Climbing a world class mountain without the proper equipment is a guaranteed invitation for disaster. Even with the right tools the journey is not easy. The start of every climb begins with the establishment of a base camp...a place that marks the beginning of the climb...where all the supplies are kept to sustain them. This is the assignment that we have been given at Base Camp Urban Outreach...to equip urban youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop autonomy and make positive life choices through a caring community of businesses, churches and individual mentors. Over our 27 year history, Base Camp has been there to equip thousands of young people as they climb the mountain of life. We provide a foundation of hope, encouragement, and positive role modeling through individualized after school tutoring, literacy education, sports, art, STEM education, and spiritual discipleship. Not only are our young people's minds and spirits fed daily, but their bodies are fed as well by the provision of a hot, healthy meal served to them each evening, at absolutely no cost to them or their parents. Kelly Ellis serves as the executive director of Base Camp. She is co-founder of the organization and has 27 years of experience working in nonprofit management, as well as investment in the lives of inner-city youth. Who are we? We are a community of people who want to reach out to great kids growing up in rough neighborhoods and give them a chance to rise up and thrive in a chaotic world.