Voice of the Valley Article

"Camp for Special Needs Kids is Here"

Since 2003, Camp Berachah Ministries has been inviting children with special needs to attend day and overnight summer camps. These summer camps are a mainstreamed program, integrating children with special needs into groups with their typically-developing peers. In the past, campers with ADHD, Autism, Down Syndrome, physical limitations, and other special needs have enjoyed a week at camp.

Natalie Head has headed the special needs programs at Berachah since 2004. Natalie and her highly trained staff evaluate camper's needs in order to place them in the least restrictive, safest, and most appropriate setting. Campers participate in activities such as swimming, chapels, playground games, and crafts. 

One camper in 2008 started the week moving at a very slow pace. Her peers started the week with much enthusiasm and energy, getting frustrated that they would have to slow down to accommodate the needs of the other camper. By the end of the week, however, the whole group had discovered how much more of God's creation they could discover by slowing their own pace. One of these discoveries was a tree next to Covington Creek, which became the group's secret meeting spot. It was a place where they could talk about God unashamedly, and love each other for their unique gifts. This is one of the many lessons learned from the integrated summer programs. 

While summer programs provide an opportunity for special needs children to work alongside other campers, Camp Berachah offers equestrian programs throughout the year that provide more specialized attention for children with special needs. Berachah's therapeutic riding program was started in 1993 as a way of ministering to the body, mind, and spirit of children and adults with disabilities. Therapeutic students have a great time learning while also developing social skills and horsemanship knowledge.

"Camp for Special Needs Kids is Here"

The special needs programs at Camp Berachah are unique in that they offer a Christ-focused program, employing Christian staff and using horses for teachable moments in Equestrian programs.

Volunteers are always welcome at Camp Berachah. More information on all of the programs Camp Berachah has to offer can be found at www.campb.org

Volunteers are always welcome at Camp Berachah. More information on all of the programs Camp Berachah has to offer can be found at www.campb.org.

**Article published in the July 27th issue of the Voice of the Valley. To download paper, visit www.voiceofthevalley.com**