Camp Barnabas: Creating Memories for All

The idea of summer camps often fills people with fond memories of yard games, nature, making new friends, bonfires, and other happy memories from their childhood. The memories created at summer camps are something that every child deserves to have, regardless of ability, race, financial situation, or anything else. There are several amazing organizations that help contribute to this concept, and one in particular has the incredible mission of hosting a Christian summer camp for those with special needs: Camp Barnabas.

Founded in 1994, Camp Barnabas began after Lauren Hauschild, a child suffering from cancer, was asked what her ideal summer camp would look like. She described a place where activities were accessible and everyone’s differences were unifying instead of dividing. Her answer inspired the beginning of Camp Barnabas. Today, Camp Barnabas has been serving its community in Purdy, Missouri for 27 years and has hosted over 90,000 campers and missionaries.

"Everyone would be in a wheelchair or on crutches. No one would care that your hair was missing from chemo. It would be easy or anyone to do all of the activities of camp. Cancer wouldn't isolate you, it would unite you, and when you came there, you would be loved." - Lauren Hauschild describing her ideal summer camp

The Camp Barnabas summer camp is truly life changing for the campers who attend. Every program and activity is adapted so that everyone, no matter what abilities they have, can participate and have fun. Campers are able to stay in cabins with those within their age group, so they are able to meet new people and create lifelong friendships. Children, their parents, and community members adore Camp Barnabas and are extremely appreciative of the difference it has made in their lives.

Camper with a volunteer at Camp Barnabas