In 2014 Camp Ho Mita Koda is celebrating its 85th year of giving thousands of children the opportunity to enjoy a normal summer camping experience while developing skills in diabetes self-management that will serve them throughout their lives. Registration for the 72-acre camp, located in Newbury, is open for the 2014 camp season, offering overnight programs for children and adolescents ages 8-15
Programs are specially designed to help campers self-manage their diabetes through personal responsibility; make healthy choices and make a life-long network of friends. It’s also a great opportunity for parents to truly relax and re-energize while their children are having fun at camp in a medically supervised environment. An on-site licensed medical team with experienced physicians from the area’s major medical centers and teaching hospitals oversees the diabetes management of each camper. A registered dietitian plans the meals and snacks. Trained program specialists and camp counselors – many of whom have diabetes and who were campers themselves – nurture an atmosphere of fun and learning.
“Camp Ho Mita Koda provides a great opportunity for children with diabetes to learn more about the disease while participating in fun activities including paintball target practice, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, archery, arts and crafts, drama and team sports” says Tina Milano, President and CEO of Diabetes Partnership of Cleveland.
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“We are planning an exceptional summer season at Camp Ho Mita Koda,” says Kyle Chones, Camp Ho Mita Koda’s Youth and Program Manager. “With the completion of the 550 square foot, elevated tree house, called Julia’s Cabin, campers will enjoy a music program in the new facility. Improvement to the challenge course and new canoes for the waterfront program are also planned. A gardening program, provided by the Geauga County Master Gardeners, will help teach campers about nutrition and healthy eating.”
To help ensure that all children have the chance to attend residence camp, camperships (financial assistance) are available to qualifying families on a first come, first served basis. Applications are now being accepted for all sessions. Also, a one-day mini-camp will be held on Aug. 2 for children ages 4-10 with their families. A one-day teen program will be held Sept. 13 for ages 14-17 with diabetes.