YMCA Camp Kitaki

Camp Buckskin is an overnight summer camp that specializes in serving boys and girls ages 6-18 who are experiencing academic and/or social skill difficulties. More specifically, the majority of our campers have AD/HD, Learning Disabilities, Aspergers or similar needs. Our campers have average to well above average intelligence. They also have a world of potential in many areas that has yet to be developed. They simply need extra help and support to convert their potentials into abilities.

Since our start in 1959, more than 8,000 children have benefitted from our therapeutic program. These young people have experienced a great deal of personal growth and improvement as reported by those who know them best - their parents, teachers and other involved professionals.

The Buckskin program effectively utilizes the summer to help youth not only stay focused, but gain knowledge and skills while improving existing abilities. These new abilities and skills help produce a smoother transition to the new school year. Perhaps more importantly, these gains also help them to become happier and more successful.

The campers receive instruction in a mix of traditional camp and some academic activities each day. As they acquire knowledge and demonstrate skills, they progress through the various levels in each activity, and are recognized for their achievements. The less visible part features our Personal Growth program. Parents select several social skill goals for their child to work on. Learning opportunities help our campers improve their peer relations, interpersonal communication skills, problem solving abilities, and a variety of related skills.

As a supplement, we share our insights and observations with parents, so they can better help their child continue the progress made at camp. Parents appreciate the strengthened self-concept resulting from successes in the more tangible parts of the program. They are perhaps more interested in helping their child make progress in their peer relations, as making and maintaining friendships is so important. Camp Buckskin provides a nurturing and supportive environment for children with special needs to thrive and develop their potential.

Accreditations: ACA