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Special Needs Summer Camp Goes Year Round

Shepherds Camp at Arrowhead

By Kat Troy May 3, 2018

Shepherds Camp has been offering a full care overnight camp in Brackney, Pennsylvania since 1962. Started by Leo Spencer and Ron & Miriam Tenney,  they had a vision of their children, along with other teens and adults with developmental disabilities , having a place to learn and explore in a loving Christian environment. Adaptive programming and facilities, alongside their well trained and caring staff, provides a safe, fun and accessible camp experience. Shepherds Camp is approved by the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilites, or OPWDD. 

     We’ve posted previously in our 2018 Summer Camp Guide about this program and all that it has to offer in its beautiful lake front setting.  Shepherd’s Camp at Arrowhead is now going to be offered year long, instead of just the summer months. Not only are camp activities offered, but also personalized programming to suit the need of each camper, and a focus is put on independent living skills enrichment.  Campers can stay in dormitories or cabins, and receive a t-shirt and photo at the end of their stay to help them hold on to the memories. 

Some of the activities available to campers include: 

  • Archery
  • Arts & Crafts
  • Bocce Ball
  • Mini Golf
  • Music & Bible
  • Chapel
  • Wading
  • Swimming
  • Boating
  • Talent Shows
  • Movie Night
  • Picnics
  • Water Games
  • Hay Rides
  • Dance Parties
  • Group Games


     With so much to do at camp in such an amazing setting, it really can be a fun packed vacation filled with social interaction at any time of year. Staff is able to accommodate wheelchairs, feeding tubes, suprapubic catheters/ colostomy bags, bed rails, Hoyer lifts, and provide 24 hour supervision. The Pennsylvania Department of Health and Broome Developmental Services inspect the camp yearly. 

     Camp Director Ben Myers has a Master's Degree in Education, and a Bachelor's in Camping Ministry. Having been a part of Arrowhead for over 16 years, he knows what goes into running a successful camp and keeping his campers happy and safe.The staff takes their jobs seriously, while still having a great time and putting the campers at ease. Their mission is "to love and serve", and it is clear in everything they do. 

  Pam Wilson has had the pleasure of being a part of Shepherds Camp in previous years. “I think what makes the camp unique is that it is a summer camp for developmentally disabled teens and adults. I don't know of too many summer camps that can offer that!” Pam goes on to say, “It is so special to see these campers get out of their routine of life, and relax and have fun! Some of these campers attend camp for many, many years and they look forward to it! As a staff, we are ready to serve!" She and other staff members know that Shepherd’s Camp at Arrowhead may be the only chance a caregiver has to take a break and recharge their batteries. It is also a completely unique opportunity for the developmentally disabled to enjoy a vacation from their everyday life. 


 Shepherds Camp Sessions & Cost:

1 week session: $520
2 week session: $1,045
1:1 - 1 week session: $1,045 (for campers who require individualized care)


Shepherds Camp Dates: Summer 2018

May 28th - June 1st: Session May 1:1
June 3rd - 8th: Session 1A
June 10th - 15th: Session 1B
June 3rd - 15th: Session 1
June 18th - 22nd: Session June 1:1
June 24th - July 6th: Session 2
July 16th - 20th: Session July 1:1
July 22nd - August 3rd: Session 3
August 6th - 10th: Session August 1:1



Shepherds Camp Dates: Fall-Winter-Spring 2018/2019

September 16th - 28th: 2 week session

October 24th - 28th: 1 week session
October 29th - November 2nd: 1 week session
November 6th - 10th: 1 week session
November 26th - December 8th: 2 week session
March 18th - 22nd: 1 week session
March 25th - April 6th: 2 week session

* 1:1 Care available during all Fall-Winter-Spring sessions


    

     With fun and excitement around every corner, in a safe, loving environment, Shepherds Camp at Arrowhead truly offers a life-changing experience. 

 


Would you like to know more about Shepherds Camp or integrated programs for children?