Camp Oakland: Celebrating 75 Years in Oxford
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Camp Oakland has been part of the Oxford community since 1951. In May, the organization will celebrate its 75th anniversary. The campus once covered 320 acres. Today it operates on 160 acres and continues its mission to support youth who need structure, counseling and a safe environment.
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Serving Local Youth
Camp Oakland’s youth are comprised of teens aged 14–18 years of age, both males and females. They are referred through the juvenile court system. Mental health needs are significant, especially for girls who often arrive with significant histories of trauma, abuse and neglect. Staff ratios reflect this level of care. Boys are supported at one staff member for every six students; girls are supported at one staff member for every four. Recent grants have allowed for the program to improve therapy spaces, train staff, and expand mental health resources.
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Giving Back to the Community
The youth at Camp Oakland participate in many community activities. They assist with setup for the Oxford Chamber Business Expo, help vendors find their tables, and support the event from start to finish. They also march in the Oxford and Orion parades. Jessica arranges career workshops where local professionals visit the campus to share how they built their careers. These sessions open the students eyes to opportunities they may not have known existed. Each student receives a certificate with the presenters information so they can follow up later if they are interested in a job or mentorship.
Renovations that Build Skills
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A recent Cup of J.O.E grant has funded major improvements. Local businesses have stepped in to help. Jason Carter of Carter Quality Hardwood will be working with the boys to install new flooring. Prominent Streak Painting partnered with them to repaint the entire 11,000 square foot building. Leroy Dockter from Old Country Custom Builder is creating custom furniture with the boys and guiding them through hands-on construction projects. Local businesses are encouraged to reach out for other opportunities to work with the youth on various renovation projects. It is a win/win/win – their outdated building improves, the youth gain valuable hands-on experiences, and by only hiring local businesses for these projects, our community is being supported as well.
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How the Community Can Help
Jessica Nichols, Camp Oakland’s Director of Development and Sustainability, encourages residents to attend events, visit Camp Oakland at local craft shows (just as the Oxford Chamber Executive Director did recently), support youth-made items, and learn more about the programs. Coming up on February 5th, Camp Oakland will host their very first Topgolf event and encourage the community to attend to support! Even staff members attend events on their days off to support the agency, showing their passion and dedication to the mission. They are eager to share the impact their work has on the youth and the community.
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Jessica summed it up simply, “These kids are not bad kids. They are kids who have been through some rough patches and made some bad decisions. With the right support and a second chance, they can and will do amazing things.”
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For more information, visit: https://www.campoakland.org/