Camp Fire Boys and Girls

Camp Fire Boys and Girls, American organization for boys and girls from birth to age 21, originally the Camp Fire Girls, for girls 6 to 18 years old. It was founded (1910) by Luther Halsey Gulick (1865–1918) and other educators "to perpetuate the spiritual ideals of the home" and "to stimulate and aid in the formation of habits making for health and character." Boys were invited to join in 1975, and the organization was renamed; boys now comprise 45% of the membership of 667,000 (1999). Camp Fire runs resident camping, child-care, and self-reliance programs, as well as coeducational clubs led by adult volunteers.