"The fact that we all share that one thing in common, makes it comfortable, and a place you can open up and feel like you can belong."

 - AVARY Jr. Counselor

All Avary programs are offered at no cost to participants.

Your tax deductible donation helps keep our programs free.

We appreciate your generosity.

AVARY is made up of four programs including:


  • Sleep-away Summer Camp
  • Bi-monthly "Adventure Days" outings
  • Teen Leadership Program
  • Family Unity Activities for fun and community-building

 

Children begin with AVARY during elementary school, by first attending Summer Camp for one week.  Thereafter we encourage children to participate in our year-round programs and to remain with us into young adulthood.

 

Camp AVARY

A month-long "sleep-away" camp serving 105 children each Summer. Campers enjoy and learn about the outdoors, learn how to negotiate conflict, and develop a network of friends and supportive adults.   Our staff-to-child ratio is 1:2, and includes many adults who have lived through similar circumstances.  As children advance through AVARY they gain life skills, become Junior Counselors, and participate in advanced wilderness activities.

 

Adventure Days

Bi-monthly age specific excursions that introduce children to cultural & recreational experiences around the Bay Area.  Past outings have included museum tours, swimming, mountain biking, and visits to a working farm.

 

Teen Leadership

At age 14, AVARY participants can apply to be part of the Teen Leadership Program.  They receive training as youth counselors; attend weekend retreats where they develop outdoor skills and an appreciation for environmental stewardship, learn CPR & First Aid, and explore employment opportunities. Some teens also serve on the AVARY Youth Leadership Board, where they undertake special projects on behalf of the organization. At age 19, selected teens may be invited to join senior staff.

 

Family Unity

Annual retreats and outings give families the chance to come together and enjoy activities just for them.  Parent support groups and check-ins from AVARY staff give caregivers the opportunity to discuss parenting challenges specific to children with an incarcerated parent.  Ongoing support for all caregivers includes referrals and advocacy.