Every summer, Moorelands Kids opens the doors of possibility to vulnerable children/ youth who might otherwise never have the chance to experience camp. Moorelands Camp has been in action since 1917, creating lasting memories and measurable impact for disadvantaged children and youth.
Through our Send a Kid to Camp (SAK) campaign, we provide transformative experiences in nature, helping young people build confidence, leadership skills, and friendships that last a lifetime.
But what does that impact really look like? We sat down with Robin Ashford, a dedicated Moorelands Kids board member, to learn more about why he passionately champions the SAK campaign – and how his own childhood camp experience helped shape the person he is today.
A PERSONAL CONNECTION TO CAMP
“When I was around 9 or 10,” Robin recalls, “I had the opportunity to attend a subsidized camp through my school. I didn’t come from a privileged background, so attending camps wasn’t something that me or my friends were used to.”
That camp – tucked away in the forests of Kent, England – opened up a new world for him. “I grew up in a pretty big town, so spending the days surrounded by trees and nature, running through the woods… it was different and took me outside of my comfort zone.”
It wasn’t just the activities that made a lasting impression on him; it was the experience of being pushed beyond what was familiar. “You’re thrown into a situation that’s very different from your everyday life, and you have to figure out how to operate in that space. That’s something you carry into your adult life, into work, leadership, and relationships.”
WHY ROBIN SUPPORTS THE SAK CAMPAIGN
Robin’s journey from a young camper in the UK to a seasoned professional and board member at Moorelands Kids is deeply influenced by that early exposure to camp.
“That’s why I got involved with Moorelands,” he explains. “Because I know how powerful these kinds of opportunities can be. They gave me the confidence to embrace the idea of doing something different, which helped shape who I became.” Now, he’s committed to giving back using his experience and skills to ensure other kids can benefit in the same way. “I’m fortunate now to be in a position where I have the opportunity to help and give back; I believe it’s the right thing to do.”
THE REAL IMPACT OF YOUR SUPPORT
Robin emphasizes how vital funding from the SAK campaign is to the success of Moorelands Camp.
“Without donations, we simply can’t help as many kids. It’s that simple. Every dollar makes a difference—whether it’s a one-time gift or a small monthly donation.”
And in today’s economic climate, Robin is quick to acknowledge that giving isn’t always easy. “We’re hugely grateful to our donors. We know it’s a challenging time financially for many people. Whatever anyone is able to give truly changes lives.”
GROWTH, LEADERSHIP, AND CAMP MAGIC
Last summer, Robin visited Moorelands Camp in person, and the experience left a lasting impression.
“I saw kids climbing the big wooden pole,” he remembers. “You could see the fear the first time they tried it. But by the third or fourth time? They were racing to the top with huge smiles. That’s what growth looks like.”
He points out that these experiences build real-world leadership skills: resilience, problem-solving, courage, and confidence.
“They’re learning to try new things, to fail and try again, and to push through fear. That’s what shapes future leaders.”
BUILDING A MORE EQUITABLE FUTURE
For Robin, Moorelands Kids is about more than just summer fun. It’s about creating a more inclusive and equitable Canada.
“When we talk about diversity, we often focus on race or gender. But socioeconomic diversity is also important. Not every child has the same access to opportunity. Programs like Moorelands help level the playing field. And that benefits everyone. It creates better workplaces, better communities, and ultimately, a better country.”
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
When asked what he would say to someone considering donating for the first time, Robin replies with honesty and heart.
“Donating is personal. But I’d ask people to look at the bigger picture—this isn’t just about a week at camp. It’s about giving a kid a chance to grow, to lead, to see a future they may not have thought possible.”
And there are many ways to support—whether through a financial gift or simply spreading the word on social media.
“If you can’t give, share. Help raise awareness. Every voice helps.”
THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE MOORELANDS CAMP
Robin smiles, then answers without hesitation:
SUPPORT THE SAK CAMPAIGN TODAY
“Visiting the camp really brought it to life for me,” Robin says. “You can read about it. You can talk about it on Zoom or Teams calls. But when you see it in person, when you feel the energy, it’s inspiring.”
He hopes more people will take the opportunity to experience the magic of Moorelands Camp.
“It’s more than a camp. It’s a place where kids find out who they are—and who they can become.”
You can help transform a child’s life through the Send a Kid to Camp campaign.
