The Value of Camp

Rates & Return

Reflecting on the summer of 2025 and the legacy of 45 summers before that, the Sonlight leadership team knows that camp has value. Fun, friendships, faith connections and adventures have lasting impact.

Summer 2026 brings a significant rate increase for Sonlight summer camps. It’s no surprise that the costs of operating a small not-for-profit ministry are escalating. In 2025 alone the Sonlight budget has absorbed an increase in fixed costs in five primary drivers of expenses (insurance, licensing, food, supplies, and staff). All  are increasing from external pressure beyond our control and faster than we want to increase tuition.

• 30% increase in insurance
• 25% raw food cost
• 50% in licensing fees and inspections
• The cost to comply with licensing and legislation for childcare, water, waste water, the health department and staffing continues to be an increasing financial burden

Camp has value, the returns on the investment are immeasurable. We recognize the financial strain many face when trying to pay for camp and want to remain accessible for all. More than ever, we believe that experiences like this are extremely valuable for today’s youth. We strive to be flexible and are willing to work with families to help make camp possible.

The listed tuition is the overall cost to Sonlight per camper. At the time of registration you may choose the subsidized tier, a lower rate made possible by donors. Should the subsidized tier still be a financial challenge you may reach out to Claire Madera, Camp Director, for conversation about additional financial scholarship funds.

The Sonlight Leadership Team desires to operate with integrity and remain transparent in all that we do. The rate increase reflects that, so tuition is the actual cost to Sonlight per camp for a camp session.

Camp has value. We are grateful for the opportunity to provide a space for today’s youth to explore faith, foster meaningful friendships, develop skills and explore character; it matters.