INSPIRED IMPACT is an ongoing blog series that gives voice to purpose-driven organizations and passionate leaders and entrepreneurs who are making an impact in their communities and industries.
Sarah Hartway is the director of development and communications of Adam’s Camp. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter
and learn more about Adam’s Camp at www.adamscamp.org.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
Adam’s Camp Therapy Camps provide multi-disciplinary one-on-one therapy with speech, music, physical, occupational and art therapists for children with developmental disabilities. Campers receive six hours of daily therapy for five consecutive days, while their siblings participate in sibling camp and parents join educational and recreational activities or enjoy some respite. Adam’s Camp Adventure Camps are sleep-away camps for older children through young adults with mild to moderate developmental disabilities which provide an opportunity to develop independence and participate in activities such as hiking, rafting, and swimming. Both Therapy and Adventure Camps help individuals develop skills such as communication, mobility, self-care, social skills and more.
WHY DO YOU DO IT?
When a family member has special needs, the entire family has special needs. The mission of Adam’s Camp is to realize the potentials and develop the strengths of children and young adults by bringing together individuals and families with professionals and volunteers to collaboratively provide customized, intensive therapy, family support, and recreation in a camp environment.
Everyone has untapped potentials. Sometimes a new experience or a new approach is needed to bring them out. Adam’s Camp is the only organization in Colorado that practices the intensive, multi-disciplinary, family-centered therapy model, focusing on the needs of the child with disabilities and the family. Additionally, Adam’s Camp has programs to serve these same individuals and families as they mature and their needs change which emphasize building social connections and independence.
WHAT IMPACT ARE YOU MAKING?
We are assisting individuals with developmental disabilities and their families to realize potentials and develop strengths. The skills developed at Adam’s Camp lead to a greater degree of independence and enhanced social skills which allow individuals with disabilities to achieve more in school, become more employable and build relationships critical to having a fulfilling life.
WHAT (OR WHO) INSPIRES YOU TO MAKE THIS IMPACT?
We are inspired every day by the great kids and adults we serve showing us their spirit and their strength. We’re inspired by the families who believe in their kids and fight to break down barriers for them. We’re inspired by the therapists, nurses, counselors and volunteers who spend their time making magic happen for our campers.
WHAT’S YOUR BIG DREAM FOR THE ORGANIZATION AND THE IMPACT YOU WANT TO MAKE?
Our dream would be that every family that would like to attend Adam’s Camp would be able to do so. Insurance, finances, work schedules and other barriers would fade away.
WHAT RESOURCES DO YOU NEED TO MAKE THOSE DREAMS COME TRUE?
We need great talent in the form of volunteers at all levels of the organization and we need financial support. The fees we charge only cover about half of the costs of the programs, necessitating fundraising throughout the year. We never want financial constraints to keep families from applying or attending camp.
WHAT IS (OR HAS BEEN) YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE?
In our 30+ year history, we have grown considerably but our ability to grow is limited by space constraints as well as fundraising needs. We have been resourceful in finding ways to grow despite these challenges but continue to face these issues.
WHAT WORDS OF ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER LEADERS LOOKING TO MAKE AN IMPACT?
Take it one step at a time. If you look too far ahead, you see all the roadblocks at once. Focus on your mission and share your story. Good people will want to join you in doing good.
HOW CAN OTHERS SUPPORT YOU OR YOUR CAUSE?
Spread the word about what Adam’s Camp is doing. Contact us about ways you can support our work, either by sharing your talents, making a gift or joining the fun.
Orapin Marketing + Public Relations serves those who serve others. We help purpose-driven companies and nonprofits get the attention and recognition they deserve for the impact they make by securing press coverage, strategic partnerships, and thought leadership opportunities.