An Unforgettable Summer
Adventure Camp is always a time for discovery, fun, and friendship, and this summer was no exception. For six weeks, campers play sports, create works of art, pet stingrays, ice skate, and so much more as they explore some of the St. Louis area’s best attractions.
At Adventure Camp, kids with special needs engage in fun activities with peers and try new experiences they may have never imagined before. Guided by a team of supportive, caring staff members and volunteers, campers share unforgettable moments in a setting that invites them to be their true selves.
Campers aren’t the only ones who go home with a big smile at the end of each day. Everyone involved in Adventure Camp leaves with a full heart and fun memories!
Variety Programs Director, Robin Diehl, explains that her favorite part of Camp is watching kids make friends and enjoy themselves. She especially loves watching new campers race to their counselors without hesitation, excited to start their next adventure together.
Adventure Camp takes place at a new location each day, keeping campers active and engaged in a wide range of exciting activities. Variety’s Senior Programs Coordinator, Renee Owens, helps make it all a reality. As a previous Camp Counselor, Renee enjoys being back for the first time since 2016.
“I love seeing former people I worked with back then, and I absolutely love creating new memories and bonds with new people,” explains Renee. “My overall favorite memory was seeing my previous camper become a camp counselor herself this year.”
Sarah Schwegel, once a Variety Kid herself, served as an Art Specialist this summer. She has loved getting to know all the kids and helping them dive into their creativity.
“One camper said his favorite activity was art out of all the activities we do, so that of course made me smile,” shares Sarah.
At the end of each day, Variety Kid Easton was exhausted but excited to share details of his adventures with his mom, Amber.
“All of the awesome activities he was exposed to and the incredibly wonderful staff made these weeks amazing for Easton,” notes Amber. “I even feel like his speech has improved!”
Variety programs aim to create lasting impact for kids and teens, empowering them with the tools to thrive in the classroom, at home, and in the community.
Thank you to all the families, staff, volunteers, partners, and our Programs Team for having yet another successful Adventure Camp!
Want to see photos from Adventure Camp? Check out our Flickr to scroll through the fun!