African/Caribbean Heritage Camp

We strive to highlight the distinct birth countries and culture of our campers, while also emphasizing the shared experience among adoptees born in African countries, the Caribbean, and Black children born in the U.S.. It is that connection — with other families, a child’s cultural heritage, the greater community, and role models — that affirms a child’s self-worth and belonging.

At African/Caribbean Heritage Camp, we work hard to represent each of the 12 to 15 countries and cultures where our children were born. We are very fortunate to have supportive presenters, entertainers, and counselors from the diverse African/Caribbean community in Colorado and across the country, as well as counselors and presenters who are adoptees themselves. They are the racial mirrors our children need to see, learn from, and often develop lifelong relationships with. The rich and varied African/Caribbean culture is infused in all aspects of camp, for an authentic & fun experience!

Every year at ACHC, campers participate in music, dance, and art workshops, taught exclusively by Black professionals in their field, that highlight the many cultures within the African diaspora, and are favorites for all age groups, including parents! 

We also offer the opportunity at camp for children of all ages to appropriately talk about their feelings and thoughts around adoption, race, culture, also led by professionals in the fields of adoption therapy, art therapy, race education, etc.

We ensure that each camp includes programming designed to equip parents with the tools and understanding to raise Black kids in a predominantly white society, and to raise children who have experienced loss in their young lives. Camp programming is designed to support parents with the ability to advocate for, affirm, and support our kids.

This camp is a blend of cultures, and the kids and families have blended too – all with the common identity of being born into the African/Caribbean or African-American culture, internationally or domestically.  This blending of cultures and families has created an enriching, supportive space for our campers of all ages.

Adoption is also a culture of its own that brings unique joys and challenges to a family’s life. At our camp, children and families are nurtured and supported at every stage of life. Children and parents relish in being with other families “just like theirs.”

A Family Experience

Each camp is a family experience. Adults attend their own workshops and benefit from opportunities to socialize and connect with other parents who have shared experiences and understanding. Non-adopted siblings typically attend camp, and benefit from fun and connection with their peers, while gaining an understanding of adoption and culture. Extended family — grandparents, aunts, uncles — are also welcome to attend camp.

“We See You” Pilot Program

At our 2022 African/Caribbean Heritage Camp, we piloted a new program for preschool through 5th grade, focused on building a positive racial identity and creating space for honest conversations about race through interactive, age-appropriate activities. We partnered with Dr. Apryl Alexander, Clinical Assistant Professor in the Graduate School of Professional Psychology at the University of Denver, and Asia Lyons of Lyons Educational Consulting, to create this program customized for our campers. “We See You” also provides a companion workshop for parents, which provides a research-informed understanding of racial identity development, barriers their children may encounter in developing a positive Black identity, and how to address difficult dialogues around race and other identities.