20 Years of Camp Hand in Hand

We just completed our 20th year of Camp Hand in Hand. Twenty years! Can you believe it? We have grown from a one-week summer camp into a successful nonprofit with over 15 year-round programs. Camp Hand in Hand was the program that started it all.

Founders Mark and Vinnie Smith and Dave and Joanie Steil wanted their children, and other children with disabilities, to have the same opportunities for fun, learning, and recreation as typically developing children. From that goal Camp Hand in Hand was formed. Since that first year, Camp Hand in Hand has continued to allow campers to enjoy all the typical camp activities including: horseback riding, archery, crafts, swimming, canoeing, and fishing. We rely on Camp “buddies” and our amazing staff to make it possible.

Over the last 20 years, Hand in Hand’s programs have expanded from serving 40 children that very first summer to supporting 750 participants and family members today. Hand in Hand‘s year-round programs include: integrated child care; after school programs; summer activities; evening and weekend programs such as Get Fit, our art program Inspiration Studio, and Teen Night; and People with Purpose, a volunteer program for those over 18.

These activities are not only fun and learning opportunities for our participants, but also provide vital support for the entire family at work and at home. We are tremendously grateful to the hundreds of volunteers, dedicated staff and generous donors who have joined together to create Hand in Hand! We couldn’t do it without you!