Camp Courage

camp
An Overnight Summer Camp for Craniofacial Patients

At Camp Courage, every child’s possibilities are endless. From team-building activities to individual support, this camp has something for everyone. Camp Courage gives every child the chance to experience camp, build friendships and make memories that last a lifetime.

Every child needs to feel special. We promote positive self-esteem with fun and learning. The only requirements are to laugh, play, grow and explore.

Children’s, in collaboration with Camp Twin Lakes, started Camp Courage to provide an enjoyable get-away and a terrific opportunity for patients with craniofacial issues to meet others with similar medical conditions. Many Children's employees and community volunteers will spearhead programs and activities throughout the camp to address issues, such as self-esteem and personal confidence.

2013 Camp Dates: Sunday, May 26 to Friday, May 31

  • CAMPERS - children ages 7 to 15

      - Camper Fee: The cost of camp is $100; however, Camp Courage wants every child to be able to attend. If the cost of camp is an issue, please indicate that on your application. Donations are always welcome.

      - Medical Staff: Camp Courage will have clinical staff available 24 hours a day. Our volunteers consist of staff from Children's, as well as community volunteers committed to making Camp Courage a special weekend for your child.

      - Parent Volunteers: While we are thankful parents have expressed interest in volunteering at Camp Courage, it is camp policy that parents do not volunteer during the camp session. We strongly believe camp is an excellent opportunity for your child to gain independence and self-esteem. If you would like to volunteer before camp, your time and skills would be greatly appreciated.

      Apply

      The deadline to submit the Camper Application Form is March 29, 2013.

      - Submit follow up documents by April 5, 2013. The online application must be completed before submitting these follow up documents.

      - The camper application must be completed by a legal guardian of the child.

      Prepare for Camp

      Packing List

      Homesickness

      Typical Camper Schedule

  • LEADERS IN TRAINING - previous campers ages 16 and 17

      Apply

      The deadline to submit the Leader in Training Application Form is March 1, 2013.  

      - Submit follow up documents by March 8, 2013 in order to be eligible for an interview. An assessment of leaders in training will be held on April 22 at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Limited spots are available. Acceptance will be determined by May 3.

      - Please note: The camper application must be completed by a legal guardian of the child. The prospective Leader in Training must personally complete an additional application to be found in the follow up documents packet.

      - ALL leaders in training must attend a day designated for assessing team building skills, group interactions, and leadership skills (Date and location TBA). 

      - Once selected, ALL Leaders in Trainings are required to attend orientation.

      - Fee: The cost of camp is $100; however, Camp Courage wants every child to be able to attend. If the cost of camp is an issue, please indicate that on your application. Donations are always welcome.

  • VOLUNTEERS

      Volunteer Camp Dates: Attend Volunteer Orientation on May 4, 2013. Arrive to camp on Saturday, May 25, 2013, which is one day before campers. Stay through the camp week: Sunday, May 26 to Friday, May 31.

      Volunteer Opportunities

      - Cabin Counselors: Participate in all camp activities with a group of campers. Cabin Counselors sleep in a cabin with the campers.

      - Activity Counselors: Participate in all camp activities with a group of campers and help out where needed.

      - Nurses: Help distribute medications to campers, administer first aid or treatment of related medical problems as needed, communicate with family members if needed, maintain documentation and provide any appropriate management of camper health care. This includes: basic care, first aid, and any other medical needs. NOTE: You must provide a valid nursing license in the state of Georgia.

      - Nursing/Pharmacy Students: Help medical staff to triage campers in medical lodge and act as day helpers.

      Apply

      The deadline to submit the Volunteer Application Form is April 26, 2013.

      - Submit follow up documents by April 29, 2013 in order to be eligible for an interview. NOTE: Application must be completed before follow up documents can be submitted.

      - All volunteers are required to attend Volunteer Orientation on May 4, 2013.

      - If you are a Children's employee, please review the Children's employee camp policy.

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Memories from Camp Courage (10 Images)

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At Camp Courage, every child’s possibilities are endless. From team-building activities to individual support, this camp has something for everyone. Camp Courage gives every child the chance to experience camp, build friendships and make memories that last a lifetime.
 

Camp Goals

  • Increase independence in each campers' activities of daily living.
  • Provide children and young adults with Craniofacial disorders opportunities they might not have to participate in activities which may not be accessible other then at camp.
  • Increase children and young adults' self-worth, self esteem and social skills. We hope campers learn to be more willing to try new things through participation in camp activities.
  • Provide activities that allow campers to see themselves as human beings and not disabled or impaired.
  • Provide parents with a respite break while providing activities that are safe, adapted and modified for the camp participants to be successful. 

Location

Camp Courage is held at Camp Twin Lakes-Will-A-Way
210 S. Broad St.
Winder, GA 30680-2059
770-867-6123
Directions

Prepare for Camp

More Information 

Claire Aikens at 404-785-4425 or e-mail with any questions.

Testimonials

  • Camp Courage Read a mom's perspective on camp
  • Preston, 11, Greenwood, Miss.
    I liked all the things we did like swimming, fishing, riding bikes, climbing the rock wall, paddle boating and canoeing. The food was really great. While I was there, I met kids who had similar problems as me. It was cool to meet other kids like that. Camp Courage was really awesome. I can't wait to go back.
  • Presley, 11, Greenwood, Miss.
    I met a lot of new friends, and some of them were born with clefts just like me. We all had fun doing activities. The girls even had a fashion show. The four days went by fast, and I wanted to stay longer. I was glad to see my Mom and Dad, but I was sad to leave my new friends. I can't wait to see my friends again and maybe even meet some new ones next time.
  • Abby, 9, Warner Robins, Ga.
    I loved Camp Courage! I loved the fashion show and the paddle boats! I also liked the camp fires and s’mores. The adults were so friendly and cool!
  • Hannah, 11, Warner Robins, Ga.
    Camp Courage was awesome. I loved it so much! My favorite things there was fishing, swimming and making friends.