by Caleb Seney, Executive Director
For many children, summer camp is a place filled with swimming, laughter, new friendships, and the chance to experience independence away from home.
For children with intellectual disabilities, including many living with Down syndrome, finding a camp experience designed specifically for their needs can be difficult. That is where Camp Champ steps in.
A program of MedCamps of Louisiana, Camp Champ provides children, ages 11 to 16, with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to enjoy a traditional overnight summer camp experience in a safe, supportive environment where they can build confidence, develop independence, and create lifelong memories. The camp is held at Camp Alabama in Choudrant, Louisiana, where MedCamps hosts specialized sessions throughout the summer for children with a variety of disabilities and chronic medical conditions.
Giving every child the opportunity to experience life to the fullest is the philosophy that has guided MedCamps since its founding. The organization’s mission is to improve the health and wellness of people living with chronic illnesses and disabilities through unique recreational and educational camping experiences.
During Camp Champ, campers participate in many of the same activities enjoyed at traditional summer camps, including swimming, canoeing, arts and crafts, nature activities, games, music, and evening camp programs. Each activity is adapted to ensure campers can participate safely while being challenged to try new things and discover what they can accomplish.
For many campers, the week provides opportunities that extend far beyond recreation.
The friendships made at Camp Champ help children realize they are part of a community of peers who share similar experiences. The independence gained from spending time away from home, trying new activities, and making decisions throughout the week can have a lasting impact long after campers return home.
Camp Alabama provides an ideal setting for those experiences. The nearly 80-acre wooded property features accessible facilities, a lake with canoes and paddleboats, a wheelchair-accessible swimming pool, a zipline, and areas designed specifically to allow campers with disabilities to participate in traditional outdoor activities.
Since its beginning in 1987, MedCamps of Louisiana has grown from a single camp serving children with asthma and allergies into an organization offering multiple specialized camping programs for children with a wide range of disabilities and chronic illnesses. Today, MedCamps continues its commitment to providing these experiences at no cost to campers and their families.
The organization’s ability to provide Camp Champ and other sessions depends on the support of donors, volunteers, medical professionals, counselors, and community partners who believe every child deserves the opportunity to experience camp.
At Camp Champ, the goal is simple: allow children to be seen for their abilities rather than their limitations.
Each summer, campers trade routines and restrictions for laughter, adventure, friendship, and the feeling of belonging that comes from being part of a camp community.
For more information about MedCamps of Louisiana, Camp Champ, volunteer opportunities, or ways to support the organization, visit MedCamps.org.
