Adaptive Adventures Camp
Camp Dates: June 14 - 16, 2024
Camp Director: Michelle Stumbo
If you would like more information about attending or supporting Adaptive Adventures 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 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 unique 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 Adaptive Adventures 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 and 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 two nights of camping experiences that may not be available otherwise through 4-H.
With events like camp, there are always many hands working behind the scenes to ensure that things happen. Volunteer counselors and staff go out of their way to rearrange camp to prepare for our campers, parents, and caregivers. Returning families are always willing to help new families find where they need to be and we are grateful of the outpouring of community support for our camp! Thanks to the generous support of the Ohio 4-H Foundation, costs are kept to a minimum, and campers are exposed to experiences including archery, music, crafts, nature, campfire, and horseback riding.
Click Here for Adaptive Adventures Camper Applications - Due June 1
Click Here for Adaptive Adventures Camp Counselor Applications: www.go.osu.edu/AACounselorApp - Due April 1