Youth Drop-In Center
2026 Summer Day Camp Program at the Bethel Youth Drop-In Center
Center Program overview: Bethel Youth Drop-In Center celebrates 35 years of providing a safe place for kids in the neighborhood of Bethel Lutheran Church in North Portland. The Center, a partnership between the congregation and neighborhood families, offers an opportunity for children to learn, play, make friends and explore the community. While housed at a church, the program is secular, offers no religious instruction, and welcomes children of all backgrounds.
Program dates: June 29 through August 7, MTWTF, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Ages served: Children entering first through sixth grades in Fall 2026
Registration: Family registration for Summer 2026 is now closed. Email Director Keymora Goldsby at ydic@bethelpdx.org with questions.
Cost & content: Thanks to our Drop-In partners, this program of STEM projects, games, reading, crafts, city excursions, and two meals daily is available for only $225 per week for the first child and is discounted for additional children. Families needing assistance may confer with the Director to enroll children on a sliding scale ($225 to $30).
Donations and Camp Fees: To donate to our Summer Day Camp Program or to pay camp fees, please use the QR Code. You may also pay @BethelLutheran-Church code #6064. Please note purpose of your payment.
Located at Bethel Lutheran Church
Address
5658 N Denver Ave
Portland, OR 97217
Contact
Camp Phone: 971-230-4907
Bethel Phone: 503-285-4919
Email: ydic@bethelpdx.org
Welcome Our Director, Keymora!
Hello everyone!
My name is Keymora Goldsby, and I am beyond excited to be returning as Director for this year’s Summer Day Camp! This summer marks my fourth official year working here, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to continue supporting and growing with this amazing community. From helping campers find their voice to creating safe and memorable experiences, being part of this program has been both meaningful and inspiring.
What makes this journey even more special is that I was once a camper here myself. I grew up attending this very camp, and it played a huge role in shaping the person I am today. To now be in a leadership position helping guide the same program that once guided me is an absolute honor. I’m passionate about making sure every young person who walks through these doors feels seen, supported, and empowered to be their best self. I’m looking forward to an incredible summer filled with fun, growth, sports, science and new friends.
Family Camp Applications
Family applications are currently closed.
Camp Staff Recruitment
All camp staff positions have been fill for summer 2026.
Summer Day-Camp Schedule
Open your calendars and add these dates related to our 2026 Summer Day Camp!
Feb 1: Camp staff applications open
Mar 1: Family applications open
May 15: Tentative camper attendance schedules due to Bethel
Jun 9: Last regular class day for Portland Public Schools
Jun 10-12: Possible snow days for PPS
Jun 10: Final camper attendance schedules due to Bethel
Jun 22-26: Staff training week
Jun 29: Summer Day Camp opens
Jul 3: Holiday honoring the Fourth of July—camp is closed
Aug 7: Last day of the 2026 Summer Day Camp
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