Camp Free2Be is designed to serve as a safe and affirming space for trans and nonbinary youth.
Throughout the week, campers build lasting friendships, celebrate being their authentic selves, and most importantly—have fun!
This summer, we’re offering two week-long sessions. Campers are welcome to join us for a single week, or both! Each session has space for 40 campers.
Through Camp Free2Be’s Volunteer Junior Counselor Program, trans and nonbinary teens ages 14-18 can serve as role models, support camp activities, and learn leadership skills.
Before registering for Camp Free2Be, you must attend a Welcome Session. This is your chance to learn more about camp, ask questions, get to know the SMYAL staff, and for us to meet you! If you have previously attended a Welccome Session, this step is not required.
March 19th
April 2nd
April 9th
April 23rd
Registration for current Little SMYALs families and returning campers is now open through your Programs Portal.
Once you attend a Welcome Session, you will be given access to register on the Programs Portal.
We welcome all youth ages 6-14 who identify as transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse. Our campers have a range of experiences, so wherever you are on your journey, you belong here!
Camp Free2Be is hosted by SMYAL and facilitated by background-checked staff with extensive experience in youth programming and development.
This year’s Camp Free2Be will remain FREE for campers! This includes registration, activity materials, a camp t-shirt, and a daily snack.
While this year’s Camp Free2Be will remain cost-free for families, we strongly appreciate any financial support you can provide. This year, it will cost approximately $600 for a single camper to attend one week of programming. Anything you can provide to help offset our costs is appreciated as we face a year of unprecedented financial challenges. You can add “Free2Be” in the comments for your donation.
Click here to make a donation to Camp Free2Be.
This year, Camp Free2Be will be hosted in Northern Washington, DC just south of Silver Spring. The exact location will only be shared with registered campers.
Transportation options include:
Camp Free2Be is hosted in a fully ADA accessible location.
ASL interpretation will be provided during Session 1 of Camp Free2Be. If you need ASL interpretation, please note that in your registration so we can coordinate.
Camp Free2Be prioritizes spaces for neurodivergent campers, including decompression and quiet spaces, and onsite mental health support.
We know everyone’s needs and experiences are unique, so please let us know in your registration if there are specific ways we can support your camper’s success at camp.
Through Camp Free2Be’s Volunteer Junior Counselor Program, trans and nonbinary teens ages 14-18 can serve as role models, support camp activities, and learn leadership skills.
There are two Junior Counselor roles: Cabin Counselors and Admin Support Counselors. Counselor applications are due April 21st.
Looking for mental health support? SMYAL offers free therapy for queer and trans youth in both English and Spanish.
Learn more about SMYAL’s affirming mental health services and get connected here.
© 2021 SMYAL | 410 7th Street SE, Washington, DC 20003 | 202.546.5940 | [email protected] | Accessibility Policy
