Cincinnati Architectural Mentoring Program Brings Back Summer Program for 2022

The Cincinnati Architectural Mentoring Program (C.A.M.P.) is excited to announce that they are bringing back their in-person Summer CAMP for the summer of 2022! Throughout this week-long program beginning July 10th, students entering the 7th and 8th grades in the fall will be exposed to the world of architecture. The Summer CAMP program will be hosted at University of Cincinnati’s Design, Architecture, Art and Planning facility, where students will explore UC’s campus and beyond. This marks the second time that CAMP will offer this program since COVID forced things to come to a halt in 2020.

During Summer CAMP, students will be introduced to the discipline of architecture, learn about influential architects of color, and be given instruction in drawing and design through presentations and hands-on group projects. They will also have the opportunity to work alongside architectural educators and professionals, allowing them to gain first-hand knowledge of working in the fields of architecture, urban planning, and design.  At the conclusion of the week, students will host an exhibit where they will welcome family and friends to display their final projects and creations.

This year, Summer CAMP is partnering with Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens to give students the opportunity to apply their newly acquired skills in a real-world environment.  Activities Beyond the Classroom is proud to serve as fiscal sponsor for Summer CAMP, and is excited about their collaborative efforts with many outstanding local architectural organizations making this summer camp experience possible for local area youth.

A Week of Immersive and Engaging Activities

This week-long Summer CAMP kicks off on Sunday, July 10th, with an online orientation for both students and their parents. For the remainder of the week, students will meet at the UC, where they will be introduced to various design and building techniques.

A few activities during the week include:

  • Habitat Design – Students will have the opportunity to visit the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens to learn about animals that live at the zoo and how humans can help their environment. Campers will work together and participate in Animal Encounters and explore different parts of the zoo for inspiration on design projects.  
  • 100+1 Exercise – A “mystery box” style challenge where students will be tasked to create structures using multiples of common household items.
  • Architects of Color – students will be introduced to the many talented architects of color that have made significant contributions to local, national, and international buildings and structures.
  • Perspective Drawing & Presentation – Students will learn to apply various perspectives to present their ideas to “clients” and various stakeholders.

At the end of the week on July 16th, students will present their work to family, friends, and event attendees during the project exhibit. The CAMP will conclude with a graduation ceremony for campers to celebrate their week-long journey and accomplishments.  

About the Cincinnati Architectural Mentoring Program

Founded in 2005, the Cincinnati Architectural Mentoring Program (C.A.M.P.) is a volunteer organization created with the mission to diversify the field of architecture, by opening doors for children who normally might not think of it as a career option. C.A.M.P. was developed by a collaborative effort of a diverse group of five architectural professionals who all shared this common goal. These partners include the University of Cincinnati’s DAAP School of Architecture and Interior Design (SAID), the American Institute of Architects, and the National Organization of Minority Architects.  

C.A.M.P.’s immersive summer camp experience helps bring the world of design to life for students in the Cincinnati-area. The summer program provides building blocks for students to explore their creativity and passions while exploring this exciting new career path.

How to Apply to Summer CAMP

Applications are open now through May 1st on C.A.M.P.’s website at www.cincyarchcamp.org. Summer CAMP tuition is $75 per camper. Tuition assistance is available for students in need. For questions about tuition assistance or Summer CAMP, contact the Cincinnati Architectural Mentoring Program at info@cincyarchcamp.org. Spots are limited so make sure to get your applications in early.