Finding physically disabled kids between the ages of 10 and 18 for Camp Wamp requires a multi-faceted approach. And, we need your help!
Here are a few ideas to spread the word and help us find more campers.
1. Schools & Special Education Programs
- Public & Private Schools: Contact school districts and individual schools, especially those with strong special education (SPED) departments.
- Specialized Schools: Reach out to schools specifically for students with disabilities.
- IEP & 504 Coordinators: These professionals work directly with students who may be a great fit.
- PTA & Parent Networks: Engage with parents through school email lists or newsletters.
2. Children’s Hospitals & Rehabilitation Centers
- Children’s Hospitals: Partner with hospitals like Shriners Hospitals for Children, UCSF Benioff, or Rady Children’s Hospital.
- Physical & Occupational Therapists: They work closely with kids who might benefit from Camp WAMP.
- Rehabilitation Centers: Facilities that offer long-term therapy for children with physical disabilities.
3. Disability Organizations & Nonprofits
- United Cerebral Palsy (UCP)
- Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA)
- Spina Bifida Association
- National Federation of the Blind (NFB)
- Little People of America
- Pediatric Limb Loss and Limb Difference Programs
4. Online Communities & Social Media
- Facebook Groups: Many parent groups focus on disability communities.
- Instagram & TikTok: Influencers in the disability space can help promote.
- Reddit Communities: Subreddits like r/disability or r/parenting might have interested families.
- YouTube & Disability Bloggers: Partner with disability advocates who have large followings.
5. Adaptive Sports & Recreation Programs
- Local Adaptive Sports Leagues (e.g., wheelchair basketball, sled hockey, adaptive climbing)
- Paralympic Development Programs
- Boy Scouts of America – Disability Troops
- YMCA & Community Rec Centers that have adaptive sports programs.
6. Summer Camp & Outdoor Programs for Kids with Disabilities
- American Camp Association (ACA): They list disability camps that may help with referrals.
- Local Parks & Recreation Departments: Many run adaptive programs.
7. Doctors & Medical Professionals
- Pediatricians
- Orthopedic Surgeons
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Doctors (PM&R)
- Neurologists
8. Government & Advocacy Agencies
- State & County Departments of Disability Services
- Department of Education (Special Education Divisions)
- Vocational Rehab & Transition Services for Youth with Disabilities
9. Word of Mouth & Alumni Families
- Encourage past campers & families to spread the word.
- Referral Incentives: Consider offering a small incentive (like camp swag) for families who refer others.
Would you like help drafting outreach emails or social media posts to connect with these groups? Contact us to get started.
Recent Comments