The camp began in 1924 with one woman’s vision for transforming the lives of young Black girls in San Antonio’s eastside community.
SAN ANTONIO — America’s first historically Black summer camp for girls is celebrating 101 years in San Antonio.
At Camp Founder Girls – you’ll find a lot more than smiles. Director of Camp Founder Girls, Natalynn Masters says 3rd and 8th grade girls gather to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime adventures.
“Them being able to see counselors that look like them of all different personality types and seeing them thrive and showcase who they are and live in their authentic identity is really big for us,” Masters said. “At the end of camp, they’re feeling stronger, they’re feeling more confident, more brave and are able to express their creativity.”
Counselors in Training Leads – Halo Byrd and Ari Smith feel like big sisters to the campers.
“Being able to give them experience that I didn’t have growing up, it’s very, it feels very good,” Byrd said.
It’s with the help of nonprofits like Black Outside Inc. that make confidence in your own skin possible.
“This camp experience has definitely shown me that I like being around people that remind me of myself and look like me,” Smith said. “And it’s made me want to apply to Howard maybe in the future.”
To learn more about Camp Founder Girls, click here.