The #GreatCampGive Starts In

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Sixty-Nine Years of Memories

For nearly seven decades, Camp Hanover has been a beacon of sunny summer camp experiences. These years have been filled with laughter, learning, and unforgettable memories that have shaped the lives of countless individuals. Campers have found friendship, discovered their strengths, and developed a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

 

Why Give

The 2026 #GreatCampGive is not just a celebration of the past but also an invitation to be part of the exciting journey ahead. Whether you’re a former camper, a staff member, a friend, or a supporter, your involvement helps ensure that Camp Hanover remains a place where everyone can feel loved and accepted.

Together, let’s honor the past and embrace the future, continuing to make Camp Hanover a place where everyone belongs.

DONATE

Camp Hanover's Impact Extends Across the U.S.

#GreatCampGive donors are not just in Virginia. Last year, we’ve received donations from 21 states!

 

 

 

#GreatCampGive Has Raised Over $600,000

The #GreatCampGive has become the biggest generosity event of the year for Camp Hanover. Friends and fans who call this place “home” have given more than $100,000 annually since the first #GreatCampGive back in 2020.

Want to be a supporter?

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Relive the 2025 #GreatCampGive

Every Gift of Every Size Makes a DIFFERENCE! 

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Kneel Always...

Kneel always when you light a fire,
Kneel reverently and thankful be
for Gods unfailing charity,
And on the ascending flame inspire,
a little prayer which shall up bare
The incense of your thankfulness,
for the sweet grace of warmth and light
for here again is sacrifice for your delight.

Kneel always when you light a fire,
Kneel reverently and thankful be
for Gods unfailing charity.

Sharing these words as you kneel and light your campfire are a Camp Hanover tradition. They come from “The Sacrament of Fire” by John Oxenham. You can find the complete poem below.

The Sacrament of Fire by John Oxenham

Kneel always when you light a fire!
Kneel reverently, and thankful be
For God’s unfailing charity,

And on the ascending flame inspire
A little prayer, that shall upbear
The incense of your thankfulness
For this sweet grace
Of warmth and light!
For here again is sacrifice
For your delight.

Within the wood,
That lived a joyous life
Through sunny days and rainy days
And winter storms and strife; —

Within the peat,
That drank the moorland sweet
Of bracken, whin, and sweet bell-heather,
And all the joy of gold gorse feather
Flaming like Love in wintriest weather, —
While snug below, in sun and snow,
Peat heard the beat of the padding feet
Of foal and dam, and ewe and lamb,
And the stamp of old bell-wether; —

Within the coal,
Where forests lie entombed,
Oak, elm, and chestnut, beech, and red pine bole, —
God shrined His sunshine, and enwombed
For you these stores of light and heat,
Your life-joys to complete.

These all have died that you might live;
Yours now the high prerogative
To loose their long captivities, —
To give them new sweet span of life
And fresh activities.

Kneel always when you light a fire!
Kneel reverently,
And grateful be
To God for His unfailing charity!