About CAMP
CAMP's vision for all programs is that “CAMP is for the Camper.” This means regardless of the ability or disability, all campers will be respected, encouraged, inspired, and celebrated during their participation in our programs. This vision filters down into everything we do – from activities, to training, to our daily culture.
Year-round, CAMP provides recreational opportunities for individuals with medical conditions or disabilities as well as their siblings; respite for family members; leadership development for high-school students/young adults; and hands-on educational experiences for healthcare professionals.
Since 1979, CAMP has strengthened and inspired individuals with medical conditions or disabilities by allowing them to experience life without being defined by their diagnosis. This takes place through summer camp as well as monthly school year programs (Teen & Adult Day Adventure; Parent’s Night Out; Respite Weekends; and Family Weekend Retreats). Year-round, CAMP programs alleviate medical, physical, developmental, social, and intellectual barriers for campers by adapting all activities to allow full participation. CAMP environments are intentionally designed to be safe places where campers can interact in their own unique way, giving them the confidence to move around safely and allowing them to feel more in control while also boosting their self-esteem.
Families are dramatically impacted as they receive respite opportunities that not only provide a time to recharge but also lead to additional connections and peer support. Additionally, CAMP takes significant measures to remove financial barriers for families by offering “camperships” to ensure every family can participate.
The 1:1 camper to counselor ratio and volunteer health professional staff are key to providing safe experiences. Because of this, volunteers are an integral part of how CAMP delivers successful programs year-round. The scope of work for volunteers is great, but extensive training is provided that ensures volunteers of all ages are equipped and supported for their role. Educating and mentoring our staff and volunteers is another incredibly important part of CAMP’s mission.
CAMP believes that – regardless of health, disability, race, socioeconomic status, or any other labels that sometimes serve to isolate – all individuals deserve the opportunity to participate in a community where they are celebrated for who they are, not how they are labeled. We believe everyone deserves a place they belong, where they can have fun and be allowed to grow in their independence and self-confidence.
