[Oshkosh Area Community Foundation](https://www.oshkoshareacf.org)

January 2027 (Application deadline, projected)

Typical awards up to $5,000; most grants in recent cycles ranged from $1,000–$5,000; funding covers up to 50% of camp expenses per camper.

Supports nonprofits in Winnebago County to provide camp scholarships for low-income youth to experience outdoor learning and overnight camps.

--- ## Description The Hiwela Youth Camperships program, administered by the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation, provides funding to nonprofit organizations to offer camp scholarships for children from low-income families in Winnebago County, Wisconsin. The goal is to promote outdoor learning experiences, with a particular focus on overnight camping, to help youth develop a deeper appreciation for nature and foster personal growth in areas such as confidence, leadership, and social skills. The fund was established using proceeds from the sale of Camp Hiwela and continues its legacy by supporting opportunities for youth who might not otherwise be able to attend camp due to financial barriers. Proposals are evaluated based on their emphasis on outdoor learning, demonstrated financial need, the potential impact on youth, and past performance (for returning applicants). --- ## Due Dates - January 2027 (anticipated application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Typical grant awards are up to $5,000 per organization. - In recent years, most grants ranged from $1,000 to $5,000. - The campership covers up to 50% of the camp expenses per individual camper. --- ## Eligibility - **Applicant Type:** Only nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply. Individuals and private schools are not eligible. - **Geographic Focus:** Campers must be residents of Winnebago County, Wisconsin. - **Program Focus:** Priority is given to overnight camping experiences with an emphasis on outdoor learning. - **Financial Need:** Programs must prioritize children from families with limited financial resources. - **Religious Activities:** Programs promoting religious activities or operated by religious organizations are not eligible. --- ## Application Process 1. **Preview Application:** Review the [application questions](https://www.oshkoshareacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Application-Youth-Campership-Program.pdf) to prepare your responses. 2. **Online Submission:** Complete and submit the [online application form](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=oacf) through the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation’s portal by the application deadline (anticipated January 2027). 3. **Supporting Documents:** Be prepared to provide additional documentation if requested (e.g., 501(c)(3) determination letter, Board of Directors list, financial statements, IRS Form 990). 4. **Grant Decision:** Funding decisions are typically announced in late February or early March. --- ## Additional Information - The amount of financial assistance per camper cannot exceed 50% of the total camp cost. - Applications are assessed on outdoor learning focus, prioritization of low-income families, potential impact, and—if applicable—past performance. - For returning applicants, evidence of effective use of previous grants (including participant feedback) strengthens proposals. - Past grant recipients include a range of youth-serving organizations providing day and overnight camp opportunities. --- ## External Links - [Hiwela Youth Camperships Program Page](https://www.oshkoshareacf.org/apply-for-grants/hiwela-youth-campership-grants) - [Application Portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=oacf) - [Application Questions PDF](https://www.oshkoshareacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Application-Youth-Campership-Program.pdf) - [Past Grants – Spring 2025](https://www.oshkoshareacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/FY2025-Summary-of-Camperships.pdf) - [Past Grants – Spring 2024](https://www.oshkoshareacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/FY2024-Summary-of-Camperships.pdf) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Title | Email | Phone | Address | |--------------|-----------------------|-------------------------------|---------------|------------------------------------------| | Amy Putzer | Director of Programs | [amy@oshkoshareacf.org](mailto:amy@oshkoshareacf.org) | (920) 426-3993 | 230 Ohio Street, Suite 100, Oshkosh, WI 54902 | | General Info | — | [info@oshkoshareacf.org](mailto:info@oshkoshareacf.org) | (920) 426-3993 | — | [Contact Us Page](https://www.oshkoshareacf.org/contact-us/)

Hiwela Youth Camperships

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