08/01/2026
On each of the Thursday’s at camp, we celebrated 25 years of Camp New Day U.P. with our Silver Jubilee celebration! 🩶✨
Our story began in the fall of 2001, when Jackie Means of the National Episcopal Church challenged a group of dedicated community members to create a special ministry for children impacted by the incarceration of a parent or loved one. That vision became a reality the summer of 2002 when Camp New Day U.P. welcomed its very first 19 campers.
As the years passed and the camp continued to grow, Camp New Day U.P. transitioned from a church ministry into an independent nonprofit organization. While our structure changed, our mission never did, which is to provide a safe, supportive, and fun place where children impacted by incarceration can simply be kids, build lasting friendships, and create lifelong memories.
To celebrate this incredible milestone, our dining hall was transformed into an elegant dining room, our board members traded their usual roles to become waiters and waitresses, and our campers enjoyed a special "fancy" dinner.
As part of the celebration, campers, counselors, and staff took a walk through Camp New Day U.P.'s history by looking through photos from our earliest camp years. It was so special to see where we started, reflect on how much we've grown over the past 25 years, and honor the countless campers, staff, and volunteers who have been part of our journey!
Twenty-five years later, we're proud to continue the vision that began in 2001 and grateful for every camper, volunteer, donor, and supporter who has made this journey possible.
Here's to the next 25 years! ✨🌲🌈☀️🛶🎨