Safe Summers Foundation

OUR MISSION

We keep children safe through prevention, preparation, and protection while preserving the joy and tradition of summer camp.

26 million children participate in summer camps each year in the United States.*

Yet the industry entrusted with their care operates under inconsistent safety standards, leaving millions of children at risk of preventable incidents.

*American Camp Association 2024 Impact Report

SAFE SUMMERS FUND

On July 4, 2025, 27 girls lost their lives during the devastating floods at Camp Mystic in Hunt, Texas. Now known as the “Heaven’s 27,” we honor their lives and legacies by seeking to ensure such a preventable tragedy never happens again.

The work began immediately, because protecting children cannot wait.

Originally launched as the Campaign for Camp Safety, a coalition of Heaven’s 27 parents went to the Texas State Capitol in August 2025 to advocate for change. The Heaven’s 27 Youth Camp Safety Act and Youth CAMPER Act was signed into law by Governor Abbott September 2025. 

In partnership with The Safety Navigator, we launched the Safe Summers Fund to help translate legislation into action. 

The Safe Summers Fund is a grant program that provides financial and technical support to qualifying nonprofit camps so they may implement new rules and regulations before another season of camp arrives.

How you can help

The Safe Summers Fund is a reminder of the impact that is possible when parents, nonprofits, and funders come together to protect our most vulnerable and precious assets — our kids.