In 1974, “Peanuts” creator Charles Schulz introduced a new persona for the multifaceted Snoopy: Beagle Scout leader, who marshals his troop of scouts—a.k.a., Woodstock and his bird friends—for hikes, campouts, and other outdoor fun. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of these daring outdoor adventurers, Peanuts Worldwide is entering into a multi-year partnership with YMCA of the USA (Y-USA) -- the national resource office for the 2,500+ Ys across the country -- to increase summer camp access, innovative conservation programs, and camp leadership development for children across the U.S. and internationally.
The national partnership between Peanuts and Y-USA will include:
Healthy Kids Day® Sponsorship (U.S. only): In 2024 and 2025, Peanuts will be the national sponsor for Healthy Kids Day, the Y’s national initiative to improve the health and well-being of kids and families. Reaching more than 1 million attendees across 1,450 free community events, Ys across the country aim to inspire kids and families to keep their minds and bodies active throughout the summer months.
National and International Y Camp Scholarships (overnight and day camps): Peanuts will provide 1,800 camp scholarships over three years, offering a transformational camp experience to kids who may not otherwise be able to participate. Peanuts also will collaborate on Beagle Scout conservation programs with National Parks Service Y camps, providing engaging age-appropriate Peanuts materials and activities for children. In addition, Peanuts will provide 500 camp scholarships across Y camp locations in Germany, Spain, Korea and Japan over three years, including translated Peanuts materials and communications.
“As we mark 50 years of the beloved Beagle Scouts, we celebrate the kind of outdoor adventures that pop up throughout the Peanuts comic strip—healthy and fun-filled activities that every child should have access to,” says Melissa Menta, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications for Peanuts Worldwide. “It makes perfect sense to partner with an organization that is synonymous with making camp accessible for all: the Y. We’re excited to work together to bring great outdoor adventures to children in five different countries!”
“Children have a natural fondness for Snoopy, so we’re delighted that Beagle Scout Snoopy and his fellow scouts will be working with the Y to engage kids in great summertime activities,” says Abby Rogers, Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer for Y-USA. “We believe camp is a transformational experience, and Snoopy and Peanuts will be making a huge difference in kids’ lives as they make new friends, learn new skills, and interact with nature.”