Arizona families with a penchant for adventure are set to receive a fresh wave of support to get them outside and exploring nature. The Arizona Family Campout Program, designed to introduce families with minimal camping experience to the wonders of the great outdoors, has landed a $100,000 grant from the Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family (GOYFF), according to an announcement on the GOYFF website.
The generous funding, courtesy of the Arizona Parents Commission on Drug Education and Prevention, is slated to bolster the well-regarded program operated by Arizona State Parks and Trails. By supplying more camping equipment and instruction, the initiative promises to expand its reach, inviting more families to share in the joys and practical skills of outdoor living. Administered through the grant, Arizona's family bonds are expected to strengthen, rooted in the soil of their shared experiences beneath the state's expansive skies.
Speaking to the benefits of outdoor activities, Tonya Hamilton, director of the GOYFF, stated, "Encouraging safe outdoor experiences helps build confidence, brings families closer together, and nurtures a lasting love and appreciation for the breathtaking natural beauty of our state." A sentiment echoed by many who have participated in the program, which provides not only the necessary gear but fosters a guided weekend filled with activities ranging from kayaking to archery.
Michelle Thompson, deputy assistant director at Arizona State Parks and Trails, recognized the essential nature of the backing: "Funding for this program is vital to introducing the outdoors to more families who may not have been raised with these experiences." Thompson told GOYFF, "The grant funding will help us continue to build the program and provide amazing experiences to more families." As part of its expansion, the program aims to add spots at each event, introduce special events for foster or adoptive families, and waive fees for qualifying participants.
Since its inception in 2013, the Arizona Family Campout Program has welcomed over 2,500 families, teaching them to responsibly enjoy and contribute to the preservation and improvement of state parks through service projects. With the introduction of this grant, the future holds the promise of increased accessibility, additional equipment, and ranger support necessary to shepherd the program's growth. Families interested in building a legacy of outdoor experiences in Arizona's diverse landscapes are encouraged to reach out to the Arizona State Parks for more information or to plan their next park adventure.
