Camp Information

Camp I Am Me’s Summer Camp is a free, one-week overnight camp designed exclusively for children and teens who have experienced burn injuries. Hosted at YMCA Camp Duncan in Ingleside, Illinois, this program creates a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where campers can simply be kids without feeling defined by their injuries.

For 35 years, this program has helped young burn survivors build confidence, independence, and lifelong friendships while enjoying a traditional camp experience tailored to their unique needs.

Who Can Attend?

Summer Camp is open to:

• Youth ages 7-17 who have experienced a burn injury requiring outpatient treatment or hospitalization
• 18-20 year-olds (Leaders-in-Training Program) who have experienced a burn injury and have participated in at least one year of Summer Camp prior to the age of 18
• The Leader-in-Training program offers leadership development and even scholarship opportunities
• Participation is subject to medical approval to ensure each camper’s safety and well-being

Activities & Experience

Campers enjoy a wide range of traditional and adaptive activities, including:

• Swimming, boating, and water sports
• Archery, rock climbing, and ropes courses
• Arts, crafts, music, and talent shows
• Horseback riding, sports, and campfires

In addition, specialized workshops and programming are designed specifically to support the unique emotional and developmental needs of burn survivors.

Transportation Made Easy

Camp I Am Me works to remove barriers for families by offering:

• Bus/van transportation from multiple locations across Illinois (including Chicago and other regional hubs)
• The option for parent drop-off and/or pick-up
• Support for families facing transportation challenges

No matter where you live in Illinois, our team works to ensure your child can attend.

Cost: Completely Free

Thanks to generous donors, sponsors, and volunteers, all Summer Camp is provided at no cost to families, including:

• Lodging
• Meals
• Activities and supplies
• Transportation

This allows every eligible child the opportunity to attend, regardless of financial circumstances.

Registration

Getting started is simple:

1. Request a camper application by contacting the Camp I Am Me office (847) 390-0911/ifsa@ifsa.org, or click on the button below
2. Applications are typically distributed in February/March each year
3. Complete the application (approximately 10–15 minutes)
4. Submit before deadlines to ensure placement

Families are encouraged to join the contact list early to ensure they receive application materials and updates.

Follow us on social media for updates on programs, events, and activities scheduled throughout the year – as well as great photos from Summer Camp!
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“Thank you SO much for all you do for these campers. It is a blessing to have our son be part of this camp every year, to know that he is somewhere he feels he belongs and where he is well-cared for. The counselors are amazing and we are so appreciative of the time and energy that everyone devotes to this wonderful camping experience.”