Courage Day Camps

**We are now hiring new day camp directors! Contact Maria for more information.**

What are the Courage Day Camps?

The Courage Day Camps give young people with physical disabilities or sensory impairments opportunities to enjoy outdoor camping experiences close to home. Directed by trained staff from the community, the Day Camps offer a variety of outdoor activities which make use of rural sites and recreational resources at each area.

Activities Abound
Camp actities are planned with these goals in mind:
*Have fun
*Develop an appreciation for the outdoors
*Learn the give and take of group experiences
*Develop independence through actively participating in a variety of educational and recreational experiences

Courage Day Camp activities are usually scheduled for two weeks, Monday through Friday, usually from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Activites might include:
*Cookouts
*Crafts
*Field trips to farms, wildlife areas or other points of interest
*Horseback riding
*Nature study
*Outdoor games
*Swimming, boating and fishing

Competent Staff
A professional training program for staff helps ensure that Courage Day Camps meet the special needs of children with physical disabilities. Supervisors take the utmost precautions to provide activities which are safe as well as adventurous. Swimming is supervised by qualified water safety instructors. Community volunteers work with the Day Camp staff. Transportation needs are coordinated with the help of parents, school officials and organizations in the area.

Eligibility
To be eligible for Courage Day Camps, a child must be between the ages of 5 and 14 and have as their primary diagnosis a physical disability, a visual, sensory, or hearing impairment, or a communication disorder. This includes children with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, paraplegia or disabling injuries.

Children who have severe allergies, a heart condition or other special conditions are considered on an individual basis. A physician's statement describing the precautions and limitations for the child's safety is required.

Children who are developmentally disabled, have behavioral issues or have epilepsy with uncontrollable seizures are generally not eligible.

Cost
Courage Day Camps receive support from area United Way campaigns, individuals, businesses and groups. Our registration fee is $100.00. Parents who wish to contribute are encouraged whenever possible, however, all campers are welcome to attend regardless of their ability to pay.

Day Camp Locations:

Applications