Camp Abilities: Alaska

Haley McDonald Start Date: Dec 1, 2016 - End Date: Aug 31, 2017
  • Anchorage, Alaska, United States of America

My Travel Story

by: Haley McDonald Start Date: Dec 1, 2016 - End Date: Aug 31, 2017
Camp Abilities is a fun one-week developmental sports camp for children ages 9 to 19 who are blind or visually impaired. The camp is set up to provide a one-on-one instructional situation for each child. During the week, children develop sport skills and gain confidence to become more independent in their daily lives. The purpose of Camp Abilities is to empower children with sensory impairments to be physically active and productive members of their schools, communities, and society. The Camp Abilities experience teaches children what they CAN do in sports and recreation, which is often overlooked in their education and home environments.

Throughout the week, athletes participate in a long list of physical activities including swimming, goalball, beep baseball, tandem biking, track and field events, rock climbing, hiking, canoeing, archery, and more. 

The camp is located on the campus of the University of Alaska Anchorage. Athletes and volunteer coaches alike share a week that gives memories and friends for a lifetime.

The camp dates have not been finalized, but it will be during the month of July. 

After graduating in December with my Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education, I am wanting to pursue a Master’s degree. During my last semester of college, I took a class for Adaptive Physical Education and absolutely fell in love. I had the opportunity to work with students with a wide range of disabilities and found a new passion. One disability I have not been able to work with are kids who are blind/visually impaired. Before starting on my Master’s degree, I feel the need to volunteer to make sure this is the field I want to devote my future to. I know this will be a life changing experience, and I am so excited to take this adventure.

I thank each of you in advance for your contribution to my future.
  • Anchorage, Alaska, United States of America

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