by Hanna Singh
Big things are happening at MedCamps of Louisiana this year.
With the 2025 schedule now available, parents can register their children for a variety of summer camps designed for youth with special needs.
MedCamps of Louisiana is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a meaningful camp experience for children with medical or developmental disabilities. The organization offers a series of one-week camps each spring and summer at Camp Alabama, where children participate in activities such as fishing, swimming, canoeing, horseback riding and more, all in a safe and supportive environment.
Their mission statement states that, “we believe that all people, regardless of medical or special needs, deserve to experience life to the fullest. Camping is an American tradition that epitomizes normalcy and provides participants with a sense of well-being, belonging, accomplishment, and self-worth.”
For the 2025 season, MedCamps will offer 25 different sessions designed to meet the needs of children with various medical conditions and disabilities. The dedicated staff and volunteers work to create an environment where children can learn and grow without fear of stigmas surrounding their disabilities. MedCamps Executive Director, Caleb Seney, explained how the organization provides a meaningful experience to these youth.
“At MedCamps, we have the priveledge and honor to serve children with special needs, not by changing who they are, but by creating a space where their unique strengths shine and their spirits soar,” Seney said. “This summer, as we serve more children and families, it is my hope that in every challenge, we find an opportunity to grow together, with hearts full of patience, love and understanding.
“I hope that in every interaction, conversation and activity, that we are the very hands and feet of Jesus Christ to a vulnerable and vastly underserved group of children. I hope as always that MedCamps is a place where our campers find a sense of belonging, that the stigma of their disability is relieved and that the environment is one in which they feel supported, encouraged and challenged to reach their fullest potential.”
MedCamps’ impact goes beyond summer fun. For many of these children, attending camp is an opportunity to experience independence and adventure in a setting designed for children like them. The camp’s activities provide recreation and also help campers build confidence and develop new skills without fear.
Camp Director Kacie Whipple, shared what she is anticipating for the 2025 season.
“This year, I am looking forward to serving as many people living with chronic illnesses and other disabilities as possible,” said Whipple. “Here at MedCamps, we give our campers a sense of normalcy and independence. We believe that all people deserve camp, and our campers are no exception. This summer, I am excited to continue to be an advocate for our campers and give them the best week of their life, at the best camp ever.”
In addition to prepping for summer fun, MedCamps is also celebrating a new addition to the camp. On Feb 26th, the Louisiana Tech School of Design broke ground on a new pedalboat launch for Camp Alabama. This new feature will open the door to even more exciting experiences for attendees.
As MedCamps of Louisiana prepares for another season of life-changing experiences, the staff and volunteers remain committed to their mission of providing learning, adventure and fun to the children who need it most.
