Summer Camp 2025 Recap
Walla Walla Valley Disability Network – SOAR Program
This summer, we welcomed youth and young adults ages 8 - 21 with a wide range of abilities for a week filled with creativity, fun, and community. Each day had a unique theme, offering activities, crafts, games, and STEAM projects designed to be inclusive, engaging, and age-appropriate.
Day 1 – All About Me
We started camp by getting to know each other and building friendships. Campers used 3D printing to write their names, decorated camp boxes to hold their creations throughout the week, and shared about themselves in fun and interactive ways.
Day 2 – Under the Sea
Ocean exploration took a creative twist with squishy-making, coral reef building, and beach glass mosaics. Campers explored ocean themes through hands-on art and STEAM while enjoying the chance to design and take home their own sea-inspired creations.
Day 3 – Space Explorers
Space day was a highlight of the week! Campers built solar systems, designed STEM robots, created space-themed magnets, and engineered magnetic space stations. The projects combined imagination with science and technology in exciting, age-appropriate ways.
Day 4 – Animal Adventures
Campers went on an animal track scavenger hunt, built and painted animal habitat dioramas, and created painted wooden snakes. The day focused on exploring nature, animals, and creativity through hands-on building and art activities.
Day 5 – Camp Carnival
Our final camp day brought celebration and fun with mask making, scratch art, sticker scenes, and diamond art. Carnival-style games, obstacle course challenges, and time with friends wrapped up the week.
Everyday Fun
Each day of camp also included new sensory stations, obstacle course building, miniature bikes and scooters, and playground time. Campers had opportunities for movement, exploration, and relaxation woven into every theme day.
End of Camp Celebration
We ended the week and summer together at Veterans Memorial Pool on Friday evening. Campers swam, played with friends, went off diving boards, and enjoyed water slides. Everyone gathered to watch a video of the camp talent show, celebrating memories and accomplishments together.
Impact:
- Connection: Campers formed new friendships and practiced social skills in a supportive environment.
- Creativity: Each participant expressed themselves through art, STEM, and hands-on projects.
- Confidence: Opportunities to try new things build independence and self-esteem.
- Community: Volunteers, staff, and families created an atmosphere of joy, inclusion, and belonging.
