Entirely Inclusive Summer Camp Opens in Northwest Indiana

​Opportunity Enterprises opens Camp Lakeside, a day camp created to be entirely inclusive. It is the first of its kind in Northwest Indiana. School-aged children with AND without disabilities will come together to experience a uniquely integrated summer camp, where they will learn to appreciate the many differences among us. 

​With a 3:1 camper to staff ratio, campers will embark on bold adventures, develop new friendships, and gain an appreciation for individuality – all while having FUN together. Camp Lakeside is situated on 158 acres surrounding Lake Eliza in Valparaiso.
 
“Summer camp is a magical place,” shares Camp Lakeside Director, Nichole Schaefer-Murray. “It provides a safe space for kids to truly be themselves; to celebrate themselves AND one another. At summer camp, kids have the opportunity to grow, learn, and discover; gaining independence, confidence, compassion, deep friendships, and lifelong memories. I am incredibly excited to see the extra special magic that Camp Lakeside creates, and the impact it will have in our community and beyond. Camp Lakeside gives children living with disabilities the same camp experiences and opportunities that all children deserve access to. As an integrated, all-abilities camp, Camp Lakeside is focused on acceptance, inclusion, and greater possibilities for everyone.”
 
Each week at Camp Lakeside will have its own unique theme. In addition to themed activities, campers will enjoy art, STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics), archery, gardening, nature exploration, games, life skills & social development, community service, and much more!
 
Camp Lakeside’s inaugural season will include 8 adventure-filled weeks, running from June 6th – July 29th. Each camp session lasts one week, Monday – Friday. Weekly tuition is $200 per camper, and extended hour care is also available at an additional weekly rate.
 
To register your child for Camp Lakeside, visit www.camplakeside.org. To apply for a job as a Camp Counselor or a Camp Specialist at Camp Lakeside, visit www.camplakeside.org/get-involved/.
 
For more information regarding Camp Lakeside, contact Nichole Schaefer-Murray at [email protected] or call (219) 464-0242. For more information regarding Opportunity Enterprises and its services for those with disabilities, contact Kacie Ensign by calling (219) 464-9621 or by emailing [email protected].
 
About Opportunity Enterprises, Inc.
For more than 50 years, Opportunity Enterprises has worked to maximize the self-sufficiency and enrich the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. OE is in the business of amazing people serving over 1,000 people annually with disabilities in Northwest Indiana with over 350 staff and many volunteers.