AJ stands for Andrew Jackson, our 7th president. His reputation for toughness earned him the nickname "Old Hickory." A hero of the War of 1812, Jackson has appeared on the $20 bill since 1928.

Put the 

FUN! in 

fundraising.

Who's got the bucks?

Look into getting a scholarship or a partial scholarship to help pay for a learning opportunity. Look for $$ Help

Sometimes the camp itself offers scholarships.

Groups related to the type of camp you are going to may also give scholarships:

• Your school's band booster organization may give scholarships for students to attend music camp.
• Your church may give scholarships for a church-related camp.

It never hurts to ask about receiving a scholarship.

If you feel nervous about asking a group about getting a scholarship in person, communicate with them via the US mail. Close

If you belong to an established group (such as a scout troop, church group, or sports team) that has a lot of students going to the same camp, try a fund raiser. 

Ask your parents how much they're willing to contribute for camp. Let them Know You're Serious

It is a good idea to look into scholarships and fundraising first because then your parents know that you are serious about wanting to go to camp.

If you have money you got from holidays and birthdays consider applying some of it towards camp.

Your parents will appreciate that you are trying to save them money. 

CloseSuppose you offer to give something up if you can use the savings for camp.  (Are you willing to downgrade your super-deluxe cable television package to basic for the summer?)

Earn the rest

When you still need money after trying the things listed above, and the couch cushions have only turned up $1.34 plus some wrappers, you need to earn the rest.

• Ask around to see if anyone is willing to pay you for doing the classic odd jobs, such as yard work or cleaning.
• Your parents may also have extra jobs that they would be happy to pay you for doing.
• If you're crafty, ask your friends and family if they would buy some of your artwork.
• Ask friends for creative ways to save and earn money.

Creative Ways to Earn and Save $$

Money Tight? is an AJ's story that talks about creative ways to earn and save your family money.

Look into applying for a position on AJ's Super Youth Team. I did, and will earn $440 just about the same time you read this!

I'm going to apply some of what I earn from my Super Youth Team position to my summer adventures.

Close

I've even started a separate savings account for camp funds.CloseTake a chance

Look ma—no head!

Don't be afraid to try new things. At camp I learned how to canoe and then our cabin went on a canoe trip.

Not everyone wanted to go on the canoe trip, but we all went and it was a great experience.

Camp is an awesome way to fill your summer and the memories will keep you laughing all year!

I've met fun people at camp and through out the year we write to each other in letters, e-mails, or instant messaging. By staying in touch, the camp experience doesn't end when we sign out at the end of our session.

Look into summer opportunities and find out the meaning of “it's a camp thing!” Then get packing!

Midwest Community FCU What makes credit unions so great? Members like you. Every dollar you invest in your credit union earns you money while other members borrow it. When you're ready for a loan, other members' savings will be there to help you out at the lowest possible cost.