Each summer, the Orcas Island Lions Club steps into the sunshine of youth development through its dedicated support for local children to attend YMCA Camp Orkila—a beloved day camp perched on the northwest shoulder of Orcas Island. Since its founding in 1906, Camp Orkila has fostered growth and community through immersive outdoor experiences on its 280-acre property overlooking pristine marine wilderness. 

How the Grant Program Works

Though details about application procedures aren’t published widely, we know from the Orcas Island Lions Club’s community involvement that they provide financial support to ensure local children can join the day camp experience. This aligns with the Lions’ tradition of offering named scholarships and grants for community enrichment, as seen with their support across initiatives like the Food Bank and Camp Horizon. 

What Camp Orkila Offers

Camp Orkila’s day camp (designed for grades 1 through 6) is a highlight of summer for many island kids. Campers explore the outdoors, channel their creativity, and build confidence through activities such as archery, arts & crafts, climbing, boating, campfires, environmental education, and sun-soaked BMX riding. With waterfront access, marine life discovery, and more, nature becomes both classroom and playground. 

Why This Matters for Orcas Island Kids

Thanks to the Lions’ grants, more children gain access to a transformational summer experience — particularly those who might face financial barriers. Camp imparts life skills, nurtures friendships, and deepens appreciation for the natural world, all within a community-centered setting right here on Orcas. It’s more than fun: it’s a summer story that many islanders carry into adulthood.

Program Heritage and Broader Context

The impact of such Camp Orkila grants is long-standing. A similar initiative, the “Partners With Youth” campaign (circa 2010), raised funds to send roughly 40 local children per summer to day camp, with some receiving full or partial scholarships, demonstrating a sustained tradition of island investment in youth enrichment.