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The National Military Family Association, NMFA, has run Operation Purple Camp as a program specifically for military children since 2004. In 2020, Operation Purple went virtual, with the return of in-person camps in 2022. In 2023, NMFA has introduced Operation Purple Summer Challenge.
Like the Operation Purple Camp at home, Operation Purple Summer Challenge can be completed by military families that are actively moving across the country, world, or just down the street. The program is a self-paced experience connecting military kids wherever they are. Throughout the summer, weekly challenges are announced. Every Wednesday, a “Global Gathering” online occurs so the children can share what they have done throughout the week so far.
Every military-connected kid registered will get a spot for Operation Purple Summer Challenge. There are three age groups – Explorers are Pre-K through Grade 2, Adventurers for Grade 3-8, and Family for those of all ages. The only needed items are a device to connect to the internet for the global gathering and to access the weekly activity emails, and writing tools and paper.
Registration is open now! Register by clicking here. Military kids that applied to in person camps can also apply to to Operation Purple Summer Challenge. The program runs from June 7, 2023 to July 26, 2023 with an end-of-summer meet up on August 23, 2023.
The eight week of challenges have been announced:
Week 1: Rep Your Branch
Week 2: Around the World
Week 3: Air, Land, and Sea
Week 4: Pajamarama
Week 5: Holiday Party
Week 6: Storyville
Week 7: Into the Future
Week 8: Transformers
This is the answer to Operation Purple Camp at Home that was held for two years. These camps were week-long camps with daily activities, divided by ages. This was a great way for kids to connect in with kids their ages, and enjoy a camp while they were moving or just to enjoy a “vacation” at home. While it is not known if the Operation Purple Summer Challenge will continue in following years, it is certainly a hope that it continues to provide flexible opportunities for military kids. And the family addition to this program provides families an opportunity to plug and enjoy the challenge together.
Whether you are moving or not, this program is a great program for military kids and families alike. Will you be participating this year?
