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The programs of the Wisconsin Lions Camp have been developed to best meet the needs and interests of the special campers it serves. For that reason, separate camping sessions are set aside for children with visual, hearing or mild cognitive disabilities, and children with type I diabetes.
Each program is geared to meet the goals and objectives of the camp for each camper on an individual basis. Participation is limited to residents of Wisconsin. Non-residents may apply, but will be accepted only on a space-available basis and charged a fee.
While safety and proper instruction are an important part of all camp activities, fun and enjoyment are the key elements that run throughout the total camp program. The program provides opportunities for children to grow in their interests, live and interact successfully with others and foster self-confidence and independence.
Typical camp activities include swimming, canoeing, sailing, paddle boating, inner tubing, kayaking, rowing, fishing, archery, crafts, nature programs, sports and games, overnight camping and cookouts, canoe trips, hiking trips, challenge courses and much more! All program activities are targeted to the child's abilities and are paced accordingly to provide each camper with a memorable experience at the Wisconsin Lions Camp.
General Eligibility Guidelines for Youth Campers Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria is invited to apply for camp attendance. Rules for acceptance and participation are the same for everyone without regard to race, religion, color, sex, disability or national origin. Due to the active nature of the program and a counselor to camper ratio of 1 to 6, the camp is unable to accommodate persons with severe emotional problems, serious physical or mental limitations or those who have a moderate or severe cognitive disability. Participation is limited to residents of Wisconsin or persons attending schools within the state; nonresidents on a space-available basis with a minimal fee.
Each camper that attends Wisconsin Lions Camp must be a resident of the State of Wisconsin or be attending school in the state of Wisconsin. All campers must be fully toilet-trained and independent in self-care skills. Campers must also be able to be socially and behaviorally managed by a 1 to 6 staff to camper ratio. Other specific eligibility guidelines for the different disabilities the camp serves are listed below. For questions concerning eligibility requirements, please e-mail the Wisconsin Lions Camp.
Blind and Visually Impaired Youth Children ages 6-17 are eligible if they require attendance in a special class or school for the visually impaired, or require special aids or instruction or need these services even if not taking advantage of them at present. Persons with vision in one eye are also eligible.
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth Children ages 6-17 are eligible if they require attendance in a special class or school for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, or require special aids or instruction or need these services even if not taking advantage of them at present.
Youth with Mild Cognitive Disabilities Children ages 9-17 are eligible if they are enrolled in a special class or program for the cognitively disabled and educationally functions as having a mild or borderline cognitive disability.
Youth with Type I and Type II Diabetes The camp partners with the American Diabetes Association to provide two one-week programs for children with diabetes ages 8-16. The Wisconsin Lions Camp provides the site, food service and program staff while the Diabetes Association handles registration and provides the health care, dietetic and professional support needed to run the program. For more information and an application, on this program contact: Nancy Tarantino at the American Diabetes Association 1-888-342-2383 ext.6531.
Adult Resort Program Along with camping programs for children, the Wisconsin Lions Camp has been providing outdoor recreational opportunities for adults with visual or hearing disabilities for many years. Geared as a resort program, adults have their choice of various activities and programs. A favorite pastime of many adult campers is the opportunity to visit with longtime friends who are never seen except for their week at camp. Nature hikes, pontoon rides, wagon rides, evening social events, crafts, canoeing, fishing and swimming are also popular activities. Equally enjoyed are sailing, overnight camping, and other special program events. The friendships, fun, new experiences and the natural beauty of the Wisconsin Lions Camp make the Adult Resort Program the highlight of the year for many.
General Eligibility Guidelines All adult campers must be a resident of the state of Wisconsin or attending school in the state of Wisconsin. Please note that the resort program does not provide counselor supervision, which requires our adults to be independent in self-care skills and daily living skills. Blind and Visually impaired or Deaf and Hard of Hearing persons 18 and over are eligible to attend. There is no nursing staff available for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing sessions.
