Circle Program

Circle Program was founded in 1993 by the trustees and camp director of Camp Onaway, a camp for girls on Newfound Lake in Hebron, New Hampshire. They wanted to create a summer camp program for socially and economically disadvantaged New Hampshire girls, but recognized the fact that just a few weeks at camp might not be enough to make a sustainable difference in the lives of the girls. They modeled Circle Program after the Mayhew Program for boys and combined residential summer camp with year-round, one-on-one mentoring. Circle began as a "pilot program" with twenty-two girls. Currently, over eighty girls and teens are enrolled and they come from thirty-two towns throughout the Lakes Region. Circle Program is the only program of its kind serving girls in New Hampshire. It is also one of the only programs in the country that combines camp and mentoring, serving rural girls. The Circle Office consists of 6 dedicated staff who come from diverse backgrounds. We also have a large number of loyal board members and trustees.

Circle Program strives to enrich and empower the lives of at risk girls in the Lakes Region area. We do so through summer camp, community connection, and our mentorship program. Girls who are referred to Circle Program have great potential, but lack the opportunities and resources to develop that potential. Circle offers girls a positive and comprehensive program designed to help them thrive. And the girls do thrive because of the experiences they have, the skills they learn, the individual connections they make, and the long-lasting friendships they keep for life! Girls are initially enrolled into Circle Program when entering their 5th or 6th grade year, and are referred by teachers, guidance counselors, social service agencies, or family members. Upon entering the program, each girl is paired with a one - on - one woman mentor who acts as a positive role model and strong support system in their life. Each girl participates in Circle Camp, where they have the ability to make connections and friendships with other Circle Participants, as well as learn valuable skills that encourage healthy choices and decision making. Our Camp curriculum is STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) based. The Circle Program Values are as followed: SUPPORT: Providing a safe and caring environment for young women to explore their strengths and possibilities, and to build confidence and a positive self-image. PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY: Encouraging young women to live healthy lives by establishing a connection with the natural world and promoting healthy decisions. MENTORSHIP: Creating opportunities for young women to build long-lasting networks through trusted mentoring relationships and empowering connections with other young women. INTEGRITY: Sustaining a passionate organization that celebrates its historical origins and embraces diversity, inclusion, transparency, and community connection. ACCEPTANCE: We support all of our Circle participants, unconditionally, however they may wish to express or identify.