2023 North Texas Giving Day Booster: Camp Summit

According to Camp Summit’s Marketing and Public Relations Manager Marissa Hoiles,

“Imagine waking up each day, completely reliant on others for assistance. Every morning, your existence hinges on their help, from getting dressed to preparing a meal. The simple tasks that others take for granted require the constant support of those around you. Throughout your life, you’ve endured a never-ending chorus of ‘No’ and ‘You can’t,’ constantly reminded of your limitations and faced with countless barriers instead of being encouraged to dream and explore endless possibilities.

“But at Camp Summit, those challenges become a thing of the past. Camp Summit provides transformative outdoor camping experiences specifically designed for individuals with disabilities aged 6 to 99. In a world where inclusive overnight recreational camps are limited, Camp Summit strives to make a difference. We foster social skills, boost confidence, and promote independence, empowering campers to focus on their abilities rather than their disabilities. Within our nurturing and supportive environment, the resounding mantra is “I Did It!” as campers surpass expectations and achieve personal growth.

“The support of Communities Foundation of Texas’ North Texas Giving Day has assisted in Camp Summit’s journey of raising over $400,000 in the past 14 years, enabling us to maintain our barrier-free camp facility in Paradise, Texas.

“The impact of North Texas Giving Day and our donors cannot be overstated. Their contributions have allowed Camp Summit to cultivate an empowering environment for our campers. Unlike many other camps, we have no upper age limit, creating a rare continuum of care. We’ve had the privilege of welcoming campers aged 6 to 87, with one camper attending consecutively for an incredible 70 years! No matter the age, each year, their arrival is met with infectious excitement, genuine laughter, and beaming smiles, setting the stage for yet another unforgettable adventure at Camp Summit.

“Our campers form a vibrant and diverse community, encompassing a wide spectrum of disabilities. From intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, and physical challenges to deaf-blindness and multiple disabilities ranging from mild to severe, each individual finds acceptance and belonging at Camp Summit. We’ve gone above and beyond to ensure our facilities cater to diverse needs, with wheelchair accessibility in our swimming pool, archery equipment designed for campers with limited mobility, sensory science activities, and a ropes challenge course where even wheelchair-bound campers can soar through the sky!

“The benefits of our camp programs extend beyond the campers themselves, providing much-needed respite for their families and caregivers. Through our sliding scale fee and scholarships, we ensure that 90% of our campers receive financial assistance. Donations made on North Texas Giving Day directly support the needs of our campers, enabling us to continue providing these transformative experiences that make a lasting impact.

“Camp Summit is a place where barriers fade away, limitations are conquered, and dreams come to life. Join us on this incredible journey of compassion and transformation, and together, let’s make a profound difference in the lives of those who deserve it most.”

* Graphic/photo provided by Camp Summit 
** Photo credit: Chris Joseph 

In 14 years, Communities Foundation of Texas’ North Texas Giving Day has pumped more than $503 million into the North Texas community. In 2022, more than $62.6 million was raised through 94,385 donors benefiting over 3,210 area nonprofits.

On Thursday, September 21, support Camp Summit by clicking here and spreading the word. #NTxGivingDay2023