Big Ideas Camp

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Big Ideas Camp

Monday, August 10 - Thursday, August 13, 9 am - 3 pm and Friday, August 14, 9 am - 1 pm

Mon, August 10
9:00 am
- 3:00 pm

Big Ideas Camp

Time

Mon, August 10, 2026 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Pricing

$370 For the Week

Location

Gorton Center
400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest, IL 60045

BIG Ideas Camp

We’re thrilled to offer another year of the BIG Ideas Camp, our signature summer program and the heart of what we do. Over the past summers, this camp has helped girls discover their voice, build confidence, and turn curiosity into action.

BIG Ideas Camp is a one-week, hands-on experience that blends design thinking, startup skills, and college-ready confidence—all in a fun, supportive, and girl-centered environment. Campers explore who they are, what they care about, and how to take meaningful action on their ideas.

We inspire girls to believe:

  • Their ideas matter
  • Curiosity and risk-taking lead to growth
  • Collaboration is powerful, and fun
  • Mistakes are not failures; they’re how we learn & grow!

What Will Girls Learn?

Confidence & Resilience
Campers practice expressing themselves, embracing challenges, and reframing setbacks as steppingstones to their success.

Entrepreneurial Thinking
Campers learn to spot real-world problems and brainstorm creative solutions using the mindset of a founder.

Creative Problem-Solving
Through design thinking, girls research, ideate, and prototype solutions to issues they genuinely care about.

Teamwork & Leadership
Working in teams, campers strengthen communication skills, learn to lead with empathy, and support one another.

Presentation & Pitching
Girls build public-speaking confidence and proudly share their ideas at a culminating final pitch!

Why Choose BIG Ideas Camp?

This is more than a camp, it’s a confidence-building launchpad. It changes how girls see themselves: as capable, creative, and brave problem-solvers.

Through high-energy activities, meaningful friendships, and inspiring mentors, your child will gain skills that last far beyond the summer while having an unforgettable experience along the way.

Spots fill quickly so join us in launching BIG ideas and bold dreams!

For Girls Ages 11–14

 

Gorton Center is a premier destination for outstanding cultural and performing arts experiences serving the residents of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and the surrounding region. As a proud nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, we are dedicated to enriching our community through an array of exceptional events and programs.

At Gorton Center, we believe in the transformative power of the arts. Our vibrant calendar is brimming with diverse offerings, ensuring there's always something to captivate and inspire you. From live music performances that resonate with your soul to comedy nights that leave you in stitches, we curate events to suit all tastes and interests. Our dedication to quality and community engagement means you can expect only the best in cultural entertainment.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor, there’s always something extraordinary waiting for you. Come be a part of our community, where every event is an opportunity to connect, enjoy, and be inspired.

Gorton Center will take and may use photos and videos from this event for its promotional purposes. Your attendance indicates your consent to the above.

Refunds will only be given up to one week prior to the first week of class of any session. (The refund period for some classes, which require advanced reservations or purchase of materials, may be more limited.) Cancellations will incur a $5 handling fee for programs costing under $100 and a 10% handling fee for programs with fees of $100 or more. If a class is cancelled due to insufficient enrollment, you will be notified, and a full refund will be given.

If this class does not meet the minimum participation requirement, you will be notified of the cancellation within one week of the start date.

Details

Date:
Mon, August 10
Time:
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Event Categories:
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Event Tags:
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Venue

Gorton Center
400 East Illinois Road
Lake Forest, IL 60045
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Phone
(847) 234-6060