Celebrating Inclusivity: Kamp for Kids Welcomes Families with Open Arms

Westfield, MA - Kamp for Kids, a beloved summer camp, recently held its 49th annual Welcome Day, marking the start of another season of inclusive fun and personal growth. The event was a testament to the camp's unwavering commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children and young adults of all abilities.

Fostering Inclusion and Empowering Individuals

A Legacy of Advocacy and Inclusion

Kamp for Kids was founded nearly 50 years ago by Westfield resident and mother Judy Hoyt, who envisioned a place where her children of different abilities could attend the same camp together. Hoyt's advocacy for inclusion extended beyond her own family, as she played a pivotal role in the passage of Massachusetts' Chapter 766 law in 1972, which served as a model for the first federal special education law. This landmark legislation required local school systems to educate every student in their community and to fund appropriate educational costs, paving the way for greater accessibility and opportunities for individuals with diverse needs.

A Thriving Summer Tradition

Today, Kamp for Kids continues to thrive, offering three two-week sessions each summer for campers aged 5 to 19. This year, the camp will welcome approximately 85 individuals, many of whom will attend for two sessions. The camp's success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its staff, including longtime counselor Dawn Audet and current Camp Director Luis Burgos, who first joined the camp as a counselor himself.

A Collaborative Effort

Kamp for Kids is funded through a collaborative effort between the state Department of Developmental Services, the nonprofit Behavioral Health Network, which oversees the camp's operations, and private donors. This partnership has allowed the camp to continuously evolve and meet the needs of the community, with retired social worker Roger Anderson noting that "one of the best things that DDS and BHN have done together is learn from each other."

Empowering the Next Generation

The camp's impact extends beyond the campers themselves, as it has also served as a valuable workforce development opportunity for the human services industry. Over the years, Kamp for Kids has provided internships and introductions to the field, helping to cultivate future leaders. Camp Director Luis Burgos is a prime example, having started as a counselor and later graduating from Westfield State University, before taking on his current role.

Celebrating Creativity and Talent

During the Welcome Day event, campers had the opportunity to showcase their talents and interests, from telling jokes to performing music. Camper Vinnie Charland delighted the audience with a country song on his acoustic guitar, while Ryan Thomas jammed on electric guitar to a heavy metal tune. These moments of artistic expression and shared joy were a testament to the camp's ability to foster a sense of community and empower its participants.

A Shared Commitment to Inclusion

The Welcome Day event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including state Senator John Velis and state Representative Kelly Pease, who expressed their unwavering support for the camp's mission. Velis acknowledged the invaluable contributions of Program Director Anne Benoit, while Pease engaged with the campers, learning about their favorite aspects of the camp, such as the art program.As the 50th anniversary of Kamp for Kids approaches in 2025, the camp's legacy of inclusion and empowerment continues to inspire. Through its collaborative efforts, dedicated staff, and the boundless creativity and talent of its participants, Kamp for Kids remains a shining example of how a shared commitment to diversity and acceptance can transform lives and strengthen communities.