Providence's Camp Prov recognized as refuge amid disability system
Summer is a time for fun, adventure, and exploration for many kids. They look forward to spending long days outdoors, playing games, making friends, and learning new skills. For children with disabilities, however, summer can be a challenging time, as they may face barriers to access and inclusion in many activities. That's why the Camp Prov summer camp program for kids with disabilities is such a valuable resource. The camp, which was recently featured in the Everett Herald, offers much-needed support and respite for families, who often struggle to find safe and affordable quality care options for their disabled and autistic children.
Amanda Zamara, who recently sat down with the Everett Herald, recounted her relief at being greeted by a huge smile on her 3-year-old son’s face after his first day and how much Camp Prov has meant to their family. “There are so many things that children with disabilities are excluded from in life,” says Zamara in the article. “Every child deserves that small slice of normalcy.”
What is Camp Prov?
Camp Prov is an integrated day camp for children with special needs and their siblings, aged 2-12 years. Camp is held at Forest Park in Everett, Wash. The staff consists of educators, activities specialists, speech language pathologists, occupational and physical therapists, and family resources coordinators.
Each camper is assigned a volunteer “buddy” who stays with the camper throughout the day and customizes activities according to the camper’s individual needs. The camp includes sensory play, nature activities, dance and movement, crafts, and a spray park. Since the camper’s “buddy” is by their side while at camp, kids can be kids regardless of their challenges.
Camp Prov's early days
Providence Children’s Center and Providence General Children’s Association
developed Camp Prov, a day camp for kids with special health care needs and their siblings, back in 1996. At that time there were few—if any—options for summer activities for these families.
“Parents couldn’t just call a babysitter or drop their child off at a day camp,” said Jim Phillips, former Providence Children’s Services manager to Everett Herald. “They needed programs to accommodate their child’s complex needs.” At first, Camp Prov took place in a staff member’s backyard with only a handful of kids. As demand grew, the camp moved to Forest Park in Everett, where it remains to this day.
Volunteer at Camp Prov
Volunteers ages 14 and up are assigned to each group to provide that special “buddy” experience by assisting and participating with campers through their scheduled day camp activities including: swimming, arts and crafts, sensory play, music, singing, signing, storytelling, nature activities and dance & movement. Volunteers work under the direction of their assigned unit leader and other camp staff.
See Camp Prov flyer for open application dates, and the weeks Camp Prov will be held. All new volunteers for Camp Prov and their parent or guardian will need to attend a mandatory new volunteer orientation. Returning volunteers do NOT need to attend orientation.
Donors make it possible
Camp Prov is possible thanks to the generosity of the community. It relies on donations to Providence General Children’s Association and Providence General Foundation to help keep it going. We’re especially thankful for donors who helped offset the additional costs of COVID protocols. If you’d like to contribute to this community treasure you can donate online. Thank you for making summer special for these children and families!
Providence Children’s Center Camp Prov 900 Pacific Ave Suite 130, Everett WA 98201 Phone: 425.258.7311 ext. 0 | FAX 425.258.7618 | Camp.Prov@providence.org
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Learn more about Camp Prov and find a physician
As students return to school this Fall, it’s time to schedule their annual check-ups. Whether you require an in-person visit or want to consult a doctor virtually, you have options. If you need any help or advice on how to schedule your health checks, or how to improve lifestyle habits, reach out to your primary care doctor, you can search for one who’s right for you in our physician directory. Through Providence Express Care Virtual, you can also access a full range of health care services. Information for patients and visitors
Related resources
Camp Prov, ‘a place of hope,’ is back for special-needs kids
Back to school: Vaccines and wellness checks
Providence Swedish experts in the media
This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care professional’s instructions.