Frank introduced Ari Wilder, Executive Director  of Friends of Camp Colton.  The non-profit was established in 2001 to support the educational mission and sustainability of Camp Colton.  Built by Dick and Jean Wilson, Camp Colton was originally operated as a summer camp for Tucson inner city boys, before they donated the property and buildings to the Flagstaff Unified School District in 1976.  They will be celebrating 50 years in 2020! 
 
The Camp currently operates between May and June, and August through October, and serves approximately 750 6th graders each year.  Spending 4 days and 3 nights at the Camp, students learn about the natural environment, as well as enjoy outdoor experiences.  Since they now serve so many more than originally built for, their goal is to expand the number of cabins and bathrooms, build a new lodge, and have dedicated, permanent astronomy space.  Their annual fundraiser, Kahtoola Uphill Race, is scheduled for February 8.  Plenty of opportunity for volunteers, and still time to get your team of racers together.