including Appomattox Courthouse, Amazement Square and King’s Dominion.

The summer of 2007 marked the 10th year of the summer enrichment program. During those ten years, we have formed some valuable partnerships with other agencies willing to serve our children. Those agencies include Virginia Skyline Council Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts of America, and the VA 4-H. Each agency brings a different experience to the children.

The summer enrichment program is open to children ages 6-12. Occasionally, we have a pre-k group ages 3-5. Camp Philadelphia is licensed by the state of Virginia as a licensed day care provider. Our staff is CPR and First Aid trained. All of our employees are background screened by the Department of Social Services and the Virginia State Police.

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