Camp Maintenance Fund Grant Program

The Camp Maintenance Fund Grant Program, supported by the Gray Family Foundation, aims to enhance outdoor school camp facilities across Oregon. Since 2014, the foundation has invested over $500,000 annually to improve existing camps, focusing on those hosting outdoor school programs. Priority is given to organizations demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, while ensuring accessibility for all students, teachers, and parents. This initiative encourages collaboration and the sharing of best practices among grantees.

Background
John Gray identified the ongoing maintenance of Outdoor School camp facilities as a critical factor in preserving a full range of options for kids to get outside. Since 2014, the Gray Family Foundation has annually invested over $500,000 directly into the improvement of existing facilities at Oregon’s outdoor residential camps throughout the state.
Gray Family Foundation awards grants to those overnight facilities that have maintenance and improvement needs. Priority is given to applicants that host outdoor school programs, are geographically dispersed, and reflect Gray Family Foundation’s values regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Eligibility

We will consider applications submitted by non-profit camp facilities or school, districts, tribal entities, or 501(c)3 non-profit organizations submitting on behalf of an organizational camp in Oregon.Furthermore, competitive applicants are camp facilities:currently hosting 5th/6th grade outdoor school programs or actively working towards becoming a host site for outdoor school programming;licensed in the state of Oregon as an organizational camp;committed to dedicating staff and volunteer time to the success of the proposal;exhibiting expertise in facilities maintenance and an understanding of needs of outdoor school programs;demonstrating a commitment to creating inclusive and accessible camp facilities for students, teachers, and parents from diverse communities and lifestyles; andWith the ability and willingness to share best practices with peer grantee networks.Any fiscally sponsored projects/organizations should align with the applying organization’s mission.Proposals from faith-based organizations are welcome as long as programs and services do not include the promotion of a singular belief system, are extended to participants beyond the congregation, and provide an environment which is welcoming to and inclusive of all user groups.

Ineligibility

The foundation will not fund:Capital projects for new constructionPurchase of additional propertyOrganizations who received funding the previous yearDeficit funding or elimination of operating deficitsAnnual fund appeals or endowment fundsReligious activitiesGrants or loans to individuals