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Empower-U
Therapeitic Summer Camp

What is Empower-U Summer Program?

A unique blend of traditional summer camp fun with evidence-based therapeutic support.

We are honored to partner with your family this summer. Empower-U is more than a camp, it’s a community of young people learning, growing, and supporting each other. Your child will develop skills, build friendships, and discover strengths they may not have known they had. Most importantly, they will experience a summer filled with fun, support, and genuine connection.

Wellness While Having Fun.

Every activity is designed to build confidence, foster healthy relationships, and teach practical skills for managing life's challenges.

Real Life Tools
& Support

Youth develop emotional intelligence, social skills, coping strategies, and resilience that they can use throughout their lives.

Structure & Creativity

Consistent routines with creative activities, games, outdoor play, and group experiences that build confidence and friendships.

Enrollment has Ended

Professionally Trained Staff

Empower-U is staffed by trained, compassionate professionals who are passionate about supporting youth wellness. Our team includes Qualified Behavioral Health Professionals (QBHP), experienced camp counselors, and licensed clinicians (as needed). All staff members undergo background checks and receive training in trauma-informed care and age-appropriate therapeutic techniques.

Enrollment Closed!!
A group of kids having fun playing games together in a sunny park setting.
A diverse group of friends waving and having fun at a lively summer pool party.

General Summer Enrichment Program Information

Youth are to be dropped off and picked up at camp location. Transportation to and from camp is currently not provided.

  • Location: Alternate Life Path: 907 W 5th Street
  • Dayton, Ohio
  • Hours: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday
  • Dates: June 1 – July 31, 2026 (9 weeks)
  • Ages: 6-14 years old
  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Provided (Please pack a meal for your camper with dietary restrictions).
  • Cost: Free for Ohio Medicaid recipients
  • Capacity: Space is limited; enrollment is based on application review. Transportation to/from camp is not available.

Meet Our Summer Team

Kierrsten Farmer

Kierrsten Farmer

Coordinator
Some of my credentials include a BA in Criminal Justice and am a licensed Realtor. I have also been working with youth/students as an Educator (licensed Substitute Teacher) for K-12 & have been teaching multiple styles of Dance (and fitness) to all ages for many years.I know that by empowering, inspiring, and educating others, I can make a difference.
Daisy Dunham

Daisy Dunham

Youth Counselor
I am an upcoming senior at Ohio Christian University, where I also play college soccer. Working with youth is a passion of mine and something I feel uniquely prepared for; as the oldest girl in a family of 12 with a background in foster care and caregiving, A few fun facts about me: I lived in Nicaragua for five years as a missionary, I am bilingual in Spanish, and in my free time, I love playing pickleball!
Andrea Lazos Zimmerer

Andrea Lazos Zimmerer

Youth Counselor
As an educator and lifelong learner, I bring creativity, curiosity, and hands-on experiences into the classroom every day. With a background in Family and Consumer Sciences and culinary education, I teach high school students through engaging, skill-based learning in Global Foods and Culinary Fundamentals courses. My teaching philosophy centers on practical life skills, cultural appreciation through food, and helping students build confidence both in and out of the kitchen.
Victoria Kempt

Victoria Kempt

Youth Counselor
Hi, my name is Victoria (Tori) Kempton. I am a recent graduate of Ohio Northern University's Psychology program. I have a passion for working with kids and I am excited to incorporate my academic and professional knowledge to help your child succeed! My experience working with camps spans the past five years, varying in age, population and student density. Outside of camp, I enjoy outdoor activities like running, hiking and swimming in addition to arts, like dance. I hope to share the joy of movement with others and encourage your campers to find fun ways to stay active and engaged.
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What Makes Empower-U Diffrent?

Unlike traditional summer camps, Empower-U integrates mental health support into every activity. Our trained Qualified Behavioral Health Professionals (QBHP) and licensed counselors work alongside camp counselors to ensure that therapeutic goals are woven into games, activities, and group experiences. Your child will develop real-life tools while having genuine fun—the two go hand in hand.

What Will Your Camper Learn?

Throughout the nine weeks, your child will develop emotional intelligence, self-esteem, social skills, coping strategies, resilience, decision-making abilities, goal-setting skills, and gratitude. Each week builds on the previous one, creating a comprehensive foundation for emotional and social growth.

Supporting Your Camper At Home

While camp provides structured therapeutic support, your involvement at home is invaluable. Ask about camp, practice skills together, reinforce weekly themes, create a safe space for sharing feelings, and celebrate your child's progress—no matter how small.