True Friends 2017 Camp Catalog by True Friends Can

2017 CAMP CATALOG

OPEN FOR ALL

Another exciting year of camping with True Friends is upon us! From stories by the campfire to trips down the zip line, repeat-after-me songs to hanging out in one of our sensory rooms, this summer is gearing up to be a wonderful mix of camp classics and new adventures. We are ever expanding, improving and adding new elements to our strong heritage of programs. This summer weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re excited to see campers take full advantage of our new fully accessible high ropes course, try out our shooting sports activities and ranges, and explore our local communities on day trips alongside our classic camp elements such as tubing, arts and crafts, and endless hours on the waterfront. Our high quality, compassionate and energetic staff members provide the utmost attention and care, creating a fun, safe and truly transformational environment for all involved. At the center of everything we do at True Friends lies our mission. We are so grateful to have the chance to provide you, your family, and the community with life changing experiences that enhance independence and self-esteem for children and adults with disabilities. Whether you join us as a family, an individual or entrust us with your loved ones, we eagerly anticipate serving you well. Sincerely,

Ed Stracke , President & CEO

OPEN

HOUSE

Take a tour, experience camp activities, chat with staff and see first-hand why we love camp so much. If you are unavailable on these dates, please contact 952.852.0110 to schedule a private tour. CAMP COURAGE

CAMP EDEN WOOD

May 21 | 1-3PM

May 7 | 1-3PM

CAMP FRIENDSHIP

CAMP COURAGE NORTH

May 21 | 2-4PM 2

RSVP: 952.852.0110 x6 May 14 | 1-3PM

CONTENT 4

Camp Courage Sessions

Camp Friendship Sessions

KEY Developmental Disability Programs

12 Weekend Respite 13 Camp Eden Wood 14 Adventure Trip Programs

Physical Disability Programs

16 Note from Our Director 17 Camp Courage North Sessions

Partner Camps and other Programs

19 Registration & FAQ’S

About True Friends We welcome individuals ages 5+ with and without diagnosed disabilities, including developmental or physical disabilities or health conditions. Programs we off include: summer and winter camp, day camp, respite weekends, wilderness trips, national and international travel, therapeutic riding, team building and volunteer and youth leadership development. We also partner with other disability and health organizations to host their camp sessions at our sites. Care ratios and session costs are based on care needs. Often staff-to-camper ratios in a camp setting differ from daily living care ratios. If you’d like help determining your care ratio, please refer to our care ratio guidelines below or contact our staff. High Care Support: 1:1 • May have frequent verbal or physical outbursts that require staff intervention • May be unable to communicate needs • May have trouble participating in a group setting or display inappropriate behaviors • May need extensive support with medical care needs • Needs”eyes on” supervision during awake hours • Uses manual wheelchair and needs staff support to propel outside buildings • May need total support with activities of daily living

Medium Care Support: 1:3 • May have occasional verbal or physical outbursts that require staff intervention • May have trouble with large social environments, but does well in small groups • May need some support with medical care needs • May need verbal support with activities of daily living • Easily accepts support from staff

Low Care Support: 1:5 • Can respond well to new and unfamiliar situations • Can enjoy group settings • Are independent with activities of daily living • Easily communicates wants and needs • Easily accepts support from staff Important note: True Friends made the difficult decision to return our 245D license due to the increase in 245D regulations. Therefore, we are unable to accept payments from 245D licensed waivers such as CADI (Community Access for Disability Inclusion), CAC (Community Alternative Care), DD (Developmental Disabilities) and TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) without Case Manager’s written consent beginning December 12th 2016.

COURAGE

camp

COU R

CAMP COURAGE has 305 acres along scenic lakeshore, woods and fields near Maple Lake, MN on beautiful Cedar Lake. It has two accessible campuses: Lakeside and Woodland. Collectively the campuses include arts & crafts buildings, recreation halls, outdoor shooting ranges, nature buildings & a network of hiking trails, gymnasium & indoor pool, indoor bouldering wall and a brand new fully accessible ropes course, double zip line and more. Camp Courage is also home to the indoor arena housing the True Strides therapeutic horseback riding program.

AGE

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PROGRAMS

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MN SUMMER SPORTS CAMP

POWER SOCCER FAMILY CAMP

SOMN Camp is a collaboration between Special Olympics of Minnesota and True Fiends. This camp is designed for Special Olympic Athletes to have a sports focus within a traditional summer camp experience. During the AM sessions campers will attend a sports focus area to enhance their skills in one of the following areas: Bocce Ball, Basketball, Flag Football, and Poly Hockey. The rest of the day is a traditional summer camp with all the excitement that comes with camp: tie-dye, archery, waterfront, fishing, etc.

This program operates once during the summer and once in the fall, in partnership with the Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute Sports and Recreation Department. Enjoy six days of power soccer training and summer camp fun. Top U.S. Power Soccer Association coaches and players will teach players of any skill level the latest drills and training. To apply, contact Taavasa.Mamea@ allina.com, Office: 612.775.2279 Cell: 763.229.7832. You must provide your own direct care support.

Camp Courage Programs Con’t

PATHFINDERS

GLUTEN FREE KIDS CAMP

Pathfinders Adult Retreat is facilitated with the belief that everyone deserves an opportunity to discover their true self and find meaningful relationships with others. This retreat provides a unique experience to participate in leadership workshops, adventure courses and camp activities in a samegender environment. The goal is to create life-changing experiences that leave our participants wanting more out of life.

Sponsored by Raising Our Celiac Kids, Twin Cities and many generous food donors, this gluten-free camp session offers all of the joys of classic camp with an entirely gluten-free menu. Food is made in a safe and dedicated gluten-free kitchen. Children diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten intolerance are encouraged to attend this program where they can make new friends in an environment free of worry. To apply, contact Katie Radeke at camprockmom@gmail.com or visit www. twincitiesrock.org

Upgrade your Adult Retreat stay with True Strides Campers have the opportunity to upgrade their stay and experience what it’s like to brush, feed and ride one of our beautiful horses. Enhance confidence, self-esteem, communication and social skills, plus have fun! Riding and steering the horse encourages concentration, focus and motor planning. The gentle rhythmic rocking calms sensory challenges.

CAMP CAMBRIA Join the Arthritis Foundation’s annual Camp Cambria for youth with juvenile arthritis or related conditions. Emphasis is placed on involvement in activities the camper may not otherwise experience. Learn more at CampCambria.org. To apply, contact Lindsey Kumlien at 651.229.5378 or lkumlien@arthritis.org

CAMP ADVENTURE A place for youth with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), high ability autism and fetal alcohol syndrome to have fun, meet new friends and grow in their understanding of self and others. Each morning campers take part in team-building workshops that focus on self-confidence, positive interaction and independence. In the afternoon, they put learned values into practice through various activities. Campers attending this session will be staffed at a 1:3 ratio.

FAMILY CAMP Families rave about the stress-free environment they experience at family camp. Being surrounded by families similar to theirs, and having the support of caring staff members takes away vacation anxieties. If you’d like to connect with a family who has attended camp before, call our staff at 952.852.0110 x7. Bring the family and leave with many new memories! This program operates once during the summer and once in the fall, annually.

This camp experience is perfect for campers who enjoy rekindling old friendships and creating new ones. Customize your vacation by choosing activities that challenge and interest you. Explore hiking trails, the accessible challenge course and zip-line, swimming pool, tubing, fishing, casino night, live music night – it’s all part of the adventure.

ADULT RETREAT

IE N C

E NEW AD

N VE

Camp Courage Programs Con’t

CAMP VIP (VICTORY IN PROGRESS)

ASPERGER’S CAMP

This session is designed especially for youth with cancer or a blood disorder, as well as their siblings. Campfires, hiking, fishing, swimming, art projects, cookouts and group games are provided in a safe environment, with pediatric cancer and blood disorders staff on site full-time. Adventurous campers can try tubing, archery and the zip line! This camp is a partnership of Children’s Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota and True Friends. Campers in this program will be staffed at a 1:8 care ratio.

This structured program for campers with autism spectrum disorder will focus on social skill learning and development. Campers will learn leadership skills and have the opportunity to develop friendships. Campers build confidence with leadership development and social interactions among other campers facing similar challenges.

CAMP WE-NO-WHEEZE

Camp We-No Wheeze is for youth with moderate to severe asthma problems. Camp is packed with swimming and playing games, cooking out under the stars, sleeping in tents, participating in arts and crafts, boating and other water sports. Campers are on daily asthma medications. The difference in our camp is the campers here do it all under 24-hour watchful eyes of more than 40 volunteers and staff, trained to educate and assist kids with asthma problems. For question and to apply, contact Shannon Ficker at shanifick@gmail.com or 320.654.8266

w e n e k a m S D N E I FR

CAMP COURAGE 8046 83rd St. NW, Maple Lake, MN 55358

DATES

SESSION

CAMP NAME

AGES

TYPE

HIGH

MEDIUM

LOW

1:1

1:3

1:5

Special Olympics MN Summer Sports Camp

14+

$990

$730

$475

802T

Adult Retreat

18+

$1700

$1300

$860

July 5-10

803T

Adult Retreat with True Strides

18+

$2050

$1650

$1210

July 5-14

804T

Adult Retreat

18+

$2835

$2165

$1435

July 5-14

805T

Adult Retreat with True Strides

18+

$3335

$2665

$1935

Gluten Free Fun Camp

7-17

June 6-9

801

July 5-10

July 16-21

To apply, contact Katie Radeke: camprockmom@gmail.com or visit twincitiesrock.org

July 23-28

806T

Camp Adventure

6 - 17

$1300

July 23-28

807

Pathfinders – Male

21-26

$995

July 23-28

808

Pathfinders – Female

21-26

$995

Camp Cambria

8-17

To apply, contact Lindsey Kumlien: lkumlien@arthritis.org or call 651.229.5378

Summer Family Camp

All ages

$510/person. 5 & under free.

Power Soccer Family Camp

All ages

To apply, contact Taavasa. Mamea@allina.com or call 612.775.2279

7-17

$25 deposit required.

July 28-Aug 4 Aug 6 - 11

809

Aug 6-11 Aug 14-18

810T

Aug 15-18

811

Aug 19 -21 Oct 27-29

Camp VIP (Victory in Progress) Asperger’s Camp Camp We-No-Wheeze

812

Fall Family Camp

16-20

$1135

$865

$575

7-13

To apply, contact Shannon Ficker: shanifick@gmail.com or call 320.654.8266

All ages

$130/person. 5 & under free.

FRIENDSHIP CAMP FRIENDSHIP is located on 115 acres of scenic woodlands on Clearwater Lake just 60 miles northwest of the Twin Cities near Annandale, MN. This accessible camp offers modern cabins and facilities, dining hall, arts and crafts building, recreation hall, nature building, gymnasium, indoor pool, indoor and outdoor climbing walls, ropes course and more.

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PROGRAMS CLASSIC CAMP Campers enjoy outdoor and lakefront activities, hikes, campfires and cabin living. Meet new people and make friends with other campers and counselors while experiencing the best nature has to offer. Our staff thoughtfully select cabin groups based on ages and gender and staff provide personal cares and assistance as needed.

ADULT RETREAT SELF ADVOCACY Campers learn how to be a selfadvocate and ways to successfully navigate the world to get what they want and desire out of life. Self-advocates and leaders will empower campers to be more confident and influential. Campers get to design their activities schedule to have a fun and informative week.

Camp Friendship Programs Con’t

HORSING AROUND WITH TRUE STRIDES Traditional camp with equine experiences. Come experience True Strides at our state-of-the-art equine facility. Participate in English, western and bareback riding as well as mounted excursions on one of our winding trails. Riders will be educated in grooming, feeding and saddling their equine partners. Riders will be encouraged to participate in barrel racing and jumping while learning the basic techniques for these events. Leave with fond memories, new skills, new friends and a renewed self-confidence. Horsing Around is modified to meet the needs of each individual’s abilities behaviorally, physically and socially.

CAMP enVISION The enVISION program is designed for individuals with learning disabilities and communication/social disorders to enhance workplace skills and readiness. Explore the outdoors and work as a team to support each other as you make steps on your job path. The first week of the session allows for independence at camp and learning about skills employers look for. The second week puts these skills to use within a True Friends department of your choice. Each participant leaves with a formal letter of recommendation for their employment portfolio.

MOVIN’ AND GROOVIN’ Dance, dance, dance! Learn new dances and brush up on your moves. This session is for music lovers looking to practice creativity, balance and an active lifestyle through dance and movement. Dance instruction is a focus of the day with opportunities for other classic camp activities.

LITERACY CAMP This unique session is for struggling readers, from beginners to those several years behind grade level. Campers enjoy recreational activities and work with educators on fun, literacy activities. The session is directed by national literacy experts, Drs. David Koppenhaver and Karen Erickson. Informal descriptive reports of literacy assessments and interventions are provided to families of campers to share with their schools. Campers should know most alphabet letters, be engaged during shared reading, and have a means to communicate, which could be Alternative Augmentative Communication. Learn more by visiting: mnliteracycamp.weebly.com

YOUTH RETREAT / YOUTH RETREAT WITH TRUE STRIDES This camp experience is perfect for campers who enjoy rekindling old friendships, and creating new ones. Customize your experience by choosing activities that challenge and interest you. Explore hiking trails, the accessible zip-line, swimming pool, tubing, fishing, music night – it’s all part of the adventure. Upgrade your Adult Retreat stay with True Strides Campers have the opportunity to upgrade their stay and experience what it’s like to brush, feed and ride one of our beautiful horses. Enhance confidence, self-esteem, communication and social skills, plus have fun! Riding and steering the horse encourages concentration, focus and motor planning. The gentle rhythmic rocking calms sensory challenges.

Camp Friendship Programs Con’t

FISHING CAMP

ADULT RETREAT

Cast your troubles away and reel in a great experience at our fishing session. Explore everything Minnesota lakes have to offer. Land your catch from a pontoon or dock, then learn how to clean and cook fish. Also learn strategies, species identification, boat safety, knot-tying and more! Bait, tackle and fishing poles provided, but feel free to bring your own.

This camp experience is perfect for campers who enjoy rekindling old friendships, and creating new ones. Customize your experience by choosing activities that challenge and interest you. Explore hiking trails, the accessible zip-line, swimming pool, tubing, fishing, music night – it’s all part of the adventure.

ASPERGER’S CAMP This structured program for campers with autism spectrum disorder will focus on social skill learning and development. Campers practice asking to join activities, trying something new, sharing and taking turns while participating in traditional camp activities. This program is operated in partnership with ANSWER - aspergersmn.org.

CAMP FRIENDSHIP 10509 108th St. NW, Annandale, MN 55302

HIGH

MEDIUM

LOW

$1700

$1300

Horsing Around with True Strides

18+

$2050

$1650

203

Classic Camp

$1700

$1300

June 11-16

204

Adult Retreat - Self Advocacy

18+

$860

June 11-23

205

Camp enVISION

16-22

$1320

June 18-23

206

Literacy Camp

12-18

$1700

$1300

$860

June 18-23

207

Fishing Camp

$1700

$1300

$860

June 25-30

208T

Classic Camp

$1700

$1300

June 25-30

209T

Adult Retreat with True Strides

18+

$1210

June 25-July 3

210T

Adult Retreat with True Strides

18+

$1640

June 25-July 3

211T

Adult Retreat

18+

$1290

June 25-July 3

212T

Classic Camp

$2550

$1950

July 9-14

213

Classic Camp

$1700

$1300

July 9-14

214

Movin’ and Groovin’

$1700

$1300

$860

July 16-28

215

Camp enVISION

16-22

$1320

July 16-21

216

Classic Camp

$1700

$1300

July 23-28

217T

Classic Camp

$1700

$1300

July 23-28

218T

Horsing Around with True Strides

7-17

$2050

$1650

July 30-Aug 4

219

Classic Camp

$1700

$1300

July 30-Aug 4

220

Youth Retreat

7-17

$1300

$860

July 30-Aug 4

221

Youth Retreat with True Strides

7-17

$1650

$1210

Aug 6-11

222

Classic Camp

$1700

$1300

Aug 6-11

223

Youth Asperger’s Camp

7-15

$1300

$860

Aug 13-17

224

Classic Camp

$1415

$1085

Aug 13-17

225

Adult Retreat

18+

$715

Aug 13-17

226

Adult Retreat with True Strides

18+

$1060

DATES

SESSION

CAMP NAME

AGES

June 4-9

201

Classic Camp

June 4-9

202

June 11-16

TYPE

1:1

1:3

1:5

D N E T EX

weekend RESPITE Sign up for a weekend respite session at Camp Friendship or Camp Eden Wood and add a few days to your camp stay!

FRIENDSHIP CAMPAnnandale DATES

SESSION

WEEKEND THEME

410.17

Movies

June 16-18

411.17

Sports & Games

June 23-25

412.17

Science

June 9-11

CAMP EDEN WOOD DATES

SESSION

WEEKEND THEME

610.17

Movies

June 23-25

611.17

Sports & Games

July 7-9

612.17

Science

June 9-11

July 7-9

413.17

Art

July 14-16

613.17

Art

July 14-16

414.17

Music

July 21-23

614.17

Music

July 21-23

415.17

Movies

July 28-30

615.17

Movies

July 28-30

416.17

Sports & Games

Aug 4-6

616.17

Sports & Games

Aug 4-6

417.17

Science

Aug 11-13

617.17

Science

Aug 11-13

418.17

Art

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE? Individuals ages five and up with intellectual, developmental and/or physical disabilities. We offer services at 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4 and higher care ratios. All applicants are screened by our respite department for appropriate placement.

CHECK-IN / OUT SCHEDULE, RATES AND PAYMENT OPTIONS Check-in Friday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Check-out Sunday from 12-12:30 p.m. The respite rate is $756 per respite weekend. Waiver payments from Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS), county pay funds, and private payments are accepted. Please contact our office and ask for respite Registration for assistance. Camping staff will provide care and assist the camper with the transition between check-in/out of camp and respite. Please note, extending your stay with respite is only possible at the same location youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re attending for camp.

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N E D E

D O O W

EDEN WOOD

CAMP EDEN WOOD is an accessible camp tucked in the woods on Birch Island Lake just west of where I-494 meets Highway 62 in Eden Prairie, MN. Campers enjoy the hiking trails, basketball court, playground, indoor sensory rooms, recreation center, outdoor ropes course, popular day activities, local attractions, and numerous other activities.

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PROGRAMS INTRO TO CAMP

ADULT CLASSIC CAMP

If you or your camper isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ready for five nights of fun in the Minnesota sun, come and experience the magic of camp with this two night introduction. In this short time at Camp Eden Wood, you will get to try our high ropes course, play on our playground, and take a day trip!!

Adult campers enjoy outdoor activities, hikes, campfires, day trips into the community and cabin living. Meet new people and make friends with other campers and counselors while experiencing the best nature has to offer. Our staff thoughtfully select cabin groups based on ages and gender and staff provide personal cares and assistance as needed. 13

Camp Eden Wood Programs Con’t

AUTISM SENSORY SPLASH Geared for campers on the autism spectrum, with a high level of transition support between activities. Days are filled with visual supports, sensory breaks and structured activity periods. One-to-one staffing provides flexibility to campers so they can make activity choices that meet their individual tastes and take breaks as needed. More independent campers, with a 1:3+ staffing ratio, try new things at their own pace. This session serves a wide range of autism spectrum disorders, sensory processing disorders and profound cognitive disabilities.

DESTINATION SMILE Participate in camp activities and foster friendships within the Down Syndrome community. From high ropes to arts and crafts, archery to swimming, trips to the museum to talent shows, this week is filled to the brim with fun and adventure.

SIBLING, COUSIN AND FRIEND CAMP Time to make camp a family affair! This week, siblings, cousins and friends are encouraged to experience the power of camp. Camp will be packed with something for everyone, from archery and high ropes to arts and crafts and visits to the pool and lakes! Staff members provide personal cares and assistance as needed.

DAY CAMP All ages and ability levels can experience action-packed days of outdoor experiences, creative outlets, peer interactions and traditional camp activities. Sessions run Monday - Friday from 8:30am - 5:30pm. Lunch is provided. It’s a great way to sample the camp experience.

find

CAMP ADVENTURE TRIPS

ADVENTURE

Adventure is out there and our trips will bring campers right into the thick of it. Power-packed camping trips focus on meeting the needs of youth with with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other academic and/or social skill difficulties. Led by a trained wilderness guide who promotes independence and growth, these trips foster friendships, build skills, raise adrenaline and enhance confidence through exploration of the great outdoors. Campers can explore Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area, the wondrous North Shore, Wisconsin’s Apostle Island or South Dakota’s Bad Lands. Trips depart from Camp Eden Wood. DATES

SESSION

CAMP NAME

AGES

TYPE

HIGH

MEDIUM

LOW

1:1

1:3

1:5

June 18-23

721

Camp Adventure Trip (Bad Lands/South Dakota)

10-16

$1300

$860

July 9-14

722

Camp Adventure Trip (Apostle Island)

10-16

$1300

$860

July 23-28

723

Camp Adventure Trip (BWCA)

13-17

$1300

$860

Aug 6-11

724

Camp Adventure Trip (MN North Shore)

10-16

$1300

$860

CAMP EDEN WOOD 6350 Indian Chief Rd., Eden Prairie, MN 55346

HIGH

MEDIUM

LOW

5-18

$850

$650

$430

Adult Classic Camp

18+

$1700

$1300

$860

703

Adult Classic Camp

18+

$1700

$1300

$860

July 5-7

704

Intro to Camp

5-18

$850

$650

$430

July 9-14

705

Autism Sensory Splash

5-20

$1700

$1300

$860

July 16-21

706

Autism Sensory Splash

5-20

$1700

$1300

$860

July 23-28

707

Destination Smile

5-18

$1700

$1300

$860

July 30-Aug 4

708

Sibling, cousin and friend camp

5-18

$1700

$1300

$860

Aug 6-11

709

Sibling, cousin and friend camp

5-18

$1700

$1300

$860

HIGH

MEDIUM

LOW

DATES

SESSION

CAMP NAME

AGES

June 11-13

701

Intro to Camp

June 18-23

702

June 25-30

DATES

SESSION

CAMP NAME

AGES

TYPE

1:1

1:3

1:5

June 12-13

701DC

Camp Intro to Day Camp

$300

$215

June 19-23

702DC

Day Camp

$745

$535

June 26-30

703DC

Day Camp

$745

$535

July 5-7

704DC

Intro to Day Camp

$300

$215

July 10-14

705DC

Day Camp

$745

$535

July 17-21

706DC

Day Camp

$745

$535

860

July 24-28

707DC

Day Camp

$745

$535

860

July 31-Aug 4

708DC

Day Camp

$745

$535

860

Aug 7-11

709DC

Day Camp

$745

$535

naline a’s ta’s

1:5

860

Campers who do not require 1:1 staffing will be served at the 1:3 ratio

A Note from OUR DIRECTOR Thank you for your interest in our camping programs! We are humbled by the opportunity to provide life-changing experiences to everyone who joins the adventures at our camps. True Friends has a respected 60+ year legacy in providing the highest quality of care and programs to individuals with disabilities. Today, we’re privileged to be Minnesota’s largest special needs camping agency. With this in mind, we are faced with some difficult decisions to ensure we don’t lose focus on our core mission and strengths. As a result, two significant changes are being made for our 2017 programs. In 2013, True Friends created a pilot program to offer transportation for campers from the Twin Cities to our four locations for all summer camps. After receiving extensive feedback from caregivers, campers, and staff, we made the decision to reduce the number of programs for which we offer transportation. The programs for which transportation will be offered in 2017 have a “T” included after the session number in the program grids in this catalog. As before, transportation numbers will be limited per session. In 2014, we chose to apply for and maintain a State Statute 245D license through the Department of Human Services. True Friends has made the difficult decision to end our 245D licensure effective December 12, 2016. Thus, we are no longer able to accept payments from 245D licensed waivers without written Case Manager’s consent. This includes, but is not limited to, the following waivers: CADI (Community Access for Disability Inclusion), CAC (Community Alternative Care), DD (Developmental Disabilities), and TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury). To provide further understanding, allow me to provide some context as to why this decision was made. The 245D regulations were created and designed for service models that provide longterm residential and day / habilitation programs, unlike True Friends programs. Our services, provide short-term opportunities for individuals, and we have come to realize that True Friends is not a good fit for this type of licensure. We understand this change may alter your financial plans as you register for camp. Please know the generosity of our donors keep our scholarship and financial aid options available and accessible to many. Keeping these changes in mind, get excited and start looking at those summer calendars! Online registration for 2017 camping programs will open in the first week of January 2017. As we move into a fun-filled summer season, we trust that these decisions will strengthen our services to our valued clients. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we look back with courage, while moving forward with joy and spirit. In Friendship,

Conor S. McGrath, MPA

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COURAGE NORTH CAMP COURAGE NORTH is located in the beautiful historic Paul Bunyan State Forest area near Itasca State Park situated on Lake George, MN. This accessible camp adds that “up north” feeling to everything you do – and if you like the outdoors, there’s a lot you can do including archery, fishing, biking, boating, low-ropes course and nature hikes.

CO URA GE NO RTH

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PROGRAMS CAMP DISCOVERY 1 & 2 In partnership with Autism Society of MN (AuSM), Camp Discovery is ideal for youth with autism spectrum disorder who will enjoy a summer camp experience with a high degree of structure and small group activities. Campers should be able to positively interact and safely participate within small groups. Campers in this program will be staffed at a 1:4 care ratio. Campers will be grouped into 8-person cabins with bathrooms, according to age, gender, and interests. Campers enjoy their meals in a dining hall or on an outdoor deck. Camp activities include: swimming, kayaking, canoeing, hiking in Itasca State Park, arts and crafts, nature experiences, recreational games, live action role play (LARPing) and more. Camp Discovery also includes special events like a carnival, movie night and music fest. Campers also participate in small group discussions and activities that focus on special interests and making a connection with others.

NORTHERN LIGHTS, DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING CAMP This program offers youth who are Deaf, hard of hearing or a Child of a Deaf Adult (CODA), the chance to experience all the fun of camp with the support of mentors and interpreters from the Deaf and hard of hearing community. Campers who like a fast pace and are socially motivated will excel in this environment. Campers will have the chance to develop pride and friendships that will last a lifetime!

BRAIN GAINS This session is designed for adults with mild to moderate brain injuries. Have fun while attending groups led by skilled therapists from Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute. Work on memory, time management, problemsolving strategies, coping and social skills. Campers also enjoy traditional camp and outdoor activities while increasing social and cognitive skills.

To apply, contact Terri B., Director of AuSM Camp Programs, 651.647.1083 x16 or camp@ausm.org 17

Camp Courage North Programs Conâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

WATER SPORTS AND FISHING CAMP

HEMOPHILIA EXTREME EXPEDITION

In addition to all of the other great activities available at camp, this session emphasizes whole-body wellness and fun through water sports and fishing. Whether you want to go tubing, canoeing, swimming in the lake, kayaking or just spend your days reeling in sunfish and walleye, this is the session for you. All experience levels are welcome. This program has separate youth and adult sessions available.

Campers push their boundaries on this extreme adventure by canoeing, hiking and camping through the North Woods of Minnesota. Campers must be able to tolerate 3-hour canoe rides and 45-minute hikes. A medical professional specializing in hemophilia will accompany the excursion.

HEMOPHILIA CAMP For youth with hemophilia and other related bleeding disorders. Take advantage of safe facilities and the great outdoors. Campers have multiple opportunities for developing leadership skills. To apply, contact the Hemophilia Foundation of Minnesota and the Dakotas (HFMD) at 651-406-8655 or info@hfmd.org. Consider extending the fun by adding the extreme expedition to your experience!

Spend your days exploring and your nights bonding around a campfire. Campers must attend the previous week of Hemophilia Camp to go on this trip. Contact the Hemophilia Foundation of Minnesota and the Dakotas (HFMD) at 651-406-8655 or info@hfmd.org

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CAMP COURAGE NORTH 37569 Courage North Dr., Lake George, MN 56458

DATES June 11-16

SESSION

CAMP NAME

AGES

901

Adult Retreat

18+

June 18-23

Camp Discovery 1

10-17

June 25-30

Camp Discovery 2

18-25

July 9-14

Hemophilia Camp

7-17

Hemophilia Extreme Expedition

13-17

July 14-18

TYPE

HIGH

MEDIUM

LOW

$1700

$1300

$860

1:1

1:3

1:5

To apply, contact the Autism Society of MN at 651.647.1083 To apply, contact the Hemophilia Foundation of Minnesota and the Dakotas (HFMD) at 651.406.8655

July 16-21

902

Brain Gains

18+

$1700

$1300

$860

July 23-28

903

Adult Water Sports and Fishing Camp

18+

$1300

$860

July 30-Aug 4

904

Youth Water Sports and Fishing Camp

7-17

$1300

$860

Aug 6-11

905T

Northern Lights Deaf and Hard of Hearing Camp

7-17

$1300

$860

Registration and Financial Registration Steps: 1. Choose your session. 2. Apply Online: truefriends.org/camp. Returning campers from 2014+, check your email for log-in instructions. Please enter the camper’s name exactly as it appeared on the paper application to match our records and update your existing information. If you need instructions to apply online, visit the link above. OR Apply Via US mail: Download the camper application from truefriends. org/forms or call to request a paper copy. Mail your form and deposit to True Friends, 10509 108th St NW Annandale, MN 55302 (you may email the form to registration@truefriends.org) 3. Review your confirmation packet when it arrives. It will be sent via mail or email within three weeks of receiving your completed application and deposit. A deposit is required for each session. Deposits will be applied toward the total cost. Jan - Mar 31: $300 | Apr 1 - May 15: $400 | After May 15: $500

Online Application: After you get your confirmation packet, call the True Friends office with credit card information or mail a check or money order to our office. Paper Application: Mail a check or money order with your application and complete the credit card information page of the application. Financial Assistance: With the support of donors, we are able to provide financial assistance to participants with proven need. To request aid, the financial assistance portion of the application must be completed and submitted with the application. Individuals using waivered funds or Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS) can use those funds for camp. Contact us and your social worker / case worker. Cancellation Policy: All advanced fees paid will be refunded in full if notice is received in the True Friends office 30 days prior to the applicants’ session. If less than 30 days’ notice is received, all but the registration deposit will be refunded.

10509 108TH ST NW Annandale MN 55302 | 952.852.0101 | registration@truefriends.org

To provide life-changing experiences that enhance independence and self-esteem for children and adults with disabilities. apply online

truefriends.org/camp

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VOLUN T

EER

truefriends.org/volunteer

truefriends.org | 800.450.8376

TRUE FRIENDS CAN