What is Camp Casey?
Kiwanis Camp Casey is a week long summer camp for children ages 6-17 with physical disabilities. For over 75 years, the North Central of Seattle Kiwanis Club has fully funded camp, making it free of charge to all campers. Camp takes place at Lions Camp Horizon in Blaine, WA. Transportation to and from camp is provided from north Seattle.
Who is Camp Casey For?
Campers include children with Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Muscular Dystrophy, amputees, and other physical limitations. This is one of the few camps that is specifically for children who are mildly to severely physically challenged and can communicate their needs either verbally or through an augmentative communication device. (The camper’s disability must be primarily physical.) Camp often includes children who are non-verbal using communication devices, independent power wheelchair users, and children who require one-on-one help with eating.
Camp Casey is not appropriate for autistic children, children with behavioral issues, children with significant cognitive impairment, or children requiring intensive medical attention.
What do Campers do at Camp Casey?
Activities at camp include swimming, trips to the beach and Fort Casey, campfires, a dance, talent show, carnival, parade, themed meals, and interest groups (cooking, science, drama, sports, etc.). There are often appearances by people such as the Mariner Moose, the Bubble Man, professional magicians, mad scientists, and many more. But don’t worry, we will also make sure you get plenty of free time to socialize with friends, get creative in the arts and crafts hall, and play games. Campers are given as little or as much assistance as needed to fully participate in all activities.
Other Camps
If our camp is not the right one for your child, Children’s Hospital maintains a list of camps that serve children with many types of special needs. You can view this online directory at:
http://cshcn.org/resources-contacts/summer-camp-directory