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Summer Camp

June 16-22, 2024

Two young girls posing for a picture of camp friends

A special and unforgettable one-week camp experience for children and teenagers who have experienced injuries from burns. Through the generosity of donors, supporters, and volunteers, Camp I Am Me offers this summer camping opportunity at no-cost to campers; including lodging, meals, activities, and transportation to and from camp (YMCA Camp Duncan – Ingleside, IL).

No other Camp I Am Me program has received greater attention from the fire service, medical community, general public and the media than Summer Camp. Camp provides the setting for child burn survivors to share their common experiences while being able to play and not feel self-conscious about their scars. The benefits to the campers – physical, psychological, and emotional – have been enough to inspire a long list of eager volunteers and contributors.

2024 Camper Applications will be emailed/mailed to camper parents/guardians in early 2024. If you have a child that is Summer Camp eligible, be sure to contact the Camp I Am Me office to ensure you receive an Application Form.

Mission

Since 1991, the Summer Camp program has been providing this safe, non-judgmental summer camp environment for children to have the opportunity to build their self-esteem as they enjoy the varied activities that make up their week-long experience.

Activities

Camp activities include archery, board games, boating, campfires, canoes, kayaks, sailboats, crafts, fire apparatus parade, fishing, fun fair, gems and journals, high ropes obstacle course, horseback riding, music and dance, rock climbing, sports, indoor and outdoor swimming, talent show, woodworking, and more!  There is also a variety of specialized workshops offered to deal with the specific needs of a young burn survivor.

Camp Staff

In addition to YMCA counselors, the Summer Camp is staffed by volunteers including many doctors, nurses, social workers, physical and occupational therapists, fire service personnel, teachers, and other professionals.  The qualified staff participates in various professional development and orientation sessions designed to prepare them to deal with the specific needs of burn survivors as well as to build a cohesive team.  This highly dedicated group of volunteers results in a nearly 1:1 counselor to camper ratio.