May 12, 2014
Camp Little Giant registration is open
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Camp Little Giant is a place where children and adults of varying abilities and disabilities can enjoy a real summer camp experience.
Registration is underway for Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s summer 2014 therapeutic recreation camps at the Touch of Nature Environmental Center. Since 1952, when the camp was one of first programs of its kind in the United States, people have been discovering the fun they can have and see what they are capable of achieving.
Campers participate in activities including swimming, fishing, arts and crafts, music, dancing, boat rides, talent shows, horseback riding, games and sports, dances, campfires and nature hikes. The camp’s trained staff members adapt activities to each participant’s specific needs and abilities. The camp’s “can do” philosophy allows participants to learn what they are capable of in a safe way that boosts their confidence.
The coeducational camp is along the shores of Little Grassy Lake at the 3,100-acre environmental center. Located about eight miles south of Carbondale on Giant City Road, the center provides separate lodging for males and female campers. The campers gather together for meals and activities that bring independence, cooperation, awareness and a sense of accomplishment and belonging. In addition to structured activities campers will also have time to relax and socialize.
Many participants return annually due to the camp’s popularity. There are 11 different camp sessions, ranging from six to 13 days. Each session focuses on a specific population of participants of varying ages and abilities.
The 2014 Camp Little Giant schedule, along with the population each session is designed for, is:
• June 8-13: Camp Olympia I, for adults 21 and older with high care needs, low mobility or who use wheelchairs.
• June 8-20: Camp Olympia II, for adults 21 and older with high care needs, low mobility or who use wheelchairs.
• June 15-20: Camp Olympia III, for young adults and adults with high care needs, low mobility or who use wheelchairs.
• June 15-20: Camp Traditions I, for adults ages 21 and older with physical, cognitive or developmental disabilities.
• June 15-27: Camp Traditions II, for adults ages 21 and older with physical, cognitive or developmental disabilities.
• June 22-27: Camp Traditions III, for adults ages 21 and older with physical, cognitive or developmental disabilities.
• July 6-11: Camp Traditions IV, for adults ages 21 and older with physical, cognitive or developmental disabilities.
• July 13-18: Camp Shawnee I, for youths ages 8-21 with physical, cognitive or developmental disabilities.
• July 13-25: Camp Shawnee II, for youths ages 8-21 with physical, cognitive or developmental disabilities.
• July 20-25: Camp Shawnee III, for youths ages 8-21 with physical, cognitive or developmental disabilities.
• July 27-Aug.2: Dyna Camp, for youths ages 8-19 with attention deficit, hyperactive disorder.
If a camper requires one-on-one care and supervision, the cost for each six-day camp session is $1,000 while the 13-day sessions cost $2,100. Campers who do not need that level of individual care and supervision pay $550 for a six-day session or $1,200 for the 13-day session. The seven-day Dyna Camp is $1,200 for those needing one-on-one care and supervision or $650 for those requiring less care and supervision.
The camper-to-staff ratio is at least one staff member to four campers at any time.
Some campers may qualify for scholarship assistance. Scholarships and reservations are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers residing in the area may attend camps during the day for adjusted rates.
For more information or registration forms, visit www.ton.siu.edu or call 618/453-1121.