WE SEND KIDS TO CAMP
TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES:
TO DISCOVER new possibilities
TO BUILD FUNDAMENTAL SKILLS
TO LEARN RESPONSIBILITY AND TEAMWORK
TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS
CAMPS & COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Throughout the years, Camp Out for Kids has sent children and youth to many different types of camps as well as developed strong relationships with other organizations that provide summer camp experiences and programming.
Please see below for a list of camps our campers attended during the summer of 2025.
2026 SUMMER CAMP GRANT AND APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN! Please email Taylor Romani at taylor@campoutforkids.org for an application or more information.
Please note that we cannot guarantee acceptance into any camp. Applying to the summer camp is the responsibility of the parent or guardian.
2025 CAMPS & COMMUNITY PARTNERS
history
Camp out for Kids was founded by Marc Lifshin, Brian Neiswender, Barry Howard, and Brian Goldberg in 2008. As former campers, Marc, Brian, Barry, & Brian understood the magic of summer camp and how it could make a difference in children’s lives. They also knew that the cost of summer camp was a limitation for many families.
That first year, with the generous support of many volunteers, family, friends, and corporate sponsors, Camp Out for Kids raised $10,000 and sent 22 Chicagoland children and youth to a summer camp of their choice.
Today, Camp Out for Kids has raised over $6.6 million and sent over 11,500 kids to summer camp around the country. We have formed partnerships with many summer camps and non-profit summer programs to ensure we meet the needs and interests of the children we serve.
since 2008
who we are
MARC LIFSHIN // FOUNDER & President
Favorite Camp:
Illinois State University Soccer Camp
Favorite Camp Activity:
Capture the Flag
Best Camp Memory:
Getting awards, the good AND the bad ones ;)
Favorite Camp Song:
I Want to Linger
Best Camp Advice:
Rock n’ roll!
BRIAN NEISWENDER // FOUNDER & DIRECTOR
Favorite Camp:
Camp Saukenauk as a Boy Scout
Favorite Camp Activity:
Anything adventure related
Best Camp Memory:
Crossing the rope bridge at the ropes course for the first time
Favorite Camp Song:
Didn’t have a favorite song but I have lots of scary campfire stories!
Best Advice for Campers:
Use your time at camp to make new friendships and try something new or something that you would typically be scared to do. And have fun!
barry howard // founder + VP
Favorite Camp:
Indiana Soccer Camp was my favorite. Huge 'independence' moment for me. First time at overnight camp and felt empowered on my own.
Favorite Camp Activity:
Soccer.
Best Camp Memory:
Getting the Charlie Hustle award at a baseball camp. While not the most athletic or skilled player, it taught me that hard work can be rewarded and a crucial part of being on a team. Not everyone is Michael Jordan, but that doesn't stop you from being a key part of a team.
Favorite Camp Song:
USA National Anthem
Best Advice for Campers:
Camp can be a blank slate to find the real you that is free of existing expectations of school and sports friends, family members, etc. Find your authentic self!
brian goldberg // founder
Favorite Camp:
Camp Thunderbird, Bemidji MN
Favorite Camp Activity:
Overnight camping!
Best Camp Memory:
The friends I made.
Favorite Camp Song:
Ha, going on a bearhunt (as a kid 😊)
Best Advice for Campers:
Never give up, life’s challenges make you stronger.
Taylor romani // Executive DIRECTOR
Favorite Camp:
Camp Timber-lee, East Troy, WI
Favorite Camp Activity:
Ghost in the Graveyard. With a buddy of course - too scary by myself!
Best Camp Memory:
Improv Night
Favorite Camp Song:
Ghost stories are the best
Best Advice for Campers:
Just go for it. Don’t let fear or nerves hold you back. Especially when trying something new or a little silly. The more you put yourself out there, the more fun you’ll have… and those are the moments that turn into the best memories.
