A spring for new beginnings

This February, 53 Kindred participants spent a weekend back at camp with some of their best camp friends and counselors from the summer. Our young people spent a lot of time bonding indoors near a cozy fire, exploring the wintery wooded trails of Central Wisconsin Environmental Station, and trying new things. Some of the best moments at Kindred are when campers feel safe enough to share their passions with our community. 

We exist because our young people deserve to live in a city where the dignity of all people is upheld and everyone is treated with equity. Young people are growing up in a world, in a city, where they are constantly told they do not belong. That a better Milwaukee is possible. Young people come to Kindred in search of friendship, peace, and true belonging. They are given the space and freedom to explore and discover their passions in life, interests, and identity.

One of our young people brought Tarot cards to camp. When people think of summer camp and young people, tarot readings aren't always the first thing that comes to mind. Honestly, this could have been a moment where our young people shied away from something that seemed so different from what they considered “fun.” However, campers and staff lined up one after one waiting eagerly for their turn to get their cards read.

For one weekend, this young person got a chance to experience a place where they could be themselves. They did not have to fear isolation or being made fun of. As Kindred grows and the more time our young people can learn the community-building skills of kindness, self-awareness, courage, community, and joy, the closer we will be to achieving our vision of a more connected Milwaukee.

Give our young people space to be themselves by making a gift today!