Reflect. Reconnect. Reinvest.
Friends, supporters and alumni of Camp Fire gathered June 3rd at Camp Tanadoona to celebrate 100 years of Camp Fire. The event celebrated the many successes of Camp Fire's first 100 years and unveiled Camp Fire's vision for the future, including plans to modernize and expand Camp Tanadoona.
Vision for Camp Fire's Future
"Tonight is our moment to draw on our strong history and build an even stronger future together," Camp Fire CEO Marnie Wells told event attendees. Wells spoke of how Camp Fire has impacted hundreds of thousands of youth in Minnesota and told the stories of many individuals whose experiences with Camp Fire have shaped their lives.
"Our vision for the next 100 years is to proudly carry forward this legacy," Wells said. "Hand in hand with you, we will make our mark in history by building the next 100 years of curious and courageous leaders."
Wells announced the launch of a capital campaign to reinvest in Camp Tanadoona. "We feel a moral obligation to the youth of Minnesota to open our front gate, so they have an opportunity to experience this magical place we call Camp Tanadoona," Wells said. "Where they can learn new skills, make new friends, experience nature, and reach their potential." The three-year campaign will raise $1.5 million to modernize and expand Camp Tanadoona.
Read the full text of Wells' remarks.
An Enthusiastic Response
A few reactions from guests about the event.
“It was a great event. As we were driving home, [my wife] said she could see why I was so passionate about Camp Fire for all these years. Great programs, led by inspired leaders, with a great purpose.”
“The event was great; I had a wonderful time and will continue to be an advocate for Camp Fire in the community. I'm a big fan of the organization!”
“It was a blast last Thursday! Well done event...”
“Thanks so much for the kind note. We had a great time at camp Thursday night. Congratulations to you again on the great evening.”
“It was a lovely event in every respect.”
“You did once again a FABULOUS job with the event!!”
“What a great event and amazing camp! It was fun to see all of the energy for the visions ahead.”
United States Senator Amy Klobuchar, Fox 9 News anchor Tim Blotz, Camp Fire club member Jada and Chanhassen Mayor Tom Furlong each spoke about the impact of Camp Fire.
Senator Amy Klobuchar
Senator Klobuchar had the crowd in stitches as she recounted stories of her time as a Camp Fire kid and a camper at Camp Tanadoona. She spoke on the lasting impact Camp Fire had on her, from the skills and confidence she developed to still remembering all the words and motions to the Camp Tanadoona song, "Up at Tanadoona," which she sang for the crowd.
Fox 9 News Anchor Tim Blotz
Tim Blotz told the touching story of how his daughter Emerson, after moving to the Twin Cities from New Mexico, only really found her place in Minnesota when she came to Camp Tanadoona. "Camp Fire gave us our daughter back," Blotz said. He recounted how, after a tough first few months in Minnesota, Emerson had a great time at camp and was given the award of "Happiest Camper" following her first week at Camp Tanadoona.
Jada, Camp Fire club member
Jada is 8 years old and attends Central Park Elementary School. Her older brother, Jared, is 11 years old and recently “graduated” into the teen club – allowing Jada to step up into a leadership position in the youth club. Jada has been attending Camp Fire since March 2009. She spoke about how Camp Fire has been a fun thing for her to do after school that has taught her a lot.
Chanhassen Mayor Tom Furlong
Mayor Tom Furlong has served as Chanhassen's Mayor since January 2003. As Mayor and through his involvement with the Boy Scouts, he has spent a great deal of time on Camp Tanadoona’s grounds and knows how important Camp Fire is to his community.
Mayor Furlong presented a proclamation naming Thursday, June 3, 2010 as "Camp Fire USA Minnesota Council Day" in the city of Chanhassen.
See the proclamation.
See photos of the event. | Learn about the capital campaign.
Thanks to our silent auction donors:
Sandra Aalbers • Nick Aalbers • Alpine Cabinet Company • Ben & Jerry's • Burl Oaks Golf Club • Cabela's • Chandlers 4 Corners • Cosetta Inc. • Dale Studios • Deuce Brand • Fringe • Hotel Pattee Perry • Elsie Hoy • Bonnie Hullett • Isabel Bloom, LLC • La Mie • Lions Tap • Lafayette Club • Lunds • Marriott Minneapolis City Center • Maynard's Restaurant • McCormick & Schmick's • Pat McGowan • Meredith Corporation • Minneapolis Institute of Art • Minnesota Landscape Arboretum • Paul & Jane Mortell • Doug Norris • Out of My Mind Designs • Darlene Palmer • Eddie Palmer • Plan Toys, Inc. • Pheasants Forever • Room & Board • Scheels • Staples Promotional Products • Sunsets Woodbury/Wayzata • Tom Conlon Photography • Twill • Twin City Attorneys, PA • ULTA • Wild Rose Casino
Share stories, see pictures and learn more about Camp Fire's history at our special Centennial website.
