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Inspiring Minds FOR 2025

SUMMER CAMPS

CHARLOTTE

June 16th-20th – Backstage Pass (UNCC Theater and Tech)

Location: UNCC – Robinson Hall

Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm, Girls ages 9-13 

Description:

In collaboration with UNC Charlotte College of Arts + Architecture, DRF brings you “Backstage Pass”.  Do you love theater and want to know more about what it takes to put on a show? Then this is the camp for you! This camp is taught by two UNCC professors!  If you are interested in the tech aspects of theater or would love to know more about the backstage production process, then join us for one week of in depth learning and application of all things theater and tech. Girls will learn about sets, costumes, lighting, sound, and stage management. It will be an incredible experience partnered with UNC Charlotte Performing Arts Services and Dottie Rose Foundation.

*Currently SOLD OUT – Join our waiting list below!

June 23rd-27th – DRF StatStars: Sports Analytics

Location: Johnson C. Smith University

Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm, Girls ages 9-13 

Description:

Dive into the exciting world where sports and technology collide! Hosted on the campus of Johnson C. Smith University, this engaging camp invites girls aged 9 to 13 to explore the power of sports analytics, media, and design. Participants will delve into basketball, golf, soccer, and eSports (featuring Rocket League), while learning key skills like teamwork, leadership, and creative problem-solving.  Led by DRF and support from JCSU professors, campers will analyze game stats, design custom jerseys, and uncover the stories behind the numbers. Whether on the field, court, or console, this camp is the perfect blend of fun, education, and innovation.

*Currently SOLD OUT – Join our waiting list below!

June 30th-July 3rd – DRF Farm to Code = HEALTH

Location: “The Pearl” (Dilworth)

Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm, Girls ages 9-13 

Description:

Experience a one-of-a-kind summer adventure where technology, health, and innovation meet! Designed for girls aged 9 to 13, this camp blends hands-on coding with real-world lessons in health and wellness. Located at The Pearl, Charlotte’s innovation district, participants will explore concepts like healthy eating, work-life balance, and mental health while diving into engaging STEM activities.

Campers will visit Pearl Park, meet medical professionals, and learn about cutting-edge technologies like the Med Air helicopter and cancer research at the Proton Center. Interactive sessions in the demo kitchen and simulated medical spaces will connect technology with everyday life, fostering creativity and curiosity.

Join us to code, create, and cultivate a healthier future in this inspiring and fun-filled camp experience!

*Currently SOLD OUT – Join our waiting list below!

OTHER CAMPS IN CHARLOTTE

June 16th-20th (no camp June 19th – Juneteenth) Pixels and Paint

Location: Trinity Episcopal School

DRF Lead: Eva 

For more information email [email protected]

Cap of 20, Mon-Wed, Fri, 9am-4pm, Rising 3-6

Description:

Designed to foster a love for learning and empower girls in the world of computer science, this immersive workshop invites participants to unravel the mysteries of binary code while creating their own pixel masterpieces. Throughout the week, campers will explore the fusion of technology and art, decoding binary images and translating them into vibrant, tangible creations using traditional painting techniques. The program not only cultivates technical skills but also encourages collaboration through team projects, providing a unique space for creativity to flourish.  Pixels and Paints promises a dynamic adventure where each pixel tells a story of innovation and self-expression. Secure a spot now for an unforgettable journey into the intersection of art and technology!

July 28th-August 8th – SheCanCode (2 weeks – Week 1 lead by Digi-Bridge, Week 2 lead by DRF) **Must commit to BOTH weeks**

DRF Week: Eco-Chic: Fashioning the Future

Location: AvidXChange Silverhammer Building

DRF Lead: Chasity

For more information email [email protected]

Cap of 20, Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm, Girls ages 9-13

Description: 

Eco-Chic: Fashioning the Future is a dynamic summer camp where creativity meets sustainability. This immersive program empowers participants to explore sustainable fashion and innovative design practices.

In Week 2: “Upcycle & Innovate”, campers unleash their creativity by transforming thrifted or old items into stunning, one-of-a-kind fashion pieces. They learn the art of upcycling and delve into sustainable fashion entrepreneurship. Through branding workshops, campers design mood boards and logos for their own eco-friendly brands, culminating in an “Eco-Chic” fashion show. Here, they proudly present their upcycled creations while sharing their journey toward sustainable design.

This week inspires participants to rethink fashion, embrace sustainability, and innovate for a greener future.

SOUTH CAROLINA

June 2nd-6th – Get Your Game On! (Greenville, SC)

DRF Lead: Ivanna

Cap of 20, Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm, Ages 9-13 

For more information email [email protected]

Description:

Level up your creativity in this exciting game design camp! Campers will explore what makes a great game by playing and analyzing real-world games before diving into Scratch to bring their own game ideas to life. From coding mechanics to designing stunning game art, participants will develop the skills needed to create engaging and interactive experiences. Whether you’re a beginner or an aspiring game developer, this camp is the perfect place to turn your ideas into playable adventures!

June 9th-13th – Robotics: Biomimicry (Columbia, SC)

DRF Lead: Chasity

For more information email [email protected]

Cap of 20, Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm, Girls ages 9-13 

Description:

Discover how nature inspires technology in this hands-on robotics camp! Campers will explore biomimicry—how engineers use nature’s designs to solve real-world problems—while programming Finch Robots, Lego Spike Primes, and Spheros. Through interactive challenges and Scratch coding, participants will bring their robotic creations to life, mimicking the movement and intelligence of animals. This camp is perfect for curious minds eager to blend science, coding, and creativity!

OTHER PROGRAMS

July 28th-August 1st – StackBytes BootCamp

Location: Johnson C Smith University

DRF Lead: Ivanna 

For more information, email [email protected]

Cohort #4

Mon-Thur, timing TBD Fri – virtual office hour check in 

Description

Welcome to StackBytes Bootcamp: Launching a Year of Growth and Discovery

The StackBytes Bootcamp is an immersive, weeklong experience designed to kickstart your journey as a full-stack developer. Tailored for high school girls with no prior experience, this program lays the foundation for a year of learning, collaboration, and personal growth.

What to Expect:

  • Build Connections: Form meaningful relationships with your cohort through team-building activities and collaborative projects. This is your chance to create a supportive community that will thrive throughout the year.
  • Technical Setup: Get equipped with the tools you’ll need for success. We’ll set up your software (including VS Code) and hardware, guide you through access to our online learning platform, and introduce essential workflows.
  • Intro to Development: Dive into the world of web development with engaging sessions on HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You’ll walk away with a solid understanding of the basics and the confidence to build on them.
  • Professional Exposure: Tour a local tech company to see the industry in action and learn about potential career pathways.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with tech professionals in speed networking sessions, where you’ll gain insights into the field, ask questions, and expand your network.
  • Polish Your Pitch: Practice crafting and delivering an elevator pitch that highlights your unique strengths and aspirations, setting the stage for future opportunities.

By the end of the bootcamp, you’ll not only have the tools and skills to embark on this journey but also a network of peers and mentors cheering you on every step of the way. Get ready to code, connect, and create with StackBytes!