Camp Fire Illinois Prairie (CFIP) believes in and subscribes to the philosophy that youth programs provide children with experiences of group living in the natural environment.  All Programs are founded on Thrive (ology) principles.  Our programs aim to provide creative, fun, educational and relationship building opportunities for people of all ages.  As a result, Camp Fire’s programs naturally utilize resources of the natural surroundings that significantly contribute to the mental, physical, social, and spiritual growth of its participants.

What makes our program special? THRIVE challenges the mind and body.  THRIVE is based on the research- and outcome-based Thriving Framework developed between Camp Fire headquarters and the national THRIVE Foundation for Youth. This approach highlights the importance for youth in finding inner motivational passions, or “Sparks,” that catalyze their personal growth. Youth learn how their brains process information, and come to understand that, like a muscle, the brain grows stronger with challenge. They learn to call on inner reserves for greater effort, how to develop strategies and to seek help as they respond to a challenge. These are essential skills for managing and reaching life goals.