"Camp AmeriKids was created in 1995 by AmeriCares founder Bob Macauley in response to a growing need at home to help children living with HIV/AIDS. It is our firm conviction that youth, regardless of their economic, social or medical challenges should have the opportunity to experience the carefree joys of childhood.
Each summer, Camp AmeriKids serves over 250 inner-city children living with HIV/AIDS. Campers age 7 to 15 participate in one of two eight-day sessions held in late July and early August at a beautiful site in Warwick, NY. We offer many activities including boating, swimming, teambuilding, sports, drama, dance, African drums, video and music production, spoken word/poetry, singing, and arts and crafts. On special occasions such as Carnival Day, campers are able to enjoy cotton candy, game booths, prizes, face painting and waterslides. Our evening activities include a Luau dance, campfires with s’mores, a basketball tournament and special guests who visit and give unbelievable performances. Sessions culminated in our extraordinary Talent Show, when campers take the stage to share their skills with the entire community.
Camp AmeriKids is able to provide comprehensive and unobtrusive medical care within the camp environment. The camp Infirmary is overseen by two physicians and over ten nurses and nurse practitioners who reside on the grounds while camp is in session. Each camper’s medical history is evaluated prior to his or her arrival, ensuring that medications are administered on schedule and that all necessary medical precautions are taken during the session.
Additionally, a Wellness Team overseen by a licensed clinical social worker is on site at all times. This psychosocial component of our program matches one child specialist with each age group to assist counselors and staff members in managing any challenges associated with living in a new environment.
Camp AmeriKids has expanded its offerings to graduated campers, ages 16 and 17, inviting them to apply to a year-round Leader-In-Training (LIT) program. We provide opportunities for our adolescent participants to gain experience and knowledge that will allow them to become active and motivated leaders in their communities. In the summer of 2008, we were proud to welcome six graduates of the LIT Program back to camp as volunteer counselors."
