Fundraiser Tonight To Give Children The Chance To Say YES To Camp

The Chamberlin Family Foundation is looking for a big summer kickoff with Thursday's annual Sunset Dinner, a major fundraiser event for a program designed to send disadvantaged children to summer camp.

The Foundation today announced a commitment to provide a $2 match for every dollar donated up to $20,000 during tonight's dinner. The dinner is slated for 6 p.m. at HS Lordships Restaurant in the Berkeley Marina.

The YES Program's goal is to reach out to more than 300 low-income children in West Contra Costa to give them the chance to attend summer camp.

“Too many children in our community do not have access to safe, educational and meaningful alternatives during the summer months,” said Susan  Chamberlin, CFF co-founder. “Sending children to summer camp – a privilege often taken for granted – exposes them to an array of enriching experiences that will help prepare them for success on the road to college and career.”

“So step up, bring your wallet and give generously,” added Steve Chamberlin, CFF co-founder.   

Since its launch in 1999, the YES Program has sent more than 4,000 children to camp, including students such as Mia Stewart of Richmond. Stewart will be honored at tonight's dinner with the Redwood Scholarship Award.

Stewart first started attending the summer camp program in 2009 and was quick to return as a Counselor-in-Leadership-Training at YES partner YMCA Camp Loma Mar. Over the next three summers, she went on to be a standout leader with both her peers and for the younger children.

“For me, success starts with going to college. I’m grateful for the activities I got involved with in high school and for the activities I did with YES,” said Stewart.