Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Camper Profile?

Applicant: 11-17 years of age with the potential to transform in a positive manner.

Gender: Female

Character Qualities: Open to positive cultural experiences and is eager to develop life-enhancing skills.

The selection process for prospective campers is on a first-come, first-serve basis if the above criterion is met.

NOTE: Although Camp Butterfly would like to accommodate the cultural needs of all girls; this program is specifically designed to address the emotional and cultural needs of girls of African descent. All girls are welcome to participate in our program.

Are scholarships available?

Yes. Typically we have a limited number of scholarships available on a first-come, first-serve basis. We encourage participants to seek individual sponsorship from individuals, schools, churches, civic and social organizations.

Since you are based in Chicago, do local girls have first preference?

No. Camp Butterfly is designed to help girls gain new experiences and life perspectives by giving them an opportunity to make new friends from different parts of the country. We typically recruit local girls as individuals rather than groups coming from the same school or organization. This gives all participants the same opportunity to bond and interact with at least one new friend.

To ensure a diverse group, no more than 50 percent of the participants for each session are accepted from the metro Chicago area. The other 50 percent come from other parts of the country.

How are girls from out-of-state chosen?

Girls from across the country are selected on a first-come, first-serve basis. To date, we have served girls from the following states and countries: Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Indiana, Texas, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, California, Florida, Georgia, Missouri, Maryland, New York and Ghana West Africa.

How do you recruit your campers?

Our greatest source of recruitment has been word of mouth and support of women who have read “Project Butterfly: Supporting Young Women and Girls Through the Transitions of Life,” by Niambi Jaha-Echols. Our challenge has not been recruiting girls, but rather having the capability to accommodate all of the girls who inquire. Each year, we have had a waiting list of potential campers.