What are some of the words that come to mind when you think of summer camp? Making crafts? Meeting new friends? Making incredible memories that will last a lifetime? Ooey gooey marshmallows cooked over a campfire? Summer camp offers all of this and so much more.
It’s hard to believe it’s that time of year again to start thinking about summer camps, but it most definitely is. Many summer camps around Indiana are starting to register campers now and in the coming months. If you are considering summer camp for your child with disabilities, we’ve compiled a list of summer camp options around Indiana to consider.
Camp Millhouse
Address: 25600 Kelly Road, South Bend
Website: campmillhouse.org
The mission of Camp Millhouse is to inspire self-discovery in individuals with special needs through a safe, traditional camp experience, and their vision is “a world where individuals with special needs are encouraged to realize their full potential and value to make a difference in their communities.” Some of the activities offered to campers include swimming, music, arts and crafts, adaptive art with specialized equipment, indoor and outdoor sports, low ropes challenge course, singing around the campfire, and all-camp evening programs. Camp Millhouse has trained and qualified counselors, 24-hour supervision, and 24-hour nursing staff offering special medication and diet supervision. All recreational and living facilities are designed for people of all abilities.
Camp Until a Cure
Address: 5050 East 211th St., Noblesville
Website: dyfi.org
At the Diabetes Youth Foundation of Indiana’s Camp Until A Cure, Indiana children and teens with diabetes can swim, hike, climb in low and high ropes courses, play paintball, and more — all while learning more about diabetes management. With more than 20 medical staff each session, including doctors and nurses, Camp Until A Cure is a safe place that educates, encourages and empowers.
Jameson Camp
Address: 2001 Bridgeport Road, Indianapolis
Website: jamesoncamp.org
Jameson Camp is a year-round youth development agency that provides an enriching environment for at-risk children. Many agencies refer children who would often not have a camp experience otherwise, largely due to minor social, behavioral or emotional disorders. Each year, 99% to 100% of the youth in attendance receive financial assistance, and more than 46% have at least one special needs diagnosis.
Jameson Summer Camp program helps children discover new skills, gain strength and self confidence, and provides campers with fun activities, such as swimming, camping, arts and crafts and adventure programming. The camp’s trained staff help reinforce the value of personal responsibility, a positive attitude and peaceful conflict resolution with children who often have experienced neglect, abuse or are coping with other stressful situations.
Victory Lane
Address: 1912 Bundy Ave., New Castle
Website: victorylanecamp.org
Victory Lane offers families with children with special needs the unique experience of attending camp as a family. During this time, families are able to connect with other families and hopefully begin to develop friendships and communities that will last a lifetime. The camp is a five-day experience adapted to meet the needs of the child and family.
