As summer approaches, parents and kids alike are looking for an exciting, enriching experience that offers not only fun, but also personal growth and development. That’s exactly what CJF Summer Camp promises: a unique blend of education, entertainment, and empowerment—all while creating lifelong memories. Originally known as Durham Youth Alliance (DYA), this transformative camp experience has grown beyond Durham, expanding to new locations across the country. Here’s everything you need to know about CJF Summer Camp and what makes it the perfect choice for your child this summer!
A Legacy of Excellence
For over a decade, Durham Youth Alliance (DYA) was at the heart of youth development in Durham, NC. With its legendary DYA Summer Camp, the organization earned the title of the “Powerhouse Camp of Durham”, a title it proudly holds to this day. Featured in the Durham Herald in 2012, DYA’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and world changers became a local hallmark.
But as CJF America has grown and expanded its mission, DYA Summer Camp evolved into CJF Summers, a refreshed identity that now stretches across multiple cities and states, bringing the same impactful experience to children nationwide.
What Makes CJF Summers Different?
So, what’s the secret to the success of CJF Summers? The answer is simple: it’s a perfect mix of fun, learning, and leadership development.
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Edutainment: At CJF Summers, kids don’t just learn—they experience education through play! With activities like art, theater, dance, and sports, learning is fun, interactive, and tailored to each child’s interests.
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Mentorship: Each camper is paired with passionate college mentors who provide guidance, inspiration, and real-life insights into the academic and personal journeys that await them. These mentors—young leaders who have excelled in their own studies—are the perfect role models for campers.
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Balanced Programming: CJF Summers is about more than just arts and crafts. It’s about stimulating both the creative and academic sides of the brain. From coding and game design classes to painting and music, every camper has the opportunity to develop new skills while having fun!
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A Safe, Supportive Environment: Campers are part of a community where they are seen, heard, and celebrated. It’s a place where children can make new friends, explore their interests, and most importantly, be themselves.
Exciting Activities at CJF Summers
At CJF Summers, every day is packed with exciting activities that encourage self-expression, creativity, and teamwork. Here are just a few highlights of what campers can look forward to:
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Dance Classes: Campers can explore different dance styles, from hip-hop to contemporary, all while boosting their confidence, rhythm, and coordination.
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Game Classes & Coding Workshops: For the tech-savvy campers, there are game design and coding workshops where they can learn how to create their own games, programs, and tech innovations.
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Painting Classes: If your child is artistic, they’ll love the painting classes, where they can experiment with colors, techniques, and mediums to create their own masterpieces.
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Overnight Camping Day & Night: An unforgettable experience where campers bond under the stars, enjoy nature, and develop teamwork and resilience in a fun outdoor setting.
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Talent Show & Parents Day: A chance for your child to showcase their talents and growth throughout the camp. Whether it’s singing, dancing, or acting, the Talent Show will leave you beaming with pride. Parents also get to join in the celebration during Parents Day, where they can witness firsthand the amazing journey their child has had.
Our Commitment to Academic Growth
While CJF Summers is all about fun, we also know that summer is a great time for academic growth. This year, all campers will have the opportunity to participate in fun, interactive math, reading, and EOC test prep sessions. But don’t worry, it’s not all about drills and textbooks—our approach is designed to be engaging and supportive, so kids can grow stronger academically without sacrificing the joy of summer.
Each child will be assessed based on their strengths and receive targeted support in areas where they need a little extra help. The goal is simple: to return to school feeling sharper, more confident, and ready to tackle new challenges.
A Lasting Impact
The impact of CJF Summers extends far beyond the campgrounds. It’s about building leadership, confidence, and emotional resilience in a fun and supportive environment. As children take part in the camp’s activities, they gain life skills such as critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration—all of which are essential for success in school and beyond.
Whether your child is an aspiring artist, future tech mogul, or athletic superstar, CJF Summers is designed to unlock their full potential while providing a safe and joyful space to grow.
Ready to Make This Summer Unforgettable?
If you’re looking for a summer experience that combines fun, learning, and personal growth, look no further than CJF Summers. With our unique approach to edutainment, mentorship, and community-building, your child will leave camp not only with new skills and friendships but also with the confidence to take on the world.
Join us at CJF Summers—where the camp is as unique as your child, and every day is an opportunity to grow, learn, and have fun!
