July is always a fun-filled month with so many special days—and ways—to celebrate. Of course, Independence Day is top of mind, but did you know that Global Hug Your Kids Day, Tell an Old Joke Day, and Peach Ice Cream Day (our favorite) are celebrated, too? Believe it or not, there's even more. July is also National Picnic Month and National Make a Difference to Children Month.

All of these celebratory days and themes remind us at the Community Foundation of Middlesex County (CFMC) why we get so excited about July summer camps! Middlesex County has so many wonderful summer programs offering a broad array of activities and adventures—everything from the arts to youth leadership to the park and rec programs in every town. The teams at summer camps across the county make sure every child can discover new interests, make new friends, and gain a lifetime of memories.

We certainly celebrate CFMC donors who are passionate about providing support to help children of all ages, abilities, and interests be part of the excitement and lifelong impact a positive summer camp experience brings. Thanks to their generosity, CFMC has awarded grants to camp organizations to not only help sustain and grow programs, but to also provide financial assistance for children who do not have the means to attend. We give a shout-out to camp leadership for their commitment to creating diverse, fun, and healthy environments which foster exploration and lasting friendships.

While campers are enjoying summer fun in Middlesex County, let's give a round of applause to Camp Hazen. Camp Hazen YMCA's overnight program, located in Chester, earned a 5-star ranking in Newsweek magazine’s 2024 America’s Best Summer Camp list after rising to the top of an extensive nationwide research study of camp activities, accessibility, staff-to-children ratio, and camp safety. CFMC extends a hearty congratulations to everyone at Camp Hazen for being recognized as a “difference maker” when it comes to summer fun and childhood development.

Thanks to all the amazing camps in our region and to CFMC donors who help provide access to fun and formative experiences which help develop lasting skills and create community for our young people. We are enormously grateful to work with so many community members who are committed to a better future for all, especially our local youth, who are Middlesex County's leaders of tomorrow. Thank you for your generosity of time, talent, and resources supporting local needs, such as animal welfare, civic improvements, community enrichment, education, the environment, health, recreation, and social services. Thank you for helping us make even the smallest gift have a big impact on vital non-profit programs.

CFMC is proud to be accredited with Community Foundations National Standards, the nation's highest and most rigorous standard for philanthropic excellence. We are thrilled to share all the great things that are happening because of good people like you. We invite you to learn more by calling us at 860-347-0025 or visiting us online at middlesexcountycf.org.