Funding will provide summer camp scholarships for Coachella Valley youth and strengthen equine education program
– More Coachella Valley children will experience the confidence-building benefits of summer camp at Pathfinder Ranch thanks to a $25,000 Impact Grant from the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation.
The gift will provide approximately 29 summer camp scholarships for youth who might not otherwise have an opportunity to attend Pathfinder Ranch’s overnight camp near Idyllwild. Funding will also support Pathfinder’s equine education program, where campers develop responsibility, empathy and self-confidence through hands-on experiences with horses.
“Pathfinder Ranch has been transforming young lives through outdoor education for generations,” said Catharine Reed, Vice President of Charitable Programs for the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. “The Foundation is proud to help make these unforgettable camp experiences available to more Coachella Valley children.”
Located in the San Jacinto Mountains, Pathfinder Ranch provides children ages 7 to 17 with opportunities to build independence, resilience and lasting friendships through nature exploration, archery, team-building activities and cabin living. The camp is designed to help young people discover new strengths while learning in a supportive, screen-free environment.
“We are deeply grateful to the Berger Foundation for investing in the young people we serve,” said Chris Fife, Executive Director of Pathfinder Ranch. “These scholarships will give many children the opportunity to discover strengths they never knew they had, and support for our equine education program will benefit every camper this summer and into the fall.”
Registration is currently open for various camp experiences at Pathfinder Ranch from June 28-July 23, 2026. Throughout the year, Pathfinder hosts outdoor education camps with other nonprofits and schools.
“News Channel 3 is proud to partner with the Berger Foundation and Pathfinder Ranch to offer kids an opportunity to experience nature and new adventures,” said Jerry Upham, Vice President and General Manager of Gulf California Broadcast Company, which owns and operates KESQ News Channel 3.
Impact Grants are a partnership between News Channel 3 and the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. Representatives from both entities look for local 501(c)(3) nonprofits to recognize for their outstanding work to improve people’s lives and help those in need. Impact Grants are awarded on the concept that through service, funding and awareness, we are “Making a Difference Together.” Beyond the grant, each organization also receives media coverage about its mission across a variety of News Channel 3’s platforms, including News Channel 3 News at 4 and KESQ.com.
To learn more about Pathfinder Ranch, visit www.pathfinderranch.com
