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"IndependenceFirst provides an opportunity for youth with severe disabilities ages 8-18 to experience the fun of camp while working towards increasing their independence. Camp activities are offered in an integrated setting with non-disabled campers hosted by the YMCA Camp Matawa. Kids with and without disabilities look forward to coming to camp to discover together, new abilities and interests, learn about teamwork and sportsmanship, and truly appreciate each others' differences and similarities. They share fun times and make lifelong friends. These experiences will shape their character for the rest of their lives. IndependenceFirst is a large non-profit agency directed by, and for the benefit of, persons with disabilities, primarily serving the four county metro Milwaukee area. Our mission is to effectively facilitate empowerment through education, advocacy, independent living services, and coalition building. We promote diversity and multicultural participation in our operation and services."
| Camp type: |
Special Needs |
| Region: |
Southeast Wisconsin |
| Location: |
YMCA Camp Matawa N885 Youth Camp Road Campbellsport, WI 53010-3313, Fond du Lac County |
| Program: |
Resident camp. Sessions for - coeds ages 8 to 18 |
| Season: |
August 3 to August 8. 24 nurse onsite to manage health needs and assistance with activities of daily living is provided. |
| Sessions: |
To our knowledge, we are the only fully integrated camp experience available for youth with severe disabilities anywhere. Benefits are: independence, socialization, new skills and friendships, disability role models, respite for youth and parents |
| Registration: |
Only 30 youth with disabilities are accepted each year so get your application in early! Campers can have any kind of disability. Applications can be obtained from Kathy Mohar at (414) 291-7520 x215 at IndependenceFirst. |
| Fees: |
Call for costs and application. Limited number of scholarships available. |
| Activities: |
| Archery, basketball, canoeing/kayaking, crafts, cultural/ethnic awareness, dance, horseback riding (Western), leadership training, meditation/conflict resolution, outdoor skills, painting/drawing, rock climbing, swimming. Also - All camp activities are adapted to meet campers needs and are implemented in an integrated environment. Some campers have never tried these activities before or been away from home, so this is truly their Adventure in Independent Living. |
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| Special Programs and Facilities: |
Asthma/respiratory problems, developmental disabilities, diabetes, hearing impairments, visual impairments, learning disabilities, mobility limitations. Also - 24 hour nursing, assistance with ADLs available |
| Medical Care: |
Our camp staff members are therapy students, adults with disabilities, interested community members. A nurse is on duty 24 hours a day. |
| Parent Visitation: |
Although allowed, its not encouraged. We offer a break for parents and children and a chance for youth to be as independent as possible. |
| Camp Established: |
1984 |
| Accreditations and Affiliations: |
Camp uses YMCA Camp Matawa grounds and staff integrated with our volunteers and professionals |
| Director: |
Kathy Mohar |
| Contact: |
Lead Wheelchair Sports & Adaptive Recreation Coordinator
IndependenceFirst (at YMCA Camp Matawa grounds)
600 W. Virginia St., Suite 400
IndependenceFirst
Milwaukee, WI 53204
Tel (414) 226-8375
Fax 414-291-7525
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| Owned/Operated by: |
IndependenceFirst (at YMCA Camp Matawa grounds)
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All information supplied by camp management, 04/02/2003. For details call the camp Contact above.
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