Harold Robinson Foundation

I first heard about this foundation through a friend of mine who worked for them. It took me about a year to actually check it out, but once I did, it changed my life. I went to the camp in December of 2016 and cried my eyes out. The work these people do is so incredible. They work on trying to ensure that kids have hope for the future. This is what the Harold Robinson Foundation does: provide hope to the hopeless. Since visiting, I have become involved in the foundation. Once you find out about it and see what they’re doing it’s hard not to get involved. I have volunteered teaching at the camp, which was such an invaluable experience that I will cherish for life. I really can’t wait to get back there to give more. I could go into a long litany about what the foundation actually does, but I think you need to find out for yourself. There is no way for me to really explain it. Once you experience it you will know. Please check it out. Go for it. The kids need you. We need you. Our future needs you.

I am a recent board member to HRF. My son Ben started attending Canyon Creek Summer Camp in 2013 when he was 9 years old. Going to camp changed the way he looked at the world. He found his home away from home and the love and lust for life he felt at camp was truly life changing for him. Soon after attending his first summer session, he learned about the Harold Robinson Foundation and their work with Camp Ubuntu. At 9 years old, he could not imagine children existed who could not have the same access to camp he did. He could not comprehend what life would be like for someone to not have that experience of love, nurturing, teamwork, fun...all the things you get from camp experience. So, instead of just donating money, he became active! He began to work at the retreats and experience firsthand what the unbelievable impact of bringing someone from a broken, crime-filled world to camp for one weekend could have. Ben is now 14 and continues to dedicate his time to Camp Ubuntu and helping those in need. I was so inspired by his work and dedication to this amazing organization, I became more and more involved over the years to where I was honored to be asked to join the board last year and happily accepted. There is a buddhist saying that helping one person might not change the world, but it can change the world for one person. I have seen with my own eyes the impact Camp Ubuntu has on changing the world for one person. And that change has spread through a community, historically one of the worst gang, drug and crime ridden communities in the country. These kids come to camp and are given hope, love, a sense of belonging to a group and they come home with the knowledge that people do care about them and they can achieve dreams they never thought possible. We are a small organization but we are growing. This change is palpable. If you go into Watts and ask the community leaders, public officials, police force, they will tell you that HRF has made a difference. I am so proud to be part of this incredible organization and am even more proud of the work we are doing and the future of HRF for it is bright!

I have had the opportunity to witness firsthand the impact that the HRF has had on my students. The first word that comes to mind when I think of this great organization is “Unbelievable”!

It’s truly unbelievable to see how many young lives they touch on a continuous basis. It’s unbelievable to see students from the inner city experience camp for the first time. It’s unbelievable to see how much children grow socially and emotionally during a weekend away at camp. It’s unbelievable to know that the HRF cares enough about my students to maintain contact with them “after” their weekend at camp is over.

It’s also unbelievable to see a group of individuals come together to put the needs of children first. As I watch the impact of one weekend away from the stressful lives that some of my students lead and the positive effect on their self esteem, peer relationships, and academic achievement, all I can say is thank you for all that you do!

The HRF has been passionately supporting our students at Edwin Markham Middle School for over six years. Through their dedication to high quality Camp programs, and their focus on the socio-emotional needs of our students and our community, I have seen the academic and social well-being of our children greatly improve. I look forward to the continuing collaboration with the amazing staff of the Harold Robinson Foundation. Thank you, HRF!

Th Harold Robinson Foundation has changed my life and I’m so lucky to be able to see how many lives it continues to change. HRF is singlehandedly bettering the inner cities of LA.

The Harold Robinson Foundation has changed my life in so many ways. During my first retreat working for HRF I had the most amazing group of kids and saw each of them shine in their own light. I watched the kids bond while learning more about themselves as well as ways to reach their life goals. The Harold Robinson Foundation will always hold a dear place in my heart and I’m so glad I’m a part of an organization that is really invested in the lives these kids.

The Harold Robinson Foundation is truly amazing. Coming from challenging backgrounds makes life a lot harder. It makes breaking through seem so much more daunting. And what Camp Ubuntu does is gives children from difficult backgrounds a glimpse at breaking through. It gives these kids an experience they normally wouldn’t get to have, and helps them visualize a better future.

Most of these children would never have a chance to attend a sleepaway camp at all. But this camp is something magical. It creates the warmest vibe, and is a weekend full of hope and bonding and dream setting. It challenges what they think may be their limitations, and encourages them to overcome fear and dream big. And all of that while having enormous fun. Dancing. Trust exercises. A ropes course that makes you feel like a superhero. And a staff that exudes a genuineness that is infectious. It’s an amazing organization. Kids leave changed for the better, and with memories that will last a lifetime.

It’s why I keep getting involved and volunteering my time. I have been up to camp and seen the way it lights up the kids faces. I have had the honor of hosting the pedal on the pier fundraiser for the last five years as well, and the great vibes translates even to the fundraiser. This is all why I recently also joined the advisory board. It’s truly a privilege to play a small part in helping change these children’s lives. It’s the most pure organization I’ve been part of.

The Harold Robinson Foundation has had and is having a positive effect on literally thousands of kids. The foundation brings kids, teacher/school staff members and parents up for a retreat to an incredibly beautiful camp. It allows all of the people attending to interact in a positive, supportive, healthy and loving environment.

The retreat offers so many different activities. First of all, the kids get to have fun. I know it sounds strange but for many kids attending, this is their first time to truly have fun without having to worry about anything. Their is a ropes course which is a lot of fun and at the same time, allows the kids to overcome fears they might have. Their is a dream wall where the kids set goals for themselves and they have to climb over it; all while being supported with the other kids that are there. Their is sports, yoga, meditation, a writing class where the kids are able to write about their life experiences and release the pain they have inside of themselves and so much more.

The counselors and staff that work with the kids are extraordinary. They give so much of themselves to make sure that every kid has the best experience possible. The kids can feel that the counselors and the support staff are there for them and want to help them in any way possible.

The kids come from underserved areas and things that people like me experience on an every day basis, these kids are experiencing for the very first time. It's really hard to imagine that.

Kids who saw kids as different from them now see the similarities in each other. They are helping each other, supporting each other and being there for one another.

From the police in the local community to principals, teachers/school staff members to parents and relatives, all of them are saying that the Harold Robinson Foundation is having a huge positive impact in their community.

I have been to many retreats and their is not a dry eye at the retreat when it comes time to leave and go back home for all the participants. It might sound sappy but it's true. They might come up to the retreats as individuals but they do go home as one big happy and extended family. It's extraordinary to witness. I am so proud to be a part of this incredible foundation.

The Harold Robinson Foundation is making a tremendously positive impact on many lives. The organization is offering participating kids from the Los Angeles area a safe and impactful opportunity to experience trust and respect in a beautiful and nurturing environment. I have witnessed several kids pledge to change their behavior and path forward as a result of their experiences with the Harold Robinson Foundation. One by one, this organization is making a massive and important difference for a large group of kids.

The Harold Robinson Foundation has carved out a unique safe space of nature for children and young people to experience peace, fun and a sense of community. Having grown up in the mountains with a deep connectivity to nature, there is no doubt the experience of inner city youth at Canyon Creek is profound, beginning with the empowerment and sense of freedom nature provides. The camp founders and staff go above and beyond in every way imaginable, with deep investment and love for each and every camper. As a children's advocate, I've seen the influence and change that public policy can make and the phenomenal support that programs can provide, but there is no greater transformational tool than Love and listening. Which is what they do best!

I have been on the board since the year after the Harold Robinson Foundation (HRF) was formed. Before accepting the board position i wanted to experience a HRF weekend so I headed up to Camp Ubuntu not exactly knowing what to expect. The reaction I had was difficult to explain. Not only did I see kids from the inner city having the time of their lives but at the same time I watched as these same kids developed relationships with their peers and their teachers that were built on trust, teamwork and love. I now realize that sometimes kids need to get away from their community in order to appreciate the values that define them and that define their community. That is in my opinion the magic of Camp Ubuntu. The lessons learned at Camp Ubuntu through the planned activities allowed the kids to develop and define not only who they are as individuals but also help define the role that each child can play within their community upon returning home. At the final campfire, it was obvious that Camp Ubuntu had touched a chord with all those that attended as the emotions experienced were further evidence that Camp Ubuntu had touched the hearts of all that attended in a way that could only be experienced at Camp Ubuntu.

I have been working in youth development for over 5 years. I've worked with at-risk youth and adults in Central Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Baltimore MD, and Watts. Since 2011, I've been heavily involved in the growth and development of my own nonprofit organization called Blessed&Appreciative. I can honestly say that the day I was welcomed into the Harold Robinson Foundation family was a day that altered the course of my life forever.

The Harold Robinson Foundation is the real deal. They don't just "talk the talk", they get down and work hard, extremely hard. They are leading a revolution of young community leaders who are "walking the walk" and leading by example. Their holistic approach to spreading UBUNTU and building community is done so in a way where everyone feels important and like they are a part of the family...from the students they work with to the counselors who work with the students, everyone is important and everyone is valued. As a member of the HRF team, I can say that Jeff and Joyce really care about you as a person. They care about the things that matter, like what you have inside of your heart, over the mistakes you may have made in your past. The empathy and compassion they have inside their hearts is simply inspiring...I hope to one day have a family like the Robinson family.

- Jordan Wright
717-576-6773

HAROLD ROBINSON FOUNDATION'S CAMP UBUNTU moves me to tears!!!!!!! I have been involved with this foundation since the beginning and I have watched it grow into something that is so inspiriring and powerful. I have been able to witness firsthand these children in action and I believe the experience that they are getting up at camp is simply life changing to them. They are experiencing things that most of "our" children take for granted on a daily basis. I have not been more proud and excited to be a part of something that I believe is changing lives right in front of our eyes! I challenge anyone to come sit in on a campfire at the end of a retreat and watch and listen for yourselves to the children, parents and teachers speak from their hearts about their experience up at camp. Jeff, Joyce and David are doing good things. PEACE ,LOVE & CAMP UBUNTU

I am a professional and have been involved in the non-profit world for several years. I am currently the Chair of InsideOUT Writers and I sit on the Board of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition. The Harold Robinson Foundation is by far the most extraordinary organization I have ever witnessed or been a part of. They change peoples lives. Lots of people. They have an incredible impact on their target population, inner city elementary and middle schoolers, their teachers and families. One of the unique qualities is that many of the counselors, mostly in their early 20s, are from these same communities and have faced and overcome hardship. Many were formerly incarcerated, giving them a unique perspective. This is an opportunity for these counselors, those providing the primary services, to "give back", as well as an opportunity to work, be of service and feel empowered by their contribution. The owners, operators, board and community support for this camp is out of this world. Every time there is rewarding, impactful, enriching and fulfilling. The programming is thoughtful, provocative and balances fun with thinking, feeling, team-building and inspiration. The facility is a gorgeous nature refuge. Fresh air, mountains, greenery and seclusion. HRF commits to the same schools, having them back to camp every year, sometimes multiple times per year, follows the kids back to their communities, building a meaningful and lasting connection, with continuity. I am yet to meet someone who does not LOVE HRF and the operators, Jeff, Joyce and David. They have built a new model and should win humanitarian awards. HRF is smart and all heart and builds real community in Los Angeles. HRF is a big warm hug to the world.

Being a board member for the HRF and Camp Ubuntu, I've been able to witness first hand the dedication, energy and loving spirit that goes into reaching out to the youth of our inner city. By creating a safe haven for the kids, HRF and Camp Ubuntu allows children to get in touch with their authentic selves and teaches them the virtues of love, companionship, teamwork, participation and self exploration with their fellow classmates. Whether it's facing the challenge of getting over the DREAM WALL with the help of their group, or taking a risk on a ropes course 50 feet above the ground, or finding ones voice and speaking from the heart at a nighttime campfire, the transformation the kids make from the day they arrive to the day they leave is an inspiration.

I'm the Operations Director for the just keep livin Foundation. We run after-school fitness and wellness programs at 24 Title 1 high schools, many in the Los Angeles area. Over the last four years, the Harold Robinson Foundation has invited about 500 of our students up to Camp Ubuntu. While the ride from South LA only takes about 90 minutes, those buses transport the kids to another world.

I'm not exaggerating when I say that every single student who is lucky enough to attend has the best time. For some, it's the best weekend they'll have all year. For many it's the best experience they'll have in high school. And for still others, going up to Camp Ubuntu-- to swim, hike, play, bond, laugh, decompress, and reflect-- is the best thing that has ever happened to them.

Every year, on the bittersweet bus ride home, we hear the same sincere questions: "Can I live up there?" "Could I work there someday?" "When can we go back?" These earnest inquiries speak to warmth, compassion, and energy of the staff and to the power Ubuntu!

I have worked with children in camps for close to 25 years so I have seen firsthand the impact that even a few days away can have on a child's perspective, attitude, and self-image. The Harold Robinson Foundation's Camp Ubuntu has given countless kids an extraordinary opportunity to experience the independence, teamwork, and confidence that camp fosters. The camp experience has become even more important for today's children to experience as the dynamics of the world they are growing up in are changing so rapidly. Camp Ubuntu is a unifying experience. The goals and outcomes that I have witnessed go way beyond what they can learn in the confines of a classroom - kids come to camp often with no idea of what they will experience, and within a day of being at Camp Ubuntu, they have a more tight-knit bond with friends, family, teachers, and themselves. Tears of joy, and smiles of accomplishment are seen on each and every face as they board the buses to leave camp. Camp Ubuntu staff is devoted, energetic, and committed to making the camp experience powerful for each kid and adult that attends.

I work with a non-profit in Los Angeles, United Friends of the Children, and our mission is to empower current and former foster youth on their journey to self-sufficiency through service-enriched education and housing programs, advocacy, and consistent relationships with a community of people who care. We have been very fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in a camp sponsored by the Harold Robinson Foundation and Camp Felix for several years. This is a very special experience for our youth who look forward to it all year long. The camp experience is something so unique and engaging for our youth and for the most part they do not have any other opportunities like this. But what makes the camp so special - aside from the new and exciting experiences in which they get to participate (including hiking, archery, teambuilding, and ropes course) - is the relationships they build. It is so clear that all staff from the Harold Robinson Foundation deeply care about our youth. They remember individual youth even though they only see them once a year. It does not feel like a one-time thing for our kids. It feels like our youth are with family and that means everything to us!

I am proud to have been in the camp industry for over 30 years and feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment as I have witnessed first hand how the camp experience can change and impact the lives of our youth. Through camp, children get to experience activities that foster confidence, independence, teamwork and a greater sense of self and community. However, in my 30 plus years within the camping community, I have never seen the camp experience have a greater impact on a child than a child who never even thought this opportunity was possible. The campers that attend Camp Ubuntu through the Harold Robinson Foundation are exactly that - kids that probably never even dreamed that such an opportunity existed. But with help from generous donors, a force of volunteers and a community that has embraced the philosophy of Ubuntu, the Harold Robinson Foundation is not only changing lives but changing communities. I couldn't feel more honored and blessed to be a part of this organization and help so many deserving kids who would never otherwise have this opportunity, get to experience what a majority of kids take for granted.

My name is Priscilla Currie and I am the Principal of 92nd Street Elementary School. My school has had the privilege of attending Camp Ubuntu for the past three years. We are so grateful to the Harold Robinson Foundation for selecting and funding this adventure for our school. Camp Ubuntu has been an amazing experience for my students, staff, parents and family. The atmosphere is great, but what really make this trip an unforgettable experience is the people.

This camp helped to encourage and motivate the entire 92nd Street School Community. With the support of the staff our students, staff and parents were able to overcome many obstacles, and they took this same determination back to the school. There were a lot of team building activities that also flowed over to the school. Relationships were developed and parents became more involved and felt more connected to the school. Students were not only excited, but are more determined to overcome obstacle they face. Students have shared that they can hear Camp Mom pushing them to excellence. The nurturing, skills and guidance will help ensure that our students experience life long success.

In addition parents have the opportunity to attend a six week Parent Seminar, also funded by the Harold Robinson Foundation. Parents are learning to take care of themselves, so that can take care of their families. Parents are taught skills to help them develop better relationships with their children and spouse. Lives are changing as a result of these workshops, including mine. These are the types of workshops that help to bridge and change communities.

To the Harold Robinson Foundation and Camp Ubuntu we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the experience, love and adventure. Words along cannot express the gratitude we feel. Again THANK YOU!!!!!!!!

I have been a counselor with Camp Ubuntu/HRF for several years and I can honestly say it has transformed the way I see the world. I've had the privilege to join thousands of kids and chaperons as we are profoundly moved by this experience of camp. It is truly a bottom-up movement, starting with the kids themselves, and the fruits of the actions taken with this foundation have only just started to flourish as the kids, parents, and teachers come home to a better understanding of themselves, of their communities, and to the world at large. Over the next couple decades, as these kids become young adults and enter college and the workforce, I predict you will see a major shift in their environment as they uplift others with the values they were perhaps first introduced to at camp.

On the other side of the socioeconomic spectrum, donors from the more affluent Los Angeles areas and from places all over the world are discovering how they can learn a lot from these children's hardships. To know a child who has been through so much hardship but can still smile so widely at the sight of a friend... this is truly a reflective observation, leading one to inquire into his or her own desires, values, and perceptions. Thus it is not only the underprivileged people and communities that benefit from this foundation but the world at large.

The Harold Robinson foundation is at the cutting edge of culture change within our Los Angeles education system and communities being disproportionally effected by poverty, academic failures and incarceration. HRF founders and staff put their heart and soul into delivering transformational experiences for children who are lost, forgotten, traumatized and who often don't have caring and consistent adults in their life for guidance. The founders, staff and counselors at Camp Ubuntu are that rock. There is absolutely no one in Los Angeles county that provides this service to our children. One is mistaken if they see Camp Ubhntu simply as a summer camp - what really results from Camp Ubuntu is community renewal. Generations of negative outcomes are being replaced by elementary, middle and high school graduations. Children now have positive outlets to develop their passions and enjoy successes. The Harold Robinson Foundation is on the front lines of revolutionary change - in our schools, our communities and our juvenile justice system.

Attending Camp Canyon Creek, has been the most valuable experience my inner city students have participated in. The love, caring, and nurturing brought out the best in these wonderful children. Many of our kids come from very disadvantaged families and would never have a chance to experience anything like this.

From the moment they arrive and are greeted with warm caring people, to the last minute when we drive away, the staff is there cheering the students on. The students learn so much about fishing, sports, teamwork, helpings others, hiking, dancing, rope climbing, surviving in the wild, arts and crafts, cooking, swimming, animals, and how to treat others. All this is done with the idea of "I can, because we can." Everyone is there to help each other. This wonderful positive attitude transfers over to their everyday life. Right now, I am teaching another grade but when the camp "family" sees me, they are so much happier and nicer.

Parents, who attend, are shown ways to encourage their students in a very positive manner. How we relate to each other affects our self-esteem. At school, I see changes in how parents and students interact with each other after they come back from camp. The world is a better place.

When I bring my class up to read with 5th grade reading buddies, the camp students are so kind, patient, thoughtful with their younger peers. It has been said that it takes a whole village to raise a child. Well, Canyon Creek has been that village for Raymond Avenue Students. I truly thank you.

A Raymond Avenue Elementary teacher

The students at Raymond Avenue Elementary School thank the Harold Robinson Foundation (HRF)/ Camp Ubuntu for providing them and their parents a free of cost camping trip filled with educational, social, and sports activities. Students participated in nature walks which provided them with information about geology, plants & trees, animals, and wild fires. The sports activities encouraged and developed their self-esteem, motivated, and taught them about teamwork. The camp trip truly allowed our students to explore their inner strengths and develop courage and drive to meet their personal goals. Parents still brag about the informative and interactive workshops they attended at the camp. They’ve mentioned how they have become better parents by simply talking about their real family issues and receiving feedback from camp personnel and other parents. In fact, HRF did not end the parent workshops after the last day of camp, they arranged for a family counselor to continue the workshops with the parents at the school. Thank you HRF/ Camp Ubuntu for positively touching the lives of our Raymond Ave. Family Members.

Raymond Ave. ES Principal

I have attended "Camp Ubuntu" with our students for 3 years and each time is more phenomenal than the last. You can tell from the time of arrival through the time of departure, that Jeff Robinson and his entire staff are totally committed to making a difference in the lives of our children, parents and community.
The activities the students and parents participate in are truly life-changing opportunities that have had a positive impact on our students and families. Students have learned what is really means to work and support each other as a team and our parents have learned valuable strategies to help support their child/children at home.
Camp Ubuntu has given our students and parents a chance to participate in something that otherwise would not have been possible and for that we are truly grateful. Our students can now see opportunities beyond their own community and because of that, their lives are enriched forever. Many thanks go out again to the Harold Robinson Foundation for giving ALL of us the opportunity to participate in such a phenomenal, uplifting experience.

-Tracy Mack
96th Street Elementary

I work as the case manager at a nonprofit organization that provides creative writing classes to the kids incarcerated in the Los Angeles County juvenile halls and also provides reentry services and support to former students once they are released from custody. I had the privilege of meeting David Moss and Jeff and Joyce Robinson 3 years ago at a fundraising event and was immediately blown away by their work at The Harold Robinson and Camp Ubuntu. Given the nature of my work with currently and formerly incarcerated young people, I have always felt there needed to be more focus on intervention and prevention programs for at-risk youth. When I learned of the mission at The Harold Robinson Foundation, I knew immediately that this was an organization that fully understands the importance of reaching out to young people before they make horrible decisions that could detrimentally affect their futures.

The Harold Robinson Foundation provides a unique opportunity for under-privileged young people in impoverished communities to experience life in camp, something they'd likely not be able to enjoy otherwise. The kids initially enter the camp setting uncertain of what to expect and many have an aura of not wanting to be there since it is an unfamiliar environment for them. However, after 3 day retreats filled with team building exercises and bonding with their peers in various engaging activities that are completely foreign to them, each and every one of the kids leaves with a new sense of respect and appreciation for one another, and memories they hold onto once they return home. I know this because I've volunteered as a camp counselor at Camp Ubuntu and have witnessed the magic of the transformations these kids undergo during their stay at camp. As a grown man, I've always left camp with tears of joy after watching so many kids that have either suffered or have been exposed to neglect or some type of abuse surge with excitement and optimism after working closely with one another and the camp staff. If it's always like that for me, imagine what it must be like for the kids The Harold Robinson Foundation and Camp Ubuntu serves! As much as I would like to try, there are no words adequate enough for me to fully articulate the wonders that take place at Camp Ubuntu other than it's extraordinary and life-changing.

For anyone that is reading this, please do whatever you can to help support The Harold Robinson Foundation and Camp Ubuntu whether it's with donations or with volunteering your time. Since our kids are the future, please do your part to help provide as many kids as possible with memorable and joyful childhood experiences that will also instill discipline and responsibility in them to carry into their adolescence and adulthood. Please consider contributing to The Harold Robinson Foundation.

Thanks!!!

I have been associated with a group of incredible organizers from the days of dreams and ideas. While I was extremely excited about working to move our ideas to reality, I had no idea of what was to come. I have never been associated with such a group of devoted and committed people as my fellow board members. Over the past 5 years the early goals and outreach have expanded many times and the ideas flowing from our board meetings keep coming. Compared to other non-profit boards I serve on, this board is stable, truly puts the needs of the organization and its goals above their own, attendance is near 100%, participation is 100%, and commitment to serving the greater community and more is 110%. This is a rare and highly functional board and organization.
Honored to be associated, Bill Thorington

I first met Jeff and Joyce Robinson when I volunteered with HRF and then my children got to benefit from experiencing Camp Ubuntu themselves! Camp has been such an amazing experience for me and my children. I grew up much like the young people they serve, in environments plagued with negativity and it is so wonderful to see how much time and passion is invested into these children when they come to camp. Every child and adult who steps foot in camp is greeted with love and compassion like I've never seen. It allows the kids to be kids and for us adults to be kids sometimes too. When challenges arise at camp, you never face them alone. Everyone rally's behind that one individual no matter how big or small the feat is. As a single mother, HRF has given my children an opportunity that I would not be able to provide them alone. Camp Ubuntu has taught me how to be a better parent by showing how praise and community goes a long way. And it's given my kids more confidence to face fears and take that leap of faith!

I am a member of the watts community and recent candidate for the California State Assembly. I met HRF,for the first time, almost 3 years ago. During a moment I personally needed inspiration I was invited to the camp where 92nd Street Elementary, from Watts, was visting. I remember feeling loved from the moment I stepped inside the camp, but more importantly HRF was providing kids from my community an experience of their lives. Children were laughing until they burst into tears and held each other with extreme compassion. I remember thinking that that moment was remarkable and how well behaved the kids were.

I was later invited back to learn more about the programs offered by HRF. I stayed an entire weekend this time. I learned that many of the children coming to camp started the weekend off reluctant to get involved and often times untrusting. The well behaved children I mentioned before, i quickly learned didn't start off that way. It was HRF's energetic and caring staff that made it possible for children to be children.

My greatest experience is when I partnered with HRF to host a weekend that was intended to unite all off Watts. This would include law enforcement, students, parents, clergy, activist and the camp. Children laughed and shared stories of hope and relief. Parents became friends with each other and Law enforcement. HRF had created magic. HRF wasn't just a camp in that moment, it represented restoration, family, and future. ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CD51ZwI5Yg0)

Lastly, HRF has demanded that everyone around them step up and do their part to change humanity. I can't wait until this model is shared nationally. For now I am happy that a community with so much need has a great ally. Watts thanks you HRF. The greatest organization fighting daily, in the community and at camp, to change children lives.

I met Jeff and Joyce Robinson approximately four years ago, and have been deeply moved by their compassion, commitment and determination in the evolution of Camp Ubuntu and the Harold Robinson Foundation. As a Director in the non-profit sector, working with young people who have been affected by the criminal justice system, I know first hand the critical importance of establishing positive relationships and instilling hope in our young people growing up in challenging environments.
My teenage son has worked as a junior counselor with Camp Ubuntu, and the experience has stuck with him, affecting his understanding of the importance and gift that comes from creating deep community relationships and support. The smiles kids leave with, the stories of being seen as someone valuable for the first time in their lives, is unparalleled.
Camp Ubuntu is a game changer in this field.

The Harold Robinson Foundation is a fabulous organization. As a teacher at L.A. leadership Academy MS, I have had the privilege to attend the outstanding sports camp at Canyon Creek which HRF has provided for our students. This camp has been a life changing opportunity for our students, many of whom have never attended camp before. The camp staff provided by HRF is the best, introducing our students to high ropes, archery, and astronomy, just to mention a few, all the while focusing on team building and social interaction skills students take away for a lifetime. We are so very thankful to the Harold Robinson Foundation for providing this opportunity for our students!

The Harold Robinson Foundation is an exceptional non-profit! This relatively young organization has done incredible things for our under served community in Los Angeles. Their mission began as sending inner city kids to camp. They discovered that being in the great outdoors and having so many new experiences offers a reset button for many students, teachers and parents. They learn new skills and methods of communication and come away from camp with a new perspective. I love this simple way of helping kids improve their grades and behavior. Their fundraiser, PEDAL ON THE PIER, is the most exciting, fun event and has become one of the premier charity events in Southern California. The founders of the Harold Robinson Foundation are incredibly passionate, hard-working and have unique talents in bringing the kids and families of Watts many of the resources that help improve their lives.

The Harold Robinson Foundation has changed the lives of both the recipients and those that volunteer to contribute. Camp Ubuntu is the most exceptional outlet for kids to safely learn new social and physical skills in a safe, rewarding and enriching environment. The staff and volunteers are encouraging and deliver an experience that influences the participants for the remainer of their lives. This is not a one shot / one off situation --- the kids take away value and skills that will brighten their future.

On the other hand, the teenage volunteers experience giving, gratitude and equality that equally benefits them into their adult lives.

It's truly a one of a kind, amazing organization!

To whom it may concern,
I had the pleasure of visiting camp Ubuntu with 96th Street Elementary. 96th Street Elementary is located in the Watts community of Los Angeles. Prior to my arrival, I read the camp’s mission statement, to summarize: to give boys and girls the opportunity to build confidence and independence, learn teamwork, and develop problem solving skills through diverse sports, and camp programs. Camp Ubuntu did just that! I have witnessed firsthand the difference in students who have gone through the program. They have come back to school with a high level of confidence and have truly become role models of our school. The students and staff of 96th Street Elementary are grateful for the opportunity to visit, and hope to maintain a great relationship with camp Ubuntu.
Sincerely, D. Patrick

The Harold Robinson Foundation has changed the lives of hundreds of boys and girls in South Central Los Angeles. As a teacher in this area, I was not sure what to think four years ago when we were told we were going camping for 3 days and 2 nights at a place called Canyon Creek Sports Complex. A lot of organizations make big promises but often do not follow through. But the Harold Robinson Foundation was as good as their word and better! My students and I spent three days team building, learning leadership skills and finding the importance of compassion and unity. Our second year was even better, as was our third. We have just returned from our forth year at what is now called Camp Ubuntu. This experience could not have a better name. Ubuntu means “I am because we are” and that is what is taught and practiced. Aside from the amazing activities, including football, basketball, tennis, hiking, the ropes course, archery, fishing, night hikes with astronomy classes and the traditional campfire, the food was beyond excellent and the cabins were four star quality. All of this is provided free of charge to 100 forth and fifth grade students along with faculty and parents, each and every year. As a teacher, I then take this powerful experience and replicate it in the classroom all year long to encourage students to be free thinkers, to learn to make good choices, to do the right thing and to be a team, both in and out of the classroom. We are so blessed that the Harold Robinson Foundation has chosen Watts to be the focus of their philanthropy. What an amazing change they have brought about, not only in the lives of students and their parents, but to the faculty members that have been fortunate enough to be along for the ride. Anyone supporting this organization can be assured that their contributions are truly impacting the lives of others directly.

The Harold Robinson Foundation is truly a one of kind nonprofit. They have touched the lives of our students here at La Leadership Academy for the past 3 years. They have done this by providing our students with an escape from city life with a funded sports camping trip. For many of our students its the first time they have ever seen or spent time in the wilderness. They truly have left lasting memories for all of our students and staff as well.

The Harold Robinson Foundation is beyond amazing! They have provided our students a three-day camping experience for the past three years that our students would never have an opportunity to experience without their generosity. We are a small K-12 charter school in Lincoln Heights with limited resources as more than 90% of our students qualify for free or reduced lunch. Los Angeles Leadership Academy is eternally grateful for their support and our students return every year asking if they can go again!

We are extremely thankful that the "Harold Robinson Foundation" provided a very generous contribution to support our students at 96th Street Elementary. My staff and I are extremely grateful for this wonderful opportunity that they have afforded our students of attending "Camp Ubuntu".

Through their generosity our 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students have had an experience of a lifetime since we first participated 3 years ago. Their support is truly appreciated by those who need it most, our students. My only regret is that I have not been able to stay the whole time.

During my stay, I've had the opportunity to witness our students having fun without the worries of their daily lives. I've been very impressed with the program and the staff. The staff is very enthusiastic, they keep the children interested and excited about the activities by engaging them in all aspects. However, what impressed me the most was their love and affection for what they do. It is obvious that they truly care about providing an experience that will be embedded in the minds of our students for a long time. They are great at what they do, and that is making children smile!

Thank you for funding "Camp Ubuntu" program. This was a rare and unexpected gift that will be treasure for a lifetime. Your organization is creating a wonderful legacy by your guidance, caring, and selfless giving. It is truly a worthwhile investment in the lives of our inner city children.

Please accept our warmest heartfelt thanks!

Sincerely,
Luis Heckmüller
Principal
96th Street Elementary School

I cannot extend enough gratitude to the Harold Robinson Foundation. It is because of their generosity, strength, and love that my students, parents, staff and I were given the opportunity to embrace UBUNTU. We will forever be different people because of the powerful message taught to us during our time at camp. Respect for self and others, self-control, teamwork, communication, and above all the confidence to excel, are just some of the qualities taken away from our weekend with the most amazing group of people in the world. Thanks again! Truly, you are all gifts from above.
~I Am Because We Are~ UBUNTU FOREVER~
Marie Sa Michinard –Instructional Specialist- LAUSD

I don't think that there are enough superlatives or positive adjectives to describe HRF & camp. To say that this magical camp and foundation have changed lives would be an understatement….They HAVE changed lives, but more importantly, they have SAVED lives and the trajectory OF those lives. I have witnessed first hand the power of what Jeff, Joyce and the rest of the selfless team at HRF have done to turn around the lives of kids who saw no future for themselves…or a future none of us would want. Through love, support, mentorship and instilling a belief in self , the HRF & Camp have given hope where there was none, and created a safe environment for trusting not only in others …but in themselves.

Julianne Phillips & Marc Gurvitz