What Is Celebrate Me Week?

An Inside Look at the Camp That’s Changing Young Lives ✨

In their final moments before reuniting with family, campers & staff gather in a sunset circle — hearts full, eyes teary, forever changed by six days of Celebrate Me Week.

🌱 A Safe Haven in a Chaotic World

Middle school is tough. It’s that awkward, beautiful, high-pressure stage where kids are trying to figure out who they are — while also feeling the pressure to fit in, stand out, grow up, and somehow stay grounded.

Now layer in social media, academic stress, and growing emotional needs, and it’s no wonder our kids are overwhelmed.

That’s exactly why Celebrate Me Week was created.

We offer a safe space where kids can breathe. A place where they’re not judged by how they look, what they wear, or how “cool” they are — but celebrated for exactly who they are.

“This is a valid, life-changing experience. Without it, kids lose a moment to believe they are lovable and capable.” - Celebrate Me Week Board Officer

Each day at Celebrate Me Week begins with a theme that sets the tone for everything we do. On this day, two campers proudly introduce the message: ‘I Am Loved.’ It’s more than just a phrase — it’s an invitation to receive love, give love, and remember that love is at the core of who we are.

💛 What Happens at Camp?

Our one-week camp experience is packed with joy, reflection, friendship, and a whole lot of intentional love. Here’s a glimpse into what each day looks like:

☀️We start with “Liturgy” — lakeside and life-giving.

Every morning begins down by the water. We stretch, breathe, and listen. Staff members share personal stories connected to the day’s theme — things like “I Am Loved” or “Conformity.” It’s a sacred space for truth, vulnerability, and connection.

🥞 We eat. Like, a lot.

Because growing hearts and growing bodies need fuel! Meals are filled with chatter, laughter, and impromptu dance parties in the cafeteria.

🗣️ We hear a “Big Talk” that changes how we see the world.

Each day, one staffer who feels called shares their real-life story tied to that day’s theme. These aren’t fluffy talks — they’re honest, hopeful, and deeply personal. It’s the kind of stuff kids carry home with them long after camp ends.

🏃We run, swim, snack, and play

From swimming and large group games to spontaneous talent shows and craft corners, our afternoons are jam-packed with movement, imagination, and joy.

🎤 We welcome surprise guests. (Sometimes with animals. Sometimes with funny red guitars.)

Whether it’s a local zoo visit or a red guitar and a song that makes us laugh and cry — we bring in guests that help bring our daily themes to life in unexpected, beautiful ways.

🔥We end around a fire — heart-full and forever changed.

Every evening closes with a campfire. We sing. We reflect. We celebrate how far we’ve come — even in just one day. Campers begin to see their own worth reflected in the stories, songs, and affirmations spoken over them.

The magic isn’t in just what we do, though. It’s in how our campers feel when they leave. One arrives withdrawn — they leave dancing. Another arrives anxious — they go home with a spark in their eyes.

“I finally feel like I belong...” — Henry, Camper 2023

Campers playing a competitive game of "Captain's Coming!"

🔥 Real Stories. Lasting Impact.

Over the years, we’ve received heartfelt letters, quotes, and even photos of old alumni who still carry their Celebrate Me Week lessons with them.

“My grandson came home from camp and said, ‘I feel like I can finally do something right.’ I’ve never seen him so proud.”— Grandparent of a camper

“We’ve had kids go from campers to counselors to community leaders. The ripple effect is real.” - Celebrate Me Week Board Officer

We believe in planting seeds. Celebrate Me Week doesn’t just change lives during that one week… it creates leaders, change-makers, and compassionate humans long after the final camper enters the real world right through the Camp Patterson Gates.

🌍 Looking Ahead: Continuing the Mission

We’re committed to growing Celebrate Me Week where it makes sense and where it matters most. That means:

• Increasing awareness in communities who may not yet know about our camp

• Enhancing our curriculum to meet the emotional needs of today’s kids

• Staying deeply rooted in our mission of love, belonging, and truth

• Strengthening our financial foundation through thoughtful fundraising and community support — so Celebrate Me Week can continue to change lives for the next 37 years (and beyond)

Growth for us doesn’t mean “more”—it means deeper. More meaningful. More impactful. And always centered on the young people we serve.

Our campers that agreed to a "Do Something" Action, that they can take and practice everyday in the real world

📣 Get Involved

🧡 Donate: https://celebratemeweek.co/donate

🙋‍♀️ Volunteer: https://celebratemeweek.co/volunteer

💬 Final Word

Celebrate Me Week isn’t just a camp.

It’s a calling. A celebration of every child’s worth. A moment where they’re told — maybe for the first time — “You are lovable and capable.”

And we’re just getting started. 💛