Camp Abilities Saratoga, in partnership with the Saratoga Lion’s Club, welcomed 15 blind and visually impaired youth to a week‑long sleep‑away camp on the Skidmore College campus in Saratoga Springs early last week. The program offered a full schedule of outdoor activities and mentorship designed specifically for participants who experience visual impairment.
The camp ran for seven days on the college grounds, providing a structured environment where each camper was paired one‑to‑one with a coach. These coaches, many of whom previously attended the program as campers themselves, guided the youth through hiking, team games, and other recreational pursuits while emphasizing safety and independence.
Organizers highlighted that the one‑on‑one coaching model allows personalized attention, enabling campers to build confidence in navigating unfamiliar settings. Former participants serving as coaches also bring lived experience, reinforcing the program’s emphasis on peer mentorship and continuity.
The Saratoga Lion’s Club helped fund the initiative, ensuring that all expenses related to transportation, lodging, and activity supplies were covered for the 15 attendees. By situating the camp on a college campus, the organizers could take advantage of existing facilities such as dormitories, dining halls, and accessible outdoor spaces.
Camp Abilities Saratoga aims to broaden opportunities for blind and visually impaired youth to engage in typical summer camp experiences. The week‑long stay gave participants a chance to develop new skills, form friendships, and explore the Saratoga Springs region in a supportive setting. The program’s success this year adds to a growing tradition of inclusive summer programming in the area, reinforcing the community’s commitment to accessible recreation.
Looking ahead, the organizers plan to continue the partnership with the Lion’s Club and maintain the coach‑to‑camper ratio that has proven effective in fostering personal growth and confidence among participants.