History of New Hope
- 1992 - Camp New Hope begins when Oklahoma Episcopalians visiting prisons realize the number one concern of those in prison is the children they have left behind. A handful of volunteers begin a camp for children aged 8-12 who have a parent in prison. The camp runs for three days and serves half a dozen children.
- 1994 - Camp New Hope expands to a residential 6-day summer camp that serves 20 campers.
- 1997 - Camp New Hope grows to 40 campers.
- 2000 - A second camp (Camp Start) is added for 13- to 15-year-olds who have graduated from Camp New Hope. Campers are encouraged to become counselors-in-training at Camp New Hope when they turn 16 years old.
- 2002 - The first camper-turned-counselor-in-training serves on staff.
- 2003 - A new year-round program starts in Tulsa serving those who have been through New Hope's camping program.
- 2004 - Four more former campers train to become counselors-in-training.
- 2005 - The director position is changed from a volunteer position to a half-time paid position. A girls' weekend retreat takes place in October. New Hope hosts a Christmas Party in conjunction with Volunteers of America for 75 children who have a parent in prison.
- 2006 - Two new camps are added: a four-day canoeing camp and a camp for 12- and 13-year-old children. A boys' retreat is held. Horseback riding retreats are implemented for boys and girls. Christmas parties with gifts for almost 200 children are held in Tulsa and OKC.
- 2007 - New Hope becomes a non-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) status. Director’s position becomes full-time. Girls Circle Program begins.
- 2009 - Four days of after-school programs are implemented. 134 campers attend a week of camp.
- 2010 - Eight 16- and 17-year-old former campers volunteer to serve as counselors-in-training at Camp New Hope.
