CAMP FLIGHT '25

Our Summer long program encourages kids to "discover their passion". Located in the heart of Bronzeville, current 3rd-7th graders (rising 4th-8th graders) experience different industries and disciplines through fun, engaging summer camp activities! EXPERIENCE, LEARN & PLAY!
Programming is from 8:30AM - 5PM daily.
Check out our highlight video from 2023!

Welcome to Camp Flight

Film Making: Stop Motion

June 10th-14th

Dive into the world of animation with our Stop Motion Filmmaking Week at camp! Kids will unleash their creativity, improve attention to detail, and develop teamwork skills, all while having a blast bringing imaginative stories to life. Join us for a cinematic week where every child becomes a budding filmmaker! Facilitated by Filmmaker Coquie Hughes.

Money: Crafting Wealthy Futures

June 17th-21st

Introduction into the wide world of finances! Learn about managing finances, investing in stocks,  and other investment options through fun gamified activities. All young people need this basic understanding. Plus, let’s throw in a friendly game of Shark Tank to end the week! 

Mastering the Art of Debate

Jun 24th-28th

Embark on a week-long journey of intellectual sparring and eloquent expression in our Debate Week! Students will immerse themselves in the art of persuasive discourse, honing critical thinking and public speaking skills. Through lively debates, engaging topics, and expert guidance, participants will emerge as confident communicators ready to articulate their ideas with finesse and passion!

Science: STEAM Lab

July 1st-5th

Dive into a week of scientific wonders with our STEAM Lab Week! This hands-on exploration of the basics of chemistry invites students to roll up their sleeves and engage in a variety of interactive experiments. From vibrant reactions to immersive projects, participants will not only uncover the mysteries of chemistry but also cultivate a deeper passion for learning and discovery!

Photo Journalism

July 8th-12th

Facilitated by True Star Media, students are immersed into the amazing world of Photojournalism. During this interactive course, students will learn how to tell a story through images

Robotics & Programming

July 15th-19th

Embark on an exciting journey into the world of technology and innovation with our Robotics Week! This immersive course explores the fundamentals of design, programming, and engineering. Through hands-on activities and creative challenges, participants will cultivate problem-solving skills and a passion for futuristic technology. Join us for a week of excitement and discovery, where the future of robotics comes to life!

Mentoring Week

Jul 22nd-26th

Experience a dynamic week of gender-specific mentorship for boys and girls! Tailored to develop the whole child, this transformative week features engaging activities, discussions, and mentor-guided sessions. Join us for a unique journey of empowerment, camaraderie, and self-discovery, building a foundation for success.

Rowing Week with CPD

Jul 29-Aug 2nd

Did you know you could row to college? Flight attendees will bus to Lincoln Park’s Boat Club where the LPBC’s Coaching Staff teaches the basics of both sculling and sweep rowing, giving the young athlete a multi-disciplinary experience. Athletes will develop an understanding of how boats move and balance, as well as the impact of wind and waves on the watercraft. The aim is to improve a young athlete’s confidence and intuition on the water, athletic skill, and overall boating competence.

Golf Week with First Tee

Aug 5th-9th

Embark on a week of swing and success with our Golf Adventure! Students will board a bus each day to the golf course, immersing themselves in the basics of the game. From perfecting their stance to mastering the art of the swing, participants will not only embrace the joy of golf but also unlock valuable skills for scholarships and business networking. Join us for a week of outdoor exploration, camaraderie, and the thrill of teeing off toward a bright future!

Culinary Arts & Nutrition

Aug 12th-16th

The body is an amazing machine and depending on its fuel sources, it can affect its performance. Students learn the importance of the food that they put in their bodies while preparing healthy, delicious meals. Activity facilitated by Eating to Live.

Science: STEAM Lab

June 16th-20th

We kick off Camp Flight with our very own STEAM LAB, where science, technology, engineering, art, and math collide in the most hands-on, mind-expanding way possible. This is not about worksheets and formulas—this is about creating, building, experimenting, and making connections between what we learn and how we live. LOTUS has been crafting STEAM experiences that hit different, and this summer, we are going bigger than ever.

Financial Literacy: So You Want To Be A Boss?

June 23rd-27th

This is Shark Tank, but for real life! Attorney Joan Clay and The Village Legal and Community Project (TVLCP) is coming through to break down the numbers game—how money moves, how to make it work for you, and how to pitch like a boss. This session is for future entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone who plans to control their own financial destiny. If you do not know your numbers, you are just guessing.

Culinary

June 30-Jul 4th

We are turning the lab into a kitchen, because knowing how to grow food is only half the journey—knowing how to prepare and transform it is the next level. 5918 Catering is showing us how to take the fresh ingredients we harvest from the garden and turn them into real, delicious meals. Campers will get hands-on experience cutting, preparing, and cooking, learning that food is both science and culture on a plate.

Filmmaking

Jul 7th-11th

From concept to creation, we are diving into the world of storytelling through film with none other than Coquie Hughes, an independent film powerhouse. Campers will write, direct, and produce short film projects while learning how to shape narratives that represent who we are and where we come from.

True Star Media Lab: Lights, Camera, Create!

Jul 14th-18th

True Star is running a high-energy, creative media workshop, where campers will produce content that amplifies their voices. Film, photography, journalism—this is the place where media becomes our tool for storytelling.

Forensics: Cracking the Case!

Jul 21st-25th

Our Forensics Lab is built for the curious minds who love a good mystery. We are stepping into the role of detectives, analyzing evidence, and cracking cases using real-life forensic science techniques.

eGaming with Kevin Fair

Jul 28th- Aug 1st

Gaming is more than a hobby—it is a multibillion-dollar industry, and we are getting in on the action. Kevin Fair is breaking down how gaming turns into business, how strategy and problem-solving apply to real life, and, of course, we will be playing some of the best competitive games out.

Robotics

Aug 4th- 8th

We are turning the lab into a kitchen, because knowing how to grow food is only half the journey—knowing how to prepare and transform it is the next level. 5918 Catering is showing us how to take the fresh ingredients we harvest from the garden and turn them into real, delicious meals. Campers will get hands-on experience cutting, preparing, and cooking, learning that food is both science and culture on a plate.

Golf w/ First Tee Golf

Aug 11th-15th

Golf is strategy, patience, and finesse—and First Tee Golf is here to make sure our campers know how to swing with skill and confidence. This is more than a game; it is about access, networking, and playing in spaces where big moves are made.

*Weekly lineup subject to change

additional experiences

Sailing (Opt In): July 14th - July 25th

Embark on an exhilarating voyage with our Sailing Weeks! In an exciting collaboration with The Jackson Park Yacht Club Foundation (JPYC Foundation), this two week add-on program offers a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in boating and water activities. Loaded with adventure, participants will board the bus daily, setting sail for two weeks of hands-on learning. Join us for a nautical journey that combines education, adventure, and the thrill of navigating the open waters!”

Students will not be participating in True Star Media & Forensics these weeks. 

Additional $100/week.

Capacity: 15 Campers

Team Rowing (Opt In): Aug 4th - 8th

We are rowing in sync, building endurance, and learning the importance of teamwork with the pros at Lincoln Park Boat Club. This is the ultimate test of strength, rhythm, and collaboration.

Students will not be participating in Robotics this week. 

No additional cost.

Gardening

Campers will join community based researcher & avid gardener, Karen “Becky” Fair of Grow Sumthin, as we plant our summer garden. Campers will lay the groundwork in Week 1 and reap the rewards of their hard work in Week 10 during our harvest. Students will be able to have tangible items related to gardening to take home with them such as new plants, small pots, worksheet gardening projects, and resources to other gardens in the Bronzeville area.

Gardening

Campers will lay the groundwork in Week 1 and reap the rewards of their hard work in Week 9 during our harvest. Students will be able to have tangible items related to gardening to take home with them such as new plants, small pots, worksheet gardening projects, and resources to other gardens in the Bronzeville area.

Limited Seats

45 Participants Only

Grades

Rising

4th-8th

NEIU Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies (CCICS)

700 E Oakwood Blvd, Chicago, IL 60653

CUSTOMIZE Your Summer!
Sign Up for the weeks that work for your family!

$2500

Full 9-Week Camp

OR

$300

1 Weekly Camp

Typical Daily Schedule

Below is a typical schedule for our campers during Summer Camp. Individual times may vary depending on camper groupings and activities.

Before Care (7:30 AM - 8:30 AM)

Additional $40/week.

Pre-camp / Check-in (8:30 AM - 9:00 AM)

Check in with security desk. Join other campers for some fun board games and light arts & crafts.

Start Camp & Warm-up (9:00 AM - 9:30 AM)

Start the day with ice breaker games and morning focus activities.

Weekly Theme Activity (9:30 AM - 10:30 AM)

Dive into this week's focus (i.e. Chemistry, Rowing, etc.). Hands-on activities will be led by our specialized instructors who are industry professionals.

Action Time (10:30 AM - 11:30 AM)

Supervised activities led by our fun-loving staff (i.e. kickball, arts & crafts, frisbee golf, etc.).

Lunch (11:30 AM - 12:00 PM)

Lunch provided by LOTUS or bring your own.

Camper Choice Activity (12:00 PM - 12:30 PM)

Outdoor time gives campers an opportunity to blow off some steam after lunch. This is a great way to get energized before the next fun-filled activity.

Book Club (12:30 PM - 1:15 PM)

Guided book readings with books that students can add to their personal libraries. FREE BOOKS!!

Weekly Theme Activity (1:15 PM - 2:15 PM)

Continue with a week focused activity to reinforce topics discussed in the morning.

Snack Break (2:15 PM - 2:30 PM)

Snacks provided by Camp.

Fun Time (2:30 PM - 3:30 PM)

More supervised activities led by our innovative staff (i.e. kahoot quizes, gardening, water balloon toss, etc.).

Clean-Up & Check-Out (3:30 PM - 4:00 PM)

Campers say goodbye to their new friends as Parents arrive and check out their campers from security.

Aftercare (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM)

Camp day has ended but if you need aftercare, we will have it available ($70/week).

Below is a typical schedule for our campers.

Actual times may vary depending on camper grouping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Of course. We offer 10% discount on the 2nd & 3rd child. Contact us and we’ll walk you through application.

No problem. We tried to build a program that accommodates the needs of families. You can sign up for any number of weeks, but of course, we recommend all 10!

No, we will be with our families on these days and hope that you all take the days to do the same!

Possibly. We’re always looking for parent volunteers to support some of our activities. If you are interested, please let us know and we will follow-up if an opportunity comes up.

Absolutely. Our lunches are just an option.

We will be providing one snack per day. We do recommend campers bring water bottles for easy access.

If you cancel:

  • If you cancel within 24 hours of purchases made, you will receive a full refund.
  • If you cancel between now and up to four (4) business days prior to your camp start date, you will receive a 100% credit for each session you purchased, less a $50 processing fee for each session you cancel, usable for future LOTUS offerings through August 31, 2026 and transferable to any family member.
  • After four (4) business days prior to your camp start date there will be no credits or refunds given.
  • If canceling for illness, you will be offered a free transfer to another week of camp. If you choose to decline, the standard cancellation policies apply. Proof of illness by written statement of a licensed physician may be required for any type of credit or refund offered by camp.

If LOTUS cancels:

  • If we cancel due to state, county, or school health orders or mandates, you will receive a 90% refund to the original payment method and a 10% credit that can be used through August 31, 2025.
  • If we cancel for any other reason, you can choose between a 100% refund to the original payment method, or a 100% credit that can be used through August 31, 2025.
  • If we cancel in the middle of a weekly session due to state, county, or school health orders or mandates, you will receive a prorated credit based on the number of days canceled in that week that can be used through August 31, 2026.

What are the hours of camp?

Camp runs from June 16th to August 16th, M-F from 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (closed June 19th & July 4th). If there is enough interest, we will work on before & aftercare options.

Most weeks our focused curriculum starts in the mornings, so we strongly encourage campers to arrive by 9:00 am.

What is your transfer policy? 

You may transfer to a different weekly session at any time, up until four (4) days before the start of the registered camp session at no charge, pending space availability.

* To submit a transfer request , please email: info@lotuschicago.org.

What ages can attend Camp Flight?

We offer our Camp Flight program for rising 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. 

How will campers be grouped?

At Camp Flight, we will group campers by common grades. If our enrollment is skewed more heavily towards one age group, we may have 2 classes for one grade and combine the others. Our curriculum is carefully differentiated for each group offering.

Can my child attend with a camper aide?

While our camp isn’t specifically designed to accommodate campers with special needs, we believe that a great experience can still be had. We also welcome camper aides, provided that they go through our onboarding process prior to the start of camp. NOTE: This process needs to be completed before the start of your camp week.

We can usually accommodate most common needs and/or potential challenges, but we know that every person and family is unique. Please feel free to contact us at: liftingus.lotus@gmail.com for more information about whether our camp would be a good fit for your child.

Can my camper attend partial days/weeks?

Our camp is designed to unfold across five full  days (Monday through Friday, 8:30am – 5pm). We recommend that campers stay for the full camp experience. We do not pro-rate for missed hours or days of camp.

How do you supervise campers?

We pride ourselves on a small group format where staff can work closely with campers and provide the personalized encouragement and support they need. During class time, we maintain a camper-to-staff ratio of 8:1. Camp Flight campers are never alone—even trips to the restroom happen with a buddy or in a group—and our staff is trained to take attendance during every transition.

Can my camper join their sibling/friend in an older/younger age group?

We carefully craft our curriculum to provide the perfect amount of challenge and fun for kids at every level. That’s why, unfortunately, we cannot group differently aged campers together.

What happens if the week of camp I want to enroll in is full?

If the camp week you want to enroll in or transfer to is already full, you can join the waitlist for that session online. It’s free to join a waitlist, and there is no obligation to enroll if a spot becomes available.

Is there a deadline to enroll in camp?

The enrollment deadline is May 31st, pending availability. But please note that we do expect camp to fill up quickly, so enrolling earlier is better to ensure your spot.

Do you have protocol in the event of an emergency, like a fire?

We have evacuation plans at our sites and camp staff is trained on what to do in the event of almost any emergency, including earthquakes, fires, airborne exposures and much more.

What are your COVID safety protocols?

The safety of our camp community is our top priority. Our camp site will follow the most current federal, state and local health guidelines regarding COVID-19. Our team will continuously monitor changes to the guidelines and update families of major changes.

Do you require parents to show an ID at check-out?

Yes, anyone who is picking up your child from camp must bring their ID and be listed on your child’s account as an authorized pick up.

What is your hiring process?

Our staff goes through a rigorous interview process that includes an application, in-person interview, reference check and criminal background check; leadership team members will attend additional one-on-one interviews. Those that meet our standard of excellence are invited to join the team. Once hired, all staff receive several hours of in-person training, followed by ongoing supervision and professional development provided by the Camp Director. 

What if my child gets hurt?

We do everything we can to keep your campers safe, and we’re prepared to support them in the event of an injury. All camp staff Camp Directors and Assistant Camp Directors are first-aid and CPR certified. We notify parents of minor injuries (like scraped knees) during the check-out process every day. In the event of a more serious injury, we will call 911 if needed, and notify the parents or guardians immediately.

How do you handle serious allergies at camp?

We take allergies very seriously. As part of the enrollment process, you’ll complete a detailed Camper Information form with any information we should know about your camper’s allergies. We send this information to the staff at camp. Before camp begins, we welcome you to contact the Camp Director to talk through any concerns or specific instructions you may have.

Our camp location is nut-free. Our staff members are trained in how to recognize the signs of anaphylactic shock and administer an EpiPen, if needed. EpiPens brought to camp will remain with the camper and supervising staff members at all times.