Dear Harbor Camps Families and Supporters,
Each of you profoundly understands how much has changed over the past few years. The rise in anti-trans rhetoric and laws is unprecedented in our nation’s history. This is why we need communities like Harbor Camps more than ever.

Likewise, Harbor Camps takes safety and security very seriously. As a trans-founded and trans-run summer camp, we are particularly aware of the needs and concerns of our community.

Thanks to a successful donor campaign, we have proudly owned our beautiful lakefront property since 2014. Behind our gates, our camp is our private property, and we set the camp rules to create a welcoming community.

It is important to understand that the changing legislation in New Hampshire and elsewhere mainly affects permanent or long-term residents of the state, not our camp population during the summer. Our camp operates as a private entity where kids can be themselves, enjoy being in cabins with kids of similar or different gender identities, and use all-gender bathrooms with private toilets and shower stalls. We have always enjoyed a peaceful co-existence with many helpful neighbors who know us, and we have our longtime facilities manager who lives on site year-round. I (our executive director) sit on the Board of the New Hampshire Camp Directors’ Association, deepening our connection with the state and the region. We enjoy many wonderful allies and friends that surround us. We love our home!

Out of an abundance of caution, after the 2024 presidential election, we decided to begin employing 24/7 security personnel at our camp. (This is something that certain religious camps have increased in recent years as well, and we consulted with several of them during this process.)

These measures build on the founding principles we established back in 2009, which included a decision not to disclose our location publicly. Years ago, with the help of professional consultants and caring members of local law enforcement, we implemented safety measures that are ongoing and continuously reviewed. Yet, quite intentionally, none of this is evident in the camp experience. We are thoughtful about safety while ensuring that the camper experience remains focused on fun, community, confidence, and resilience!

Here at Harbor Camps we also continuously update our emergency procedures for severe weather, fires, and more.

If you have questions about safety, security, and the like, I would be happy to speak with you, as I do with many camp families. Please contact me directly at umut@harborcamps.org or 781-400-1617.

We can’t wait for another wonderful summer with our amazing community under the pines!

Umut Dursun, Executive Director/Camp Director

Security Fund

Because of our mission and the population we serve, we are currently ineligible for federal grants that give funds to protect other types of vulnerable institutions. Therefore, 100 percent of funds to pay for security come from individual donors.

Please consider a donation to our security fund online here.

Or, send a check to our remote office address: Harbor Camps, PO Box 515, Westminster, CO 80036 with “security fund” in the memo line.

We are so grateful to each and every one of you for your support.