About Camp LIFE
LIFE— it stands for Leadership, Independence and Friends through Experiences, and it’s what embodies the spirit of Camp LIFE, a unique and inclusive camping adventure for children with disabilities and their siblings.
Held twice a year in Burton, Texas at the accessible facilities of Camp For All, Camp LIFE provides recreation for children/adults ages 6-up and their siblings while offering a weekend of respite for their parents.
History
Texas A&M graduate Sterling Leija (Class of ’02) founded Camp LIFE in 2004 with the support of Dr. Amy Sharp, director of the Family Support Network at Texas A&M University.
Leija’s vision began as part of a self-directed study at Texas A&M University and has now served more than 1000 children with disabilities throughout Texas. Camp LIFE is now celebrating its nineteenth year of operation.
Camp LIFE gives campers the choice to participate in every activity you would see at any other traditional camp. Campers can experience horseback riding, fishing, archery, the zip line and rope course activities, as well as a petting zoo, canoeing, dancing and even karaoke.
The camp is staffed by pre-service special education students at Texas A&M who have the rare opportunity to experience a weekend supporting children like those they will one day serve in the classroom. Availability of a one-to-one counselor to camper ratio ensures that each camper with a disability receives the support he or she needs to fully participate in all activities. Additionally, sibling campers enjoy an extra dose of attention not always available to them when their parents are understandably busy caring for their child who has disabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Camp LIFE?
There are two weekend camps and one Family Day camp each year. Twice in the spring and once in the fall. Dates are typically announced a month or two in advance. The next camp date is November 12-14, 2021. Camp LIFE starts on Friday night after supper and ends Sunday morning after breakfast. Camp LIFE Family Day Camps start around 8:30 a.m. and ends around 3:30 p.m.
How much does it cost for my child to attend Camp LIFE?
Camp LIFE registration fees range annually depending upon our fundraising efforts. The average is currently $275 – $375 per session.
Are scholarships available if I cannot afford to send my child to Camp LIFE?
Depending on how successful our fundraising is each year, there are a few partial scholarships available. If you need financial assistance for your child to attend camp, please complete the Camp LIFE application form and state in the applicable section 1) how much you can afford to pay, 2) what type of recreational activities your child typically participates in, and 3) your child’s previous camping experiences (if any). Scholarships are generously provided by the Gibson Family Endowment and the Weston Family Endowment.
Can I apply for another scholarship if my child has attended camp in the past?
Yes, but do understand that first-timers will receive preference.
What ages do you accept?
We accept campers aged 6 and up. One sibling without a disability, aged 6 and up per family may also attend. Counselors must be at least 18 years old.
How do I register my child(ren) for camp?
Applications are released to those who are on our email list. Applications will also be available online under the Camper Application Page. The number of campers is limited and a number of spots have been reserved for returning campers. Returning campers who did not participate in the previous session will be offered the spots first.
Can parents participate?
Parents are welcome to visit the campsite when they drop off their camper; however, parents are not able to stay. When funding is available we offer a Family Day Camp and families are invited to attend as a group.
Where is Camp LIFE?
Camp LIFE is held at the Camp for All facility in Burton, Texas.
What if my child has never been to camp before?
Camp LIFE is the perfect camp for a new camper! It is only two nights, so it is a great way to transition into the camping experience. Please indicate in your application, that this is their first time away from home, so we know to provide additional support.
Who are the counselors?
The counselors are volunteers, aged 18 and over, many are TAMU students and many are repeat volunteers. All counselors attend a mandatory training that addresses ethics, safety, disability, team building, and what to expect.
Are siblings included?
Siblings, aged 6 and up, are encouraged to attend camp. We try to separate siblings sets so that a non-disabled sibling gets some special attention from their buddy as well. If space is limited, only one sibling per family may attend.
What type of activities do they do?
Camp activities range from barnyard, canoeing, fishing, horseback riding, ropes course, kick ball, archery, dress up, dancing and more. It is camp – we have fun!
What if my child has a special diet?
No problem, the Camp for All kitchen can accommodate all dietary requests.
What if my child has medications?
We have medical staff volunteer at camp. All medications are checked in with and all doses are documented. Even if your child simply bumps his/her knee it will be documented.
What if my child has behavioral concerns?
Camp LIFE is led by volunteer staff who has many years of experience with camp and with kids. All counselors must attend a Camp LIFE training to learn how to work with campers with a myriad of support needs. We also have team leaders who help counselors and campers as needed.
I have no form of transportation, can my child still attend?
We can try to help you find a family in your area who is attending but we cannot provide transportation.
Can my camper take pictures?
Campers and counselors are unable to take photos. We will have someone taking photos and we will provide a link to them after camp.
Where do I mail my forms?
All forms may be submitted via email to Aimee Day or by mail to:
Camp LIFE
Attn: Aimee Day
4225 TAMU
College Station, TX, 77843-4225