2011 Camp Oasis dates are here!

CAMP OASIS WILL BE JULY 10-15, 2011

What is Camp Oasis?
Camp Oasis is a co-ed residential summer camp program run by the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA). Our mission is to enrich the lives of children living with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis by providing a safe and supportive camp community.

Where is Camp Oasis held?
Our camp is held at Camp Will-A-Way in Winder, GA. We have been running our program there since 1998. When we are not there, our host site runs 54 other camps for children with medical needs.

How old are the kids that attend Camp Oasis?
We serve campers entering second grade. Those entering 11th and 12th grade participate as part of our special Leaders in Training (LIT) Program.

What is the LIT Program?
The Leaders in Training (LIT) Program is a leadership development program for those entering 11th and 12th grade. It runs for the duration of our session, and combines the fun of camp with additional age-appropriate responsibilities and leadership building activities.

Where are the attendees from?
Our camp serves children from AL, GA, FL, TN, SC and NC.

How does the camper application process work?
The first part of the camper application should be submitted on-line at www.ccfa.org/camps. From there, applicants will receive a confirmation email along with some paper application forms that must also be completed and mailed to the Georgia Chapter by June 15, 2011 in order to be considered for attendance. Spots are not held until complete applications have been received, so we encourage you to apply early. If you do not have access to a computer, please contact us for a hard copy application.

Is there on-site medical care?
Yes! Our camp has a 24-hour on-site Health Center, staffed by physicians, nurses, and mental health professionals experienced in working with IBD patients. The Health Center is run by our Medical Director, Dr. Larry Saripkin, and Head Nurse, Melissa Sheffer, RN, WOCN. All medical care, including the distribution of camper medication, is handled through the Health Center.

Who else serves on staff?
Our camp is run by Camp Director, Jill Waddell, who works closely with the local CCFA staff to create a fun and meaningful experience for our campers. She is joined by a team of fantastic bunk counselors and activity specialists. Most of our counselors are adult volunteers with IBD, who have experience working with kids. A lot have worked at Camp Oasis before. And some have even been campers. All are carefully screened and trained to ensure a safe and comfortable setting.

What do campers do all day?
We try to ensure that every day brings opportunities to try new things, make memories with friends, and just have FUN. A typical day includes several activity periods (swimming, arts and crafts, team sports, etc.) and an Evening Activity (campfire, Talent Show, Scavenger Hunt, etc.), as well as three meals, a snack, and time to relax in the cabin.

What are the cabins and bathroom facilities like?
Campers sleep in comfortable enclosed cabins that are equipped with sanitary bathroom and shower facilities. Additional bathroom facilities are located throughout camp, so campers can easily access them at any point during the day.

Can I see what camp looks like for myself?
Yes, you can visit the website at www.camptwinlakes.org but not in person. Because of our host site’s busy schedule, we cannot accommodate on-site visits. However, you are welcome to visit their website at URL. We also have photos we’d be happy to share. Please let us know if you’re interested.

Can I volunteer on-site at camp if my child attends?
One of the most important outcomes that our campers experience is an increased sense of independence. To foster that outcome, we do not allow parents of campers to serve as camp counselors. If your camper is anxious about attending without you, please contact us. We’d be happy to provide you with some additional information that may help alleviate that anxiety. Additionally, if you are interested in helping with some pre-camps tasks around the office, please let us know.

Can I talk to my child during camp?
Due to the nature of our schedule, campers cannot receive unplanned phone calls, but letters are always welcome. We distribute them to campers daily. Additionally, you may send your child with self-addressed stamped envelopes, as there will be time each day for letter writing. If your child is anxious about being away from home without speaking with you by phone, please contact us. We’d be happy to provide you with some additional information that may help alleviate that anxiety.

Is there a fee to attend?
Yes, we ask parents to contribute a $250 to help offset part of the cost of their child’s attendance. Scholarships are available to those who qualify.

What does my child need to bring to camp?
Just the basics – active clothes and footwear, toiletries, and linens. Don’t worry. We will send you a complete packing list before camp, along with lots of other information, if your child is ultimately accepted for attendance.

What if my question hasn’t been answered here?
We are happy to answer any questions you may have, so please don’t hesitate to contact Mary Ball at the CCFA in Atlanta at 404-982-0616 or mball@ccfa.org.