Camp Kidz: Creating Lifelong Memories for Campers
By: Forgottonia Times™ Report
Camp Director Casey Hunziker alongside camper Braxton
For the fifty-one campers attending Camp Kidz this summer, the six-week program run by Thrive is much more than just a typical summer camp. Thrive, formerly known as KCCDD, has a mission to "promote and nurture the physical, emotional, and intellectual needs of persons with disabilities." This year, Camp Kidz is once again offering a haven of fun and learning for children and young adults aged five to twenty-one.
Camp Kidz's popularity has grown so much that they often have to turn away applicants. This year's campers are guided and supported by a dedicated team of twenty-four counselors, a nurse, and the leadership of Casey Hunziker. Casey, who started with Camp Kidz in 1998 as a counselor, now returns as the camp's director after a brief hiatus to spend summers with her daughter.
A Day in the Life at Camp Kidz
The camp offers a variety of activities designed to engage and delight every camper. Mondays and Thursdays are dedicated to free play at the camp, and arts and crafts are available, providing a creative outlet for everyone. Recent camp activities have included bracelet making, crafting paper spiders, playing on the swingsets, movie days, and kickball games. Tuesdays are reserved for water activities, a favorite among many campers. Wednesdays are field trip days, featuring visits to local attractions such as Abbe Lanes in Abingdon, The Discovery Depot, Rotary Park splash pad, AMC movie theater, Lake Story, and even Camp Big Sky in Fairview which is uniquely designed for individuals with disabilities to explore the outdoors with minimal limitations.
Each day concludes with one camper receiving the "Camper of the Day" award, which includes a special announcement and photo and is celebrated with a dance party. This year's song of choice is Miley Cyrus's "Party in the USA."
Building Bonds and Memories
Each week, every counselor is assigned to a group of campers with built-in one-on-one time. This personalized approach helps campers get to know each other and their counselors on a more personal level. Many campers return year after year, some having returned for over eight years, and are an integral part of the camp community.
When asked for some of her favorite memories from Camp Kidz, Casey Hunziker said she cherishes moments when campers engage in new activities and blossom: "The most rewarding thing is getting kids to engage in a new activity that they wouldn't have otherwise. They will come and not know anyone or not want to talk to anyone, but they'll find an activity they enjoy and start to blossom."
Community and Celebrations
Camp Kidz hosts several events throughout the summer to involve families and showcase the campers' experiences. These include a Family Fun Day, a Talent Show, and participation in the Knox County Fair. The camp also features a Counselor Wall, where counselors can sign their names and the years they served, a tradition since 2008.
A Legacy of Impact
Casey Hunziker's dedication extends beyond the summer camp. With 22 years of experience working with the school district's special education program, she brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her role. Under her guidance, along with the help of several others, Camp Kidz is a welcoming and enjoyable place for campers to spend their summer. Camp Kidz continues to be a beacon of joy and inclusion for its campers, offering a summer of fun and a lifetime of memories and friendships.
