A Century of Summer Magic: Camp Foster Celebrates 100 Years of Shaping Young Lives

Nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Winnipesaukee in Tuftonboro, New Hampshire, a venerable institution recently celebrated a truly remarkable milestone: Camp Foster proudly marked its 100th anniversary. A century of laughter, learning, and unforgettable summer memories culminated in a grand celebration, honoring a legacy that has profoundly shaped generations of young lives.

Since its humble beginnings in 1924, Camp Foster has served as a beacon of hope and adventure, initially established by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central New Hampshire.

Its founding vision was simple yet profound: to offer a safe, enriching, and transformative summer camp experience, particularly for children who might not otherwise have such an opportunity. For 100 years, it has delivered on that promise, providing a haven where kids can explore, grow, and forge lifelong friendships.

Peter Kelleher, President & CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central New Hampshire, encapsulated the camp's enduring spirit: "Kids come to camp, they might be a little shy, they might not know how to swim, they might not know how to ride a bike.

And within a week, they're not only doing all those things, they're building friendships and they're learning how to be themselves." This sentiment underscores the camp's magic – its ability to foster confidence and self-discovery in a supportive environment.

The celebration itself was a vibrant testament to Camp Foster's rich history, bringing together alumni, staff, volunteers, and supporters.

Activities like canoeing, swimming, archery, and arts and crafts echoed the joyful pursuits that generations of campers have enjoyed. A highlight of the festivities was the official proclamation by New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, dedicating a day to Camp Foster, acknowledging its invaluable contribution to the state's youth.

Jack Shirley, a long-time volunteer and board member, shared a touching perspective on the camp's impact: "It means kids come from all walks of life, and they come here and everybody’s equal." This ethos of equality and inclusivity is at the heart of Camp Foster, creating a community where every child feels valued and has the chance to thrive, regardless of their background.

Beyond the fun and games, Camp Foster instills crucial life skills: resilience, teamwork, independence, and a deep appreciation for nature.

It's a place where children disconnect from screens and reconnect with the simple joys of childhood – starry nights, campfire stories, and the camaraderie of fellow campers. These experiences become cherished memories, often spoken of with deep affection decades later.

As Camp Foster embarks on its next century, its commitment to empowering youth remains unwavering.

It stands not just as a camp, but as a cherished tradition, a place where the spirit of summer endures, and where every child is given the chance to discover their best self. Here's to another 100 years of summer magic, adventure, and growth on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee.