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Camp Kakhamela (British Columbia)
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If you’re a child with diabetes, plan to have some fun this summer at Camp Kakhamela!
Children with Type 1 diabetes have been learning about diabetes and enjoying a quality summer camp experience at Camp Kakhamela since 1962. The camp is named after our first Medical Director, Dr. John Hunt (Kakamela is a local First Nations word which means the hunt).
Camp Kakhamela strives to create a safe, fun camping and learning environment, which is delivered by professionals and trained staff, providing quality, cutting edge programs and services.
Partnership
Camp Kakhamela has grown exponentially over its history - having outgrown its original site and several since - and is now partnered with YMCA of Greater Vancouver: Camp Elphinstone. All of Camp Kakhamela’s programs our hosted by Camp Elphinstone, located on BC’s Sunshine Coast, near Gibsons, a 40-minute ferry ride from Vancouver.
Camp Kakhamela campers participate in all aspects of the summer camp program offered at Camp Elphinstone. Camp Elphinstone program staff and counsellors work alongside the Camp Kakhamela Medical Team to ensure a successful camp experience for all campers.
Program
The program offered at camp can be divided into three main sections:
Interest Groups
Campers are able to select an activity of their choice and continue developing their personal skills within this area throughout the week.
Cabin Groups
Campers participate in a variety of activities with their cabin group; building teamwork skills, cooperation, and making new friendships while having fun.
Evening Programs
The whole camp gathers and everyone participants in an activity or event together.
Typical camp activities that campers participate in during either Interest Groups, Cabin Groups, or as Evening Programs include but are not limited to: canoeing, sailing, high-ropes, arts & crafts, drama, campfire, swimming, basketball, soccer, nature lore, archery, hiking, and much much more!
Camp Sessions
( 7 – 15 yrs*)
Three camp sessions are available: Two One-week sessions and one Two-week session. One-week sessions are a great introduction to camp for the first time, or younger camper. Our two-week session allows seasoned campers to experience all that camp has to offer.
One-week session dates
July 4 – July 9 and July 11 – 16
Two-week session dates
July 4 – July 16
Leadership Development 1 – LD1
(15-16 yrs*)
LD1 is the first of an intended two-year program geared towards helping campers gain proficiency and comfort in an outdoor setting. LD1 focuses on technical skills associated with camp including: kayaking, canoeing, ropes course, sailing, team building, outtripping and first aid. Campers will also take part in an outtrip experience. This two-week program also offers youth a chance to build strong and lasting friendships in a positive and constructive setting. Successful graduates of LD1 will be given preference at spaces in the following year’s LD2 program. Due to the popularity of this program, and limited space available we cannot guarantee spots to returning LD1 campers. If you have completed LD1 please contact the YMCA – Camp Elphinstone for a LD2 application form: 604-939-9622 or http://www.vanymca.org.
Two week session
July 4 – 16
*All ages as of July 1st 2010
Health Care and Diabetes Management
Our Medical Director, Dr. Daniel Metzger, will coordinate a team of 23 on-site physicians, nurses, and dietitians each week. Dr. Stock is a Pediatric Endocrinologist, as well as a seasoned camp veteran. The camp medical team is largely comprised of returning staff, many of whom have prior relationship with the campers since the campers are often their patients outside of camp. Working with our team of healthcare professionals, Dr. Sue will support and supervise the campers’ diabetes management procedures.
Dietary
“Best camp cafeteria food I have ever tasted!”
- 15 yr female camper
Our Registered Dietitians work closely with the Kitchen staff to coordinate diabetes meal planning for all the campers. This ensures that all meals are nutritious and that carbohydrates have been properly counted.
Because of the large staff team required to operate camp, we must limit the number of volunteers at camp to healthcare professionals. If you are interested in volunteering at camp, please contact the Camp Coordinator.
Cabin living
Campers are accommodated in cabins that sleep 10 campers in bunk beds. Two counsellors reside in the cabin. Bathroom facilities are centralized, a short walk, from the cabins and program areas.
Transportation
Camp is located on the Sunshine Coast, Near Gibsons BC. Transportation is provided from Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal. This is our most popular option. Parent’s dropping off their child at Horseshoe Bay, will have the opportunity to meet their child’s counsellor and the Camp Kakhamela Medical Staff Team.
Transportation is also provided from Vancouver Airport for campers who are flying into Vancouver. Campers will be shuttled under the supervision of Camp Counsellors and a Camp Nurse.
There will be no airport shuttle option available for 1-week campers attending July 11 – 16, as there will be no airport shuttle on July 11.
Siblings of Children With Diabetes
Siblings of children with diabetes are welcome to attend camp. However we encourage them to register through the YMCA. Space is very limited at Camp Kakhamela therefore we must reserve space for children with diabetes first. If you have any questions or concerns please contact the Camp Coordinator to discuss further:
YMCA of Greater Vancouver – Camp Elphinstone
604-939-9622
http://www.vanymca.org
Campership Fund (Financial Assistance)
At the Canadian Diabetes Association, we feel that the ability to pay for camp should not be a barrier to participation. Please indicate on the registration form that you will be requiring a subsidy, and an application form will be mailed to you. Please contact the Camp Coordinator with any questions.
All applications must be returned by April 30, 2010. A review committee will assess your application and contact you by mail, or phone. Late applications will be reviewed on an individual basis.
Last year over $20,000 was raised to help send children to camp. To make a donation to our Campership Fund please call 604-732-1331.
How to Register
For further information about registration or subsidy application, please contact:
Natalie Tomei
Canadian Diabetes Association – Pacific Area
360 - 1385 West 8th Avenue
Vancouver, BC V6H 3V9
1-800-665-6526 ext 231
604-732-1331 ext 231
(email works best!)