Special Needs Camp
Where smiles happen…
Grant Recipient: Camp High Hopes
Camp High Hopes is a new year-round recreational facility exclusively designed and operated for children and adults with special needs and/or disabilities. The camp’s primary programs are recreational in nature and are based in a handicapped accessible camp setting that has 
been adapted for special needs. Residential week-long and weekend respite programs are offered year-round with day camp programs in the summer months. Activities include archery, canoeing, arts, crafts, fishing, swimming, sports, challenge courses, and much more. All activities are adapted, supervised, and monitored by specially trained staff to ensure a successful and fun camp experience, no matter what the ability level of the camper. Onsite nursing staff will ensure that the medical needs of campers are met, from daily medication administration to feeding tube maintenance.
Once operational, the camp will seek accreditation by the American Camp Association and aims to be a Certified Respite Care Provider from the State of Iowa. Campers attend Camp High Hopes using private dollars, Medicaid Respite dollars, or apply for a camp scholarship. Camp High Hopes is staffed by trained professionals and supplemented by many interns and volunteers. The camp is a 501C3 non-profit organization and operates without state or federal assistance.
About the Project
Working to construct phase one, Camp High Hopes is a year-round camp designed exclusively for children and adults with special needs. Included in phase one will be a lodge, one cabin, and infrastructure improvements to the 90 acre campus including paving, sewer and water systems, landscaping, and outfitting the camp with equipment and furnishings.
Artist’s Rendering of Lakeside view of the Lodge
A 21,000 square foot lodge will be the hub of the camp, where hundreds of campers and staff members will gather for meals as well as activities and entertainment. Several fundraising events for the camp will also take center stage at the lodge. The facility will have a level dedicated for nursing activities and medical care as space for camper registration, camp merchandise sales, and day to day operations.
Artist’s Rendering of Cabin
The two-level handicapped accessible cabin will be equipped with 8 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms as well as security and temperature control systems. The 7,000 square foot structure will safely accommodate the needs of up to 80 campers and full-time and seasonal staff. Both levels of the cabin will be designed to be storm proof shelters.
Once complete, Camp High Hopes will be able to offer camping sessions to approximately 2,000 campers per year.
Donations
Camp High Hopes is actively seeking donors who can contribute cash or in-kind donations. All types of donations are needed and greatly appreciated. Donate Now.
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