Get to know our program
Jean Nelson family camps focus on providing support and a sense of community to families who have a child living with type 1 diabetes. At family camp, we welcome anyone in your child’s care-giving community, which may include grandparents, extended family or close friends. If there are people involved in the care of your child with type 1 diabetes, they are invited to attend.
Family camp brings people together in a way that just doesn’t happen in any other setting. Family camp is a fantastic introduction or connection to the D-Camps experience. You and your family will get the opportunity to take part in camp programming in a community of people who understand the day-to-day challenges of living with type 1 diabetes.
Join the D-Camps family
Family camp is a great fit for you if:
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You have a recently diagnosed child and are looking to connect with people who understand;
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You have years of experience and could be a valuable support to others; or,
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Someone in your family lives with type 1 diabetes and you want to have a fun D-Camps experience!
All of our family camps take place in a traditional camp setting, so you will have the opportunity to get a sense of the camp programming we provide during summer camps.
At Jean Nelson family camp, families sleep in dorm style lodges. There are two sets of bunk beds in each room with shared washroom facilities. Families will have their own bedroom spaces, but they will share washroom and shower facilities. The dorms are heated, however, bedding is not provided – be sure to bring enough warm clothing for a May long weekend in Alberta. You never know what the weather might have in store!
About the Camp
Campers & Staff
Supervision
Parents are responsible for the supervision of their children while at camp. However, supervision will be provided during scheduled program activities. Parents are also responsible for their children’s medical and dietary care, including their child’s diabetes management, the dispensing of medication(s) and monitoring of personal supplies. Medical staff/personnel are on site to facilitate programming and to act as source of support for any consultation.
Activities
Youth activities
Program staff will plan and facilitate age-appropriate games and activities for the children at camp. Some of these activities include: high ropes, various sports, archery, arts and crafts, and many more.
These program staff will be made up of Camp Kindle and D-Camps staff. Some of our staff team live with type 1 diabetes. Family camp creates endless opportunities for your child to learn from and relate to a young adult role model living with diabetes. These staff will also be available to assist campers with testing and treating lows.
Adult activities
Adults, parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to meet and connect with each other in various sessions throughout the weekend. These sessions, which include discussion groups and team-building activities, are often led by adults living with type 1 diabetes, the medical team and leaders from the type 1 diabetes community. These sessions are often seen as the highlight of the weekend. They provide opportunities for caregivers to discuss life with type 1 diabetes in a caring and supportive environment with an understanding group of peers.
Family activities
There will be a number of all-camp programs planned throughout the weekend that the whole family can participate in together. These fun events are a great opportunity for the whole family to spend time together and feel like they are on a holiday. It might be the whole family on the high ropes course or a mother-daughter showdown at archery but no matter what, it will be a great time!
Guides
In the guide, you will find information on:
- Packing lists
- Directions and transportation for drop off and pick up
- Contact information
Rates & Dates
| Age | Rate |
|---|---|
| Adult (18+) | $225 |
| Youth (3-17) | $125 |
| Child (2 and under) | Free |
If this fee is a challenge for you and your family Diabetes Canada offers subsidies to those who qualify for financial assistance. These subsidies are made possible through the generous support of various donors.
It is our responsibility to ensure that donations go to support families experiencing financial hardship that would make attending camp impossible.
To determine eligibility for a subsidy, you will be asked to complete a financial assistance application. When reviewing applications, income will not be the only consideration in whether an applicant qualifies for subsidy. Our goal is to ensure that all campers have an opportunity regardless of their financial situation while using donations as prudently as possible.
Who is eligible for financial support?
You may be eligible for a subsidy if you:
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Receive financial assistance from an identified government program, OR
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Experience financial hardship and do not receive government financial assistance.
What does financial hardship mean?
Financial hardship means that a person has difficulty paying for basic daily living expenses (e.g. food, shelter, clothing), and does not have access to savings or other financial resources.
Note: Supporting documents will be required to determine eligibility. Please be prepared to provide a copy of your paystub, T4 or Notice of Assessment to accompany your application.
Important to note:
To ensure that we are providing equitable access to financial assistance we will not be able to consider you request until you have completed the financial assistance application form in full. This includes the requested supporting documents