In June 2011, Blackford County Community Foundation partnered with Ball State University’s Immersive Learning Program and Blackford County Schools to sponsor a local summer day camp experience for Blackford County children and adolescents with physical and emotional challenges. This camp was the first of its kind in the county.
The camp allowed the young people to experience a wide variety of sports and art media they might not have encountered previously. Camp locations with similar services designed specifically for their needs are located at least forty-five minutes to an hour away. Camp activities included horseback riding, creative projects, photography, computer skills, and team building.
The thirteen young people, ages 8-18, participating in the camp expressed their wish that the camp could last a second week.
Many local residents contributed to the success of the 2011 camp. In addition to grants given by the Foundation and by Ball State’s Immersive Learning Program, additional funds were specifically donated to the camp by Jane Maddox and Carol (Fry) Young. The McCammon-Mackey Family Farm shared their horses, stable, arena, grounds, expertise for the week. Blackford County Schools donated food services and maintenance personnel in order to provide lunch, which was served by volunteers from the Nimble Neighbors Extension Homemakers Club. Local teachers Sally Linton, Kim Fear, Jennifer Wrestler, and John Adams (retired) provided knowledgeable support to the group of 13 Ball State undergraduates who planned and carried out the camp activities under the leadership of Dr. Ruth Jones, assistant professor of Special Education at Ball State and former Director of Special Education for Blackford County Schools.
The goal for future years is to expand the program to include more campers and more varied recreational options for eligible children. Plans are currently underway to provide this camp for a second year, June 4-8, 2012. Watch for more information at the start of the new year.
Click here to view a video about the June 2011 camp.
The Blackford County Community Foundation welcomes donations for the camp, either by check (Memo line labeled “High Riding Equestrian and Arts Day Camp”) mailed to
Blackford County Community Foundation
121 N. High Street
P.O. Box 327
Hartford City, IN 47348.
Or donate online by recording “High Riding Equestrian and Arts Day Camp” in the Purpose of Donation box.
Additional photos