There is no WIFI at camp, but we guarantee you will find a better “KINECTION.”
CAMP DATES: AUGUST 11th-17th, 2024
It's what we are known for. Our summer camp program is a seven day, six night camp experience designed to bring siblings together and help them grow and strengthen their connections.
Campers' days are filled with fun and meaningful activities that give siblings the opportunity to experience new things together. Youth participate in recreational activities, together with their sibling in family groups.
By participating in activities together at camp, siblings provide each other with support – support that, at times, can only be given by a sibling. They encourage each other to overcome obstacles they might not otherwise find the strength or will to tackle, such as climbing a rock wall, canoeing, or riding a horse.
What does camp look like?
Mornings are spent doing traditional camp activities (archery, hiking, rock wall climbing, etc.)
Afternoon activities are focused on signature programming designed to help siblings connect
Evenings entail special themed events such as talent contests, carnivals, a birthday party and a special inspirational closing campfire ceremony
Signature Programming
Our signature programs have been designed to support and encourage siblings in creating special memories together and also to serve as intervention tools for sibling groups who are struggling to communicate with each other after lengthy separation. They foster open communication and subsequent healing between siblings whose relationship has been fragmented due to their separation.
Kin Pillows & Quilts
Siblings create special pillows for each other with written messages. The pillows are then exchanged between siblings during our Inspirational evening. Kin Pillows empower siblings to express themselves in a unique and heartfelt format.
Life Skills Enhancement
Campers, 14 years and older, are given the opportunity to participate in the Life Skills Enhancement. This program is designed to support teenagers and build the confidence they need to shape their futures.
Sibling “Kinection” Book
Each camper is provided a scrapbook, materials and printed photos of their week at camp allowing them to create a visual representation of their experiences and memories. This take-home keepsake is a place to write messages to one another and personal reflections on the week. For many, this scrapbook will contain invaluable childhood memories.
Carnival Night
One of our more popular theme nights, Carnival Night allows the siblings to enjoy carnival food and games…together. Campers have the opportunity to "dunk the counselors" and indulge themselves in cotton candy and snow cones!
Sibling Birthday Bash!
One evening is dedicated to a camp-wide birthday party where sibling groups celebrate with individual family birthday cakes and gift exchanges. The party serves to make up for missed opportunities to celebrate important life occasions together. Siblings choose gifts for one another, wrap them, and create birthday cards for their sibling.
Sibling Inspiration Night
Our Inspirational evening is an opportunity for campers to exchange meaningful and inspirational messages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can refer a camper?
Campers are referred by their caseworker, foster caregiver, adoptive parent, biological parents, kinship caretaker, guardian ad litem, or CASA worker.
What is the fee to attend camp?
Campers DO NOT pay to attend camp. However, it costs approximately $1,200.00 for each camper for the week. We rely heavily on our generous donors to make this possible. Rooted Kinections Inc. is committed to allowing all campers to attend. We recommend the use of recreational funds allotted to foster youth from county and local agencies to help cover costs via a camp scholarship. We also partner with other community organizations and work diligently throughout the year fundraising to provide campers with scholarships.
Who provides transportation to camp?
Campers are transported by bus (with chaperones) to camp. Parent/caregivers are responsible for transporting campers to/from the designated drop-off/pick-up location. Further details are discussed once a camper is registered for our program.
How many campers/counselors per cabin?
Traditionally, there are approximately 8-10 campers and 4-5 counselors in each cabin. All cabins are supervised at all times.
Can youth with special/extra needs attend?
We consider the needs of all campers to determine whether they can be successful for the week and work with the child’s caregivers and team to determine the youths ability to interact with other campers and siblings in a safe and appropriate manner.
Who is eligible to attend?
Siblings ages 8 to 18 who are currently navigating foster care, kinship, and/or adoption, and who have experienced sibling separation at some point. Campers must be capable of benefiting from a one-week residential experience with structured support. Most of all, they should enjoy outdoor and group activities and have the desire to spend time with their siblings.
Do siblings participate in activities together?
Yes! Siblings are grouped together to spend as much time together as possible while participating in activities that will enhance relationship-building.
What is the camper to counselor ratio?
There is one counselor for every two campers. In addition, we have our leadership staff, our host partner’s, and medical professionals.
How long is the camp program?
The week-long program is seven days and six nights.
What types of activities are held at camp?
Basic camp activities may include swimming, fishing, arts & crafts, horseback riding, archery, hiking and more. We also have special events like a carnival, talent shows, and a special sibling birthday bash for all campers. And of course, we also have campfires with s’mores.