Reimagining Camp Hope : A 60th Anniversary Celebration
Since 1956 , Camp Hope has provided more than 8,000 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities with an opportunity to experience traditional summer fun adapted to meet their needs . The Arc of Essex County used Camp Hope ’ s 60th Anniversary as a springboard to celebrate the traditions established over the years and reimagine the possibilities for the future .
True to its roots , Camp Hope combines life skills , social , and recreational activities with aquatics , sports , music , and the arts to help campers tackle new goals , build confidence , and form lasting friendships . With two separate programs , children from five to 21 years old enjoy a traditional camp experience while individuals 21 years and older can return for the Adult Camp Experience . Parents have peace of mind knowing Camp Hope provides an appropriate and stimulating environment .
As The Arc imagined the future of Camp Hope , increasing the number of engaging , interactive , and accessible-friendly play spaces became a top priority . In early 2016 an ambitious capital campaign , Create Play , launched to build upon capital improvements that began in 2011 with the addition of a zero-entry pool . The goal was to reimagine , reinvest in , and revitalize Camp Hope and the grounds that have been the background for countless memories . The identified recreational improvements included a new openair activity pavilion , an interactive and accessible playground , a splash pad aquatic feature , enhanced sports facilities , and general improvements to the camp ’ s buildings and landscaping .
Following an exciting and interactive Camp Hope Challenge Week in early June and prior to the start of camp in July , a new basketball court
Workers from the Township of East Hanover donate their time to install a new basketball court in June 2016 . With the addition of adjustable height backboards , the new court can provide years of fun for campers of various skill levels .
with adjustable height backboards was installed . Fundraising efforts and collaboration with the Township of East Hanover will continue through the remainder of 2016 with main phase construction beginning after the 2016 camp season .
The reimagined spaces will become a reality prior to the 2017 camp season and meet campers ’ needs for the next 60 years . Future generations will have the perfect backdrop for summers packed with joyful memories .
“ The Create Play capital campaign will enable The Arc of Essex County to further elevate the summer camping experience for years to come . These improvements will allow all campers to participate fully in an interactive and accessible-friendly environment , which has always been at the heart of Camp Hope . We are excited to unveil a reimagined Camp Hope in 2017 .”
- Heather Comstock , Senior Director , Development and Communication , The Arc of Essex County