Camp Dates: June 17 – 19, 2022
If you would like more information about attending or supporting Special Needs Camp at Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp, please contact Michelle Stumbo, Camp Program Director, at 740-691-6010 or Stumbo.5@osu.edu.
“4-H is for everyone,” but sometimes accessibility issues deny youth with unique abilities the opportunity to attend camp. In Ohio, a statewide 4-H camp is held at Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp in Jackson, Ohio for young people who have needs that cannot be accommodated for in a traditional camp and their caregivers. Being a typical kid is what Camp is all about and it is no different for youth with special needs. Our goal is to give Campers a true experience of Camp while meeting their needs and letting them set their own pace for fun and success!
Some youth need the availability of a camp that can accommodate their varying medical, physical, and emotional needs. Ohio 4-H Special Needs Camp is designed with these young people in mind and is tailored to their needs. It gives youth a chance to try new things in a safe environment while building relationships. When campers and caregivers were asked about the Camp, 100% of those surveyed stated that they want to return next year and one caregiver stated, “Everyone helps all the kids have a great time. No one is left out.” Campers feel the same way – one Camper listed their favorite memory as, “Seeing all of the kids, staff, counselors & parents.”
The Camp allows youth to actively participate in activities such as environmental science, crafts, music therapy, outdoor education, aquatic skills, and self-reliability. The youth, along with their caregivers, enjoy 2 nights and 2 days of camping experience that may not have been available otherwise through 4-H.
Camp webpage: https://4hcanterscave.osu.edu/home/experience-it/special-needs-camp
Registration Materials: Special Needs Camp 2022