July 24, 2023
YMCA summer camps are in full swing here in Bucks and Hunterdon Counties, including our Ability Summer Camp at the Doylestown branch.
Created to provide a traditional camp experience for children with disabilities, Ability Summer Camp runs for 11 weeks each summer. There is no minimum commitment, so parents can decide what works best for their child, whether it’s one week or the full 11-week program. The outdoor camp utilizes the Y’s athletic fields, basketball court, sand volleyball court, indoor pool, and multiple tents, pavilions, and shaded areas on warm summer days.
Ability Summer Camp is a “camp within a camp,” designed for participants who, in order to be safe and successful, require a smaller staff-camper ratio than what you may find in a traditional camp environment. Ability Camp is a fully mainstream, inclusive program that provides support for children and adolescents entering grades Kindergarten through 7th grade, as well as teens and young adults, alongside their age-similar peers of all abilities. Our staff and counselors are equipped to assist and accommodate youth with various disabilities, including behavioral, physical and cognitive challenges. Our camp staff works hard to provide physical, emotional and behavioral support to help our campers fully participate and succeed in camp activities.
“This is our first year with the YMCA Ability Summer Camp. In past summers, our boys have struggled to find the right fit and support. We were all extremely nervous leading up to this summer. We didn't need to worry at all! Ability Camp has supported our kids since day one. They have an incredible staff who understand our kids' needs and strengths. Our boys are having a blast learning new activities and making new friends. They get to swim, play games, and go on field trips with the right support in place. They are ecstatic to go to camp and we are so happy to have the peace of mind that our kids are in great hands. The Ability program has provided stability and structure where other camps are lacking. We could not have dreamed of a better transition to summer. We are so grateful to the Ability Camp program!” Amy Auld, whose sons Logan and Wyatt attend YMCA Abilities Camp.
Cause Membership dues support the Y’s financial assistance program, which makes it possible for many of our Abilities program participants to attend camp. With your continued support, the Y will be able to expand our Abilities programs, reaching children and families across Bucks and Hunterdon Counties.