From Durham to the Nation: The Evolution of DYA into CJF Summer Camp Programs
For over a decade, Durham Youth Alliance (DYA) has been a cornerstone of youth development in Durham, NC. Known for its transformational programming and the now-legendary DYA Summer Camp, the organization was famously featured in a two-page spread in the Durham Herald in 2012, where it was dubbed “The Powerhouse Camp of Durham.” The website www.durhamyouthalliance.org still stands as a living archive of the legacy DYA built—one rooted in empowerment, edutainment, and authentic community impact.
But now, things are growing.
Introducing: CJF Summers – A New Chapter in the Same Story
The organization formerly known as Durham Youth Alliance was never just about Durham. It was the local expression of a broader vision: CJF America. As CJF America evolves, it is expanding its Youth Alliance programs into new cities and states—and with that growth comes a refreshed identity for its flagship summer experience. What was once Camp DYA is now known as CJF Summers or the CJF Summer Camp.
Why the change? Because greatness should never be confined to one zip code.
While the name has changed, the heart, soul, and impact of the camp remain the same. CJF Summers proudly carries forward the tradition that made Camp DYA stand out: a powerful blend of fun, learning, leadership development, and self-discovery. The mission hasn’t shifted—it’s simply expanded.
Camp DYA: The Legacy That Shaped CJF Summers
Ask anyone who attended Camp DYA and they’ll tell you—it was different. It was magical. It was, in every sense, a launchpad for young world changers.
Camp DYA wasn’t just a place to pass the summer. It was a purpose-driven experience built to spark curiosity, unleash creativity, and develop confidence. Campers were immersed in a world of art, dance, sports, theater, science, music, technology, martial arts, yoga, and more, all while engaging in meaningful conversation, service learning, and deep personal exploration.
What made it different? It wasn’t just the activities—it was the connection. The relationships. The community. A true sense of belonging and discovery.
At DYA, campers were more than students—they were seen as “world changers,” guided by top college mentors who brought both inspiration and relatability. These were leaders who understood the journey because they had lived it—and thrived.
CJF Summers Carries the Torch
The spirit that defined Camp DYA lives on in CJF Summers. Whether in Durham, Atlanta, Chicago, or beyond, the core values remain unchanged:
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EDUTAINMENT – education + entertainment, reimagined
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Mentorship from top-tier college students
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Safe, nurturing, and empowering environments
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Balanced right-brain/left-brain programming
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An incredible range of offerings—from filmmaking and yoga to dodgeball and water slides
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A family-like atmosphere where every child is valued
Just as DYA produced emotionally resilient, joy-filled young leaders, CJF Summers is doing the same—on a national scale. It’s still the place where kids gain self-esteem, build new friendships, and have unforgettable, life-shaping fun in the sun.
Legacy in Motion
The Durham Herald once asked: “Is Camp DYA Different?” And the answer, then and now, is a bold yes.
Though it now wears a new name, CJF Summers continues the powerful legacy of Durham’s “Powerhouse Camp,” expanding its reach while preserving its magic. This is where education meets joy, where kids become leaders, and where a safe, inspiring community helps each child bloom into their fullest potential.
