R.M. Pyles Boys Camp would not be able to deliver its mission without the support of so many generous individuals and companies in Southern California. One such Foundation that is instrumental to our success is the Stanley W. Ekstrom Foundation.
View of the stars during a sunset, summer 2019
Recently, the Stanley W. Ekstrom Foundation generously donated $15,000 to benefit the boys served by R.M. Pyles Boys Camp. Adam Bell, Executive Director of R.M. Pyles Boys Camp said, “We are extremely grateful for the Stanley W. Ekstrom Foundation’s donation, which will play a significant role in transforming the lives of our campers, their families, and their communities. With this donation, we will be able to continue providing life-changing experiences to boys and young men from under-resourced communities throughout Southern California.”
The multi-year wilderness camp experience, located in the Sequoia National Forest, is a leadership program that teaches at-risk youth the values of hard work, education, respect for the environment, themselves, and each other, and making good life choices (such as staying in school, avoiding gangs and drugs). Boys participate in the program at no cost. The camp is funded entirely by charitable donations.
Since the camp’s inception in 1949, R.M. Pyles Boys Camp has served more than 28,000 California boys. Each camper has heart-wrenching stories of their struggles, such as living in neighborhoods with gang violence, attending low performing schools, and being exposed to substance abuse and domestic violence. Former campers have gone on to achieve numerous successes including becoming the first college graduate in their families, serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, and returning to work at the camp as counselors.
Michael Stegeman, Former Camper
Former camper, Michael Stegeman, recently said “My counselors showed me the ways to become a man with a strong character of integrity and perseverance. I realized the world did not revolve around me…They had hopes we would achieve something great. Since then my worldview has changed and I am motivated to achieve greatness, I know I will.” Mr Stegeman is currently enrolled at the United States Naval Academy.
About the Stanley W. Ekstrom Foundation
From http://swefoundation.org/
SOCIAL WELFARE
Following The Example Of His Parents, Stan Was A Major Contributor To A Number Of Organizations That Promote Social Welfare. He Cofounded The Family Violence Project Of Orange County That Protects At-Risk-Children. He Also Funded A Number Of Organizations That Provide Services For The Elderly.
EDUCATION
Stan Was A Great Believer In Improving the Influence Of Education. He Sponsored Deserving Candidates In Their Pursuit Of Higher Education. For Over 20 Years He Funded The Science, Technology, Engineering And Math (STEM) Programs In Local High Schools.
ANIMAL WELFARE
Throughout His Life Stan Was A Great Lover Of Animals. Cardinal’s Corporate Headquarters Is Adjacent To A Recreational Area And He Made Sure That He Found Homes For The Many Animals Abandoned There. He Was An Advocate For The Humane And Ethical Treatment Of Animals.
MILITARY SERVICE
Stan’s Respect For Veteran Affairs Stemmed From The Fact That His Father, Marvin, Had Served In The U.S. Army During World War II. Many Of The Men Who Worked For Marvin And Established Cardinal Were Fellow Veterans. Stan Was Deeply Committed To Supporting The Veterans Of The Local VFW, VFW Post 10218.