Written By: Jacqueline Arellano
Published by: Country Zest & Style from Country ZEST & Style Autumn 2026 Edition
For many children, summer is a season of fun and relaxation. At Windy Hill, it is a time to connect families with opportunities that help children learn, discover new interests, build confidence, and create lasting memories through educational scholarships and community partnerships.
Education has always been a cornerstone of Windy Hill’s mission. Through the Horizon Scholarship Fund, the Nest to Wings Scholarship Program, and summer camp scholarships, the Foundation has invested more than $490,000 in educational initiatives that support residents of all ages —from early childhood education to college, workforce training, and continuing education.
Learning continues beyond the classroom. Each summer, Windy Hill helps families access affordable and enriching summer camp experiences through scholarships and community partnerships. This year, Windy Hill provided six scholarships to Wakefield School’s Summer Camp Program, four enrollments in The Plains Community League’s Summer Camp, one scholarship to The Hill School, and one scholarship to Piedmont Child Care Center. Families also had access to additional opportunities through partnerships with the YMCA and Fauquier Community Child Care.
Through these partnerships, children explored science, dance, art, outdoor adventures, swimming and leadership while creating friendships and building confidence. One of those children is Aurora, who attended The Plains Community League’s (“TPCL”) Summer Camp throughout the month of June. For Aurora, camp was filled with new friendships, exciting adventures, and accomplishments she will remember.
“One of my favorite parts of camp was meeting new friends! Organizing fashion shows with them was so fun! I loved when we went to a farm and met a painter. She taught us to express ourselves through art. We also ate some really good food at camp; my favorite was the quesadillas. Going to the pool was amazing. The counselors helped me learn how to swim. I learned that if I really want to do something and I keep trying my best, I can do anything!”
For Aurora’s mother, Veronica, the experience meant much more than simply keeping her daughter active over the summer.
“I think this camp is great for kids in our community. It keeps them busy and learning. This has been an incredible experience. She absolutely loves Ms. Erica and the counselors. She cannot wait to go again next year.”
Aurora’s experience reflects the mission of TPCL, who’s free eight-week summer camp gives children the opportunity to learn, explore and grow through arts and crafts, outdoor activities, educational experiences, swimming, and fieldtrips. Campers also receive daily snacks and lunches thanks to the generosity of local restaurants, organizations, and community members.
TPCL, Executive Director Erica Young, says the program is a community effort.
“TPCL is able to provide a full-day summer camp program throughout June and July only because of the incredible generosity and dedication of these organizations, foundations, families, and volunteers. It is an honor for me to help and provide a fun and memorable summer for so many children.”
For the second consecutive year, Wakefield School generously provided six full scholarships for its 2026 Summer Camp Program, giving Windy Hill children access to camps including Broadway & Hip-Hop Dance Camp, STEAM Lab Camp, Disney Adventure Camp, and Out & About Field Trip Camp.
Bonnie Piper, Windy Hill Foundation Board Member and Director of Strategic Communications at Wakefield School, says the partnership reflects Wakefield’s belief that education extends beyond the classroom.
“Wakefield’s commitment to community partnership is rooted in the belief that education extends beyond the classroom. Providing camp scholarships is one meaningful way Wakefield can help remove barriers, build connection, and invest in the growth and well-being of children in our community.”
Piper says summer enrichment gives children opportunities to stay curious, build confidence, develop friendships, and explore new interests while ensuring more families have access to meaningful learning experiences.
Whether children are learning to swim, exploring science, expressing themselves through art, performing on stage, or making new friends, these experiences help build confidence and create lasting memories. Through partnerships with The Plains Community League, Wakefield School, The Hill School, Piedmont Child Care Center, Fauquier Community Child Care, and the YMCA, Windy Hill Foundation is expanding access to opportunities that help local children learn, grow, and thrive. Every scholarship represents more than financial assistance—it opens doors for children, supports families, and strengthens the community.
