Flint Fire Department to host “Camp Fire” summer youth program

FLINT, Mich. - July 1, 2022

The City of Flint Fire Department is taking applications for its second Camp Fire Summer Youth Camp. This immersive camp, available to both boys and girls ages 12-17, teaches kids about the firefighting profession while instilling confidence and leadership skills. This year's event will be held at Flint Fire Station #1 located at 310 E. 5^th Street with the first session beginning Monday, July 11, 2022.

Camp Fire provides hands on learning with state-certified Fire Instructors in both firefighting and EMS training. Instructors also work with participants in the areas of communication, leadership, independence, collaboration and critical thinking. The program was begun in response to research showing that positive interactions and personal achievements for youth can increase confidence and performance in academics and other areas of life while simultaneously leading to a decrease in risky behaviors. Participants can then take the skills and mindset gained from Camp Fire, and apply them to their future goals in college, career, and everyday life.

"Camp Fire is a great opportunity for children in Flint area to engage in activities that could lead to a career in the fire service," said Flint Fire Chief Ray Barton.

There will be two week-long gender-based sessions of Camp Fire, Monday, July 11-15 for girls and July 18-22 for boys. Each session will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, with a maximum of 30 participants per day. Kids who finish the physically demanding program will receive a badge as reward. An evaluation of each participant will be given at the beginning and end of the camp.

"Our children are the future of the fire service," said Deputy Chief Edwards-Clemons. "If they can complete Camp Fire, there is no limit to what they can achieve."

Most of the activities will be held on-site at Flint Fire Station #1 located at 310 E. 5^th Street, but special off-site activities are also scheduled in which transportation will be provided. Lunch will also be provided daily to kids free of charge by the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. Parents are asked to send kids in weather-appropriate clothing and tennis shoes that may get wet or dirty. Applications can be found on Fire Department page of the City of Flint's website, by emailing Deputy Fire Chief Carrie Edwards-Clemons, or by calling 810-762-7336 ext. 5225.

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