Camp High Hopes: A Camp For The Disabled

By
Klem Web Team
-

(Sioux City) —  Many people may have fond memories dating back to when they were young and enjoyed their first camping experience.  But, for some people with challenging disabilities, camp was never a viable option.  That’s where Camp High Hopes of Sioux City is making a difference.  The area media was invited on Wednesday to tour the camp facilities, and was informed Camp High Hopes was created just a few years ago with the mission to offer that unique camping experience to those individuals with disabilities.  Ali Langseth serves as the Chief Executive Officer with Camp High Hopes.

 

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Langseth says the age range is from 4 years of age all the way to the mid-80’s. She says Camp High Hopes can even assist those individuals with chronic illnesses.

 

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Langseth says Camp High Hopes was founded by the individual that helped found a similar camp in eastern Iowa.

 

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With only three years of existence, Langseth says the camp has been fortunate to build a good reputation that has drawn campers from all across the nation.

 

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The camp C-E-O says Camp High Hopes adapts normal camping activities so everyone can participate and enjoy the activity.

 

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One unique feature at Camp High Hopes is the use of small animals as part of its therapeutic programs. Langseth says the experience stays with the individual long after the camp is over.

 

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Langseth says she hears reports about how the small animal program helps the individual’s behavior improve, provides for a positive attitude, and helps them become more independent.  Many camps are equipped with a first aid kit, but at Camp High Hopes, they go way beyond the bandage.

 

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The camp director says Camp High Hopes can even perform medical treatments during the time of the camping activity.

 

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Its obvious Camp High Hopes has plans to continue to build additional facilities and to expand its services.  Because of the expansion plans, Langseth says fundraising is an on-going process, and camp officials are preparing for their next major fundraising event.  She says in addition to building facilities, money is also used to help keep camp costs affordable for families.

 

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Langseth talks about the “Master Site Plan” for Camp High Hopes as it intends to grow from its present $5 million facility to a $20 million complete campground.

 

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Ribfest, scheduled for late June, is one of two major fundraising events that benefits Camp High Hopes.

 

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Saturday, June 27th will be the next Ribfest, with the hopes of raising at least $50,000. The Tyson Events Center’s parking lot in Sioux City is hosting the event between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.  For additional information about Camp High Hopes go to their website at www.camphighhopes.com

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