Summer camp is a foundational experience for many children.  

Chance 2 Camp strives to extend the opportunity for a camp experience to children who may otherwise be unable to participate.  

Sara Martens, the Community Support Coordinator for the “Chance 2” programs run through the Child and Family Services Foundation, raises funds for children to reap the benefits of programs such as Chance 2 Camp.  

“[We] partner with the community to provide opportunities that will enhance the physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and personal well-being of children. Our foundation just believes that every child, regardless of their family circumstances, deserves a chance to soar to new heights”. 

The Child and Family Services Foundation offers several “Chance 2” programs, including Chance 2 Grow, Chance 2 Learn, and Chance 2 Camp.  

“[Chance 2 Camp] is a program near and dear to our hearts. [It provides] summer camperships to a maximum of $400.00 per child, per year. Children who, because of their economic circumstances in their families, would otherwise not have the opportunity for a summer camp experience.” 

Chance 2 Camp will hold a barbecue fundraiser on Friday, June 14th, from 11-1:30 in the Winkler Co-op food store parking lot. There will be sausage burgers, hot dogs, chips, drinks, dessert, and draws for raffle prizes. Martens says that there will also be tables and chairs set up so that attendees can enjoy their food, socialize, and learn about the programs that the foundation offers. Martens invites the attendance of anyone who wishes to give back to the community and send more children to camp.

Chance 2 Camp members grilling burgers and hot dogsSupplied photo.

The funds raised at the Chance 2 Camp fundraiser will stay local.  

Martens says that she has processed 94 applications for the Winkler area. The applications tend to be for Winkler Bible Camp, Circle Square Ranch, and Valley View Bible Camp.  

For Martens, the community is an essential part of the Chance 2 Camp program.  

“I just want to say ‘thank you’ to the wonderful support of the Winkler community that has been helping us with the barbecue. [Volunteering] your time to help flip burgers, supporting us with items [for] the raffle, and raising money for the children... even coming to the barbecue and supporting us that way.”  

The Chance 2 Camp program is something that Martens is passionate about.  

“Sometimes the smallest opportunities can make a big difference in a child's life.” 

Listen to the full interview interview with Sara Martens and Connie Bailey below.