As with most things in the past year, Camp New Hope has been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Camp New Hope is a year-round recreational experience for children and adults with developmental and physical disabilities created in 1954 by parents of mentally disabled children. The organization has continued to grow and expand since. 

The camp usually has extensive summer programs as well as respite weekends to provide caregivers with a break. However, the summer of 2020 made it impossible to have campers in-person, and the camp was essentially non-operational. Reflecting on the past summer, Kathy Beals, Camp New Hope Board President, said, “It was completely different. Usually, our grounds are bustling with campers and counselors having fun, laughing, and just enjoying life during the summer.” 

Fortunately, the staff is hopeful for this summer. Beals said, “We are looking forward to having some activities this summer so we can see some smiling faces again.” 

The camp also hopes to reopen for respite weekends and holidays and special occasions in the cooler months.