Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park (AMM) believes that every child, regardless of financial background, should be allowed to grow and explore through summer camp. AMM’s Summer Camp program provides children with the opportunity to connect with their natural environment and experience such quintessential Annapolis memories as kayaking, fishing, chicken necking, and wading into the water. Most importantly, AMM’s summer camps allow children to unplug and explore the natural environment after months of sitting in classrooms. Camp not only offers children an opportunity to learn about the Bay and obtain an appreciation for nature, but also allows them to develop social skills by improving peer socialization, promoting self-worth, and fostering nurturing and positive relationships between teachers and students.

Unfortunately, the dream of a summer camp does not exist for many kids in Annapolis and surrounding areas as families struggle to meet basic needs. Each year we receive numerous requests for scholarships. This year is no exception with 7.1 percent of Anne Arundel County children under the age of 18 living below the poverty level. Because summer camp is critically important for children to have opportunities to grow emotionally, build social skills, and have fun while being physical, AMM believes it is vital to offer summer camp scholarship spots to families in need in and around the City of Annapolis. Without scholarships, these children would not have the opportunity to engage in positive, hands-on experiences. Support from community stakeholders like you helps us to provide the camp experience for these youngsters that will create memories that will last a lifetime and inspire them to be life-long environmental stewards of our precious natural resources. A contribution of $350 earmarked for our summer camp program can enable one student to participate in a one-week camp or you can send two children from one family for $700. We hope you will consider a contribution.