We knew John Dwyer, a 12-year old Farm Camp alum, as compassionate and generous, and always caring for those around him. He had a real fondness for the animals, leading the younger campers, and we loved having him and his sister Jayne at Farm Camp for 8 years together.

When John passed in 2019, The John Dwyer Memorial Scholarship was founded with the support of the Dwyer family as a living memorial for their beloved son and our former camper. The intent of this scholarship is to make Farm Camp possible for all children who wish to attend regardless of financial capacity.

About Farm Camp

The Hartsbrook School offers Farm Camp in one week sessions throughout the months of June, July and August. The Farm Camp program offers an immersive farm experience for children ages 4 through 15. Days include purposeful work on the land and with the animals, song and games, and quiet restful times.

The Dwyer Family’s Story

The impact Farm Camp had on John and his family is best captured in the words of Sarah, John’s mother:

“When we think about Farm Camp, the memory that sticks out most is the joy, excitement and pride that Jayne and Johnny always had when we would pick them up from camp at the end of the day. They were never in a hurry to leave and always wanted to take us on a tour of the farm, introduce us to the animals, tell us about their chores and activities of the day and maybe try to find a few more eggs the chickens had laid.”

Sarah continues, “Even if they were exhausted from a hot day doing farm chores, they always wanted to swing one more time or play another game of tether ball. They had incredible pride in bringing home butter or bread they’d made – and explaining how they’d ground the grains themselves – and then making a meal from the bread, butter and egg they had found. We still have weavings they made from the sheep’s wool and t-shirts they tie dyed.”

Farm Camp provided experiences that weren’t available in their everyday lives. As Sarah explains, “Growing up in a more urban environment outside New York City, Jayne and Johnny didn’t have ready access to the type of experience that Hartsbrook offered – being outside and working with your hands, the land and animals.”

Their connection to Farm Camp began unexpectedly: “We discovered Hartsbrook driving down Bay Rd on a trip to the Eric Carle Museum while visiting family who live in western Mass. There was a sign at the entrance to Hartsbrook that said ‘Farm Camp.’ After searching for outdoor summer experiences in our area and often coming up short, spending a week with family in Massachusetts and signing up for Farm Camp was an easy decision. Jayne and Johnny fell in love with Farm Camp and attended for 8 consecutive summers.”

The scholarship emerged from this deep connection: “After Johnny passed away, we were inspired to support Farm Camp in hopes that other children would be able to have the same wonderful experiences that Jayne and Johnny had there – learning about the land, where food comes from, playing outside and creating with their hands.”

Sarah concludes with a sentiment that captures John’s spirit perfectly: “Johnny was always a compassionate and generous child and being able to share this experience would have brought him joy.”

Your contribution to the John Dwyer Memorial Scholarship helps continue John’s legacy of compassion and generosity by ensuring that all children, regardless of financial circumstances, can experience the wonder of Farm Camp just as John did for so many summers.

Will you help us honor John’s memory by making a gift today?

Your contribution to the John Dwyer Memorial Scholarship helps continue John’s legacy of compassion and generosity by ensuring that all children, regardless of financial circumstances, can experience the wonder of Farm Camp just as John did for so many summers.

Impact of Your Gift

Every donation to the John Dwyer Memorial Scholarship directly supports children who otherwise would not be able to attend Farm Camp. Your generosity helps create lasting memories and meaningful connections to nature, animals, and sustainable living practices for the next generation.

Thank you for helping us honor John’s memory and extend his spirit of kindness to children in our community.