Spirit camp

A Camp for Children with Spina Bifida.

Philosophy

Spina bifida is one of the most common, but least understood, congenital birth defects affecting one in every 1,000 live births. Some children with spina bifida have complete paralysis and require the use of a wheelchair. Others, with less severe forms, ambulate with the use of crutches; some are able to walk independently.

Established in 1990, Spirit Camp was founded to improve the quality of life for those affected with spina bifida. Spirit Camp is dedicated to providing a supportive, educational program for children and is designed to enhance campers’ self-confidence and improve their independence. It was developed to give children the opportunity to participate in a great childhood experience, while allowing parents the comfort of knowing their child is in a safe, barrier-free, environment under careful guidance by highly trained staff.

Spirit Camp allows children a chance to discover that their disabilities are common to others, and their situation is not unique. A variety of activities promote self-esteem, while allowing opportunities for creativity and self-expression in a therapeutic environment. The mission of our camp is to improve the quality of life for individuals with spina bifida.

For more information, please contact Marilee Kontz, Sanford Children’s Camping Coordinator, at (605) 328-7157. Camp scholarships are available to children through the Children’s Miracle Network.

Make a donation to Sanford Children’s Summer Camps and select Sanford Children’s Camp Fund.