Camp Discovery's purpose is to provide educational programs focused on the natural world. Our mission is to "Engage and Inspire Through Discovery in Science and Nature". With 116 acres of conserved forests, meadows, creeks, and wetlands, Camp Discovery offers an ideal setting for students to explore nature and learn about the science behind natural processes. Originally founded in 1985 by Donna Johnson as a recreation therapy program for youth with various disabilities, Camp Discovery shifted its focus to environmental education and nature-based experiences for youth and the community following Ms. Johnson's departure in 2012. Today, Camp Discovery provides a diverse range of field study experiences for students from pre-K through 7th grade, aligning with the SC State Science Standards required for each grade level and assessed in 4th and 6th grade through the SC READY Science assessment. Our programs cover a broad array of topics related to the natural environment, such as habitats, animal and plant adaptations, life cycles, stream health, weathering and erosion, and citizen science initiatives in partnership with the NASA GLOBE (Global Learning and Observation to Benefit the Environment) Program. During the 2023-2024 school year, we served 1,116 students from 16 different schools across three counties, providing educational experiences over 54 days. Of these schools, 31% were Title I schools, 19% were private schools, and 50% were public schools that did not qualify for Title I status. To recruit schools for our field studies, we engage directly with teachers and principals, promote our programs through social media, and participate in events at individual schools. As a result, 13 schools are already scheduled to participate in our programs for the 2024-2025 school year. Students engage in three activities during their 2.5 hour field study which are designed to foster inquiry based learning. For example, in our "Erosion Rocks!" field study, which meets the 4th-grade science standards, students participate in hands-on activities that simulate rock weathering and erosion. They ask questions about which types of weathering create different rock features and use modeling to explore erosion, building their own models to reduce erosion in a creek environment. There is no better way to grasp the power of weathering and erosion than by observing it firsthand in nature. Students hike through our property, identifying various types of weathering and erosion, and conclude their exploration in our wetlands area, where the ecosystem provides a natural example of erosion control. Because of CCCF and community generosity, here's what we achieved together in 2024: Provided nature-based science programs to 1,797 children (1,116 from local schools, 681 campers and Homeschool Explorers) - a 33% increase over 2023! Lowered school field trip costs by 30% Launched a program for homeschooled children - Homeschool Explorers! Awarded camp scholarships to every family in need Performed vital facility maintenance