After almost three decades, a free summer camp for kids is in danger of coming to an abrupt end. The Wisconsin Youth Success Program at UW-Eau Claire needs to come up with $30,000 by February.

Every summer more than 400 kids take advantage of the free program on campus; 11,000 kids signed up over the past 29 years. But, with national funding a thing of the past, the camp needs to come up with some cash and quick.

"I was kind of nervous starting," says Steven Bader.

Bader was a camper for seven years; for the last two years, he's been a counselor.

"I really love to see the kids develop through their time here at camp. It's a remarkable thing to see," Bader says.

"It's a safe environment and they're learning life-long skills," says Lisa Schuetz.

Schuetz is the program's activity director. She says the 10 through 16 year olds stay healthy on the basketball courts, softball fields, soccer fields and in the gym. But, she says they also learn about drugs and alcohol and about themselves.

"It just gives them the opportunities to hone their sports skills, maybe find their niche. But, there are opportunities on our rope course, leadership opportunities, where they can develop leadership skills,” Schuetz says.

Schuetz says the free camp is more important than ever in an economy where more parents aren't able to afford to pay for camp. Bader says he knows the program kept him out of trouble and he hopes it can continue to give parents peace of mind. And keep the kids happily coming back.

"The smiles on their faces really make my day,” Bader says.

There are several fundraisers for the program throughout the year. Schuetz says they're still going to have them but unfortunately they're all after the February deadline to come up with the cash. It costs anywhere between $80,000 and $100,000 to run the camp every summer.

CLICK HERE for more information on making a donation to the Wisconsin Youth Success Program.