San Francisco Reviews Successful 2025 Summer Camp Programs Led by Anne Marie Donnelly

In the heart of San Francisco's bustling city hall, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement as Anne Marie Donnelly, the assistant superintendent for recreation and community services, presented a vibrant recap of the city's summer camp programs. With a warm welcome to the commissioners, she shared the success of the 2025 summer camps, which have become a cornerstone of community engagement for families across the city.

Donnelly highlighted that the Recreation and Park Department (RPD) is the largest provider of summer day camps in San Francisco, offering 51 camps at 31 different sites. This summer alone, nearly 9,500 enrollments were recorded, with approximately 5,000 individual children participating in various activities. Among these, 1,700 kids learned to swim, a vital skill that the city emphasizes through its summer learn-to-swim programs.

The camps catered to diverse interests, featuring unique offerings such as a girls' sports camp at Mission Rec Center, which aimed to empower young girls through sports. Another standout was the Betty Ann Ong camp, where children engaged in not only sports and arts but also meditation and journaling, promoting self-reflection and mindfulness. Camp Tsukahika, based out of Lake Merced, provided adventurous outdoor experiences, including hiking and surfing, allowing children to connect with nature.

Donnelly also addressed the financial accessibility of these programs, revealing that nearly $1.2 million in scholarships were awarded, with 1,200 children benefiting from financial assistance. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that all families, regardless of income, can participate in enriching summer activities.

Feedback from parents was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the organization and quality of the camps. Parents noted the engaging activities and the friendly, accommodating staff, which contributed to a memorable experience for their children.

As the meeting concluded, the sense of accomplishment was palpable. The success of the summer camps not only reflects the hard work of the RPD staff but also underscores the city's dedication to fostering community connections and providing enriching experiences for its youth. With plans already in motion for future programs, the city looks forward to another successful summer ahead.