Camp Happiness ~ Day Camp for people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Camp Happiness is a traditional one-week day camp experience for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities from Niagara County. It is offered at Camp Kenan on Lake Ontario through a collaborative effort of the Lockport Elks Lodge #41, the Lockport Family YMCA and Opportunities Unlimited of Niagara.

A $10,000 grant from the Elks National Foundation provided the impetus for this unique project. Locally, the Lockport Elks Lodge #41 has been a longstanding supporter of Opportunities Unlimited of Niagara and the Lockport Family YMCA. Their interest in the welfare of people with developmental disabilities caused them to pursue this grant establishing this cooperative inter-agency effort for Niagara County’s first and only day camp for young people with developmental disabilities. The recreational activities available as part of this week-long experience offer people with developmental disabilities numerous health and social benefits, as well as a needed respite for their caregivers. For most attendees, this will be their first experience at camp.

The Elks National Foundation funds Camp Happiness, in part, with in-kind services provided by the Lockport YMCA and Opportunities Unlimited of Niagara. Sponsorship and leadership donor opportunities are available to businesses, corporations, individuals and organizations interested in helping young people with developmental disabilities realize their potential while experiencing five fun-filled days at Camp Happiness.

Application to attend the camp*

Information for camper parent or guardian*

* Requires the free Adobe Acrobat Reader

Special thanks to AES SOMERSET, LLC for their generous donations to Camp Happiness.

During the five days of camp, participants will experience activities such as hiking, basketball, soccer, fishing, music, a rock climbing wall, horticulture projects, campfire time and arts and crafts. Additionally, a swimming pool and Lake Ontario waterfront will enable campers to enjoy swimming, boating and other aquatic activities. Lunch, snacks, prizes, a camp t-shirt and transportation to and from central locations across Niagara County will also be provided.

Camp activities will be available and accessible to all participants, and campers will be divided into age and/or ability-appropriate groups. Programming will be conducted by specially-trained YMCA staff and experienced Opportunities Unlimited of Niagara employees. Elks Lodge #41 and community volunteers will also be on hand to assist with camp operation and activities.

Opportunities Unlimited, Elks Lodge #41 and the Lockport YMCA and Camp Kenan

Stories from Day Camp – Camp Sponsors and Support – Resources and Camp Information
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