the buford foundation story
The founder of the Buford Foundation, Father Dan Kenney, envisioned a Wyoming wilderness camp to provide a positive experience for youth who lack confidence and self-esteem. The camp helps them discover their resiliency and competency in facing life’s problems.
In 1975, Father Kenney saw the annual wilderness camps take shape through a generous land donation near Alpine, Wyoming. That same year, a second camp was established near Centennial, Wyoming.
The Buford Foundation believes all children deserve the opportunity to succeed. Children’s greatest obstacle is often low self-esteem, but “seeing beauty of the wilderness… [they may] see their own beauty.”
Campers are typical teenagers, often recommended by school counselors or teachers. The teens return as more confident, independent, intuitive and cooperative individuals.
about camp confidence
For over 30 years, the Buford Foundation has provided Camp Confidence programs to help students learn to face the challenges of our changing world.
- Beautiful woodland settings:
Alpine, Wyoming (two-week camp)
Centennial, Wyoming (one-week camp) - Students learn about life, people, and most importantly, themselves.
- Trained counselors help build confidence and self-respect that will buoy them and help propel them toward success throughout their lives.
- The program strengthens families and communities by helping youth pursue their full potential with ethical attitudes, improved self-control, and respect for themselves and others.
- Program counselors and camp activities help students realize the importance of their lives and the differences they can make to our world.