What is Camp Twin Lakes?
Camp Twin Lakes is a unique non-profit organization in Georgia with camping facilities designed for children with serious illnesses, disabilities and other challenges. Working in collaboration with its Camp Partners, Camp Twin Lakes provides an enriching camping experience for children who might otherwise be unable to attend camp. Camp Twin Lakes was founded in 1991 and began camp operations in 1993 with seven camp groups totaling more than 1,400 campers. Since 1993, Camp Twin Lakes has served more than 40,000 children and volunteers. In its 17th season in 2009, Camp Twin Lakes will partner with over 40 different special needs organizations to offer summer, spring and fall programs, serving more than 7,500 campers annually.
What is Camp Twin Lakes' relationship to each camp group?
Camp Twin Lakes provides the facilities, food, maintenance, medical supervision, administrative and program guidance, leadership, and specially trained staff to administer the main program areas of each camp. Camp Twin Lakes also subsidizes 70% of its cost per person, charging Camp Partners a camp fee of only 30%. The partnering organizations bring their own knowledgeable leaders, medical team, and volunteers, including some specialists – e.g., arts and crafts, dance, music, etc.
Who comes to Camp Twin Lakes?
Camp Twin Lakes has programs year-round at its two overnight campsites, as well as in children's hospitals and at other locations throughout Georgia. We make camp possible for thousands of kids with various illnesses, disabilities and challenges including: asthma, spina bifida, cancer, HIV, muscular dystrophy, diabetes, brain injuries, hemophilia, Tourette syndrome, autism, transplant recipients, kids in foster care, arthritis, visual impairments, developmental disabilities, bereavement, sickle cell disease, thalassemia, Celiac disease, Crohn's and colitis, and more!
Where is Camp Twin Lakes?
Camp Twin Lakes is thrilled to provide programs at various state-of-the-art facilities throughout the state of Georgia, including camps in Rutledge and Winder, children's hospitals, and more!
Our camp in Rutledge (50 miles east of Atlanta) is situated amid 500 wooded acres (120 acres donated by Georgia-Pacific), and is complete with 30 camper cabins, handicapped accessible recreational facilities, an amphitheatre, and a state-of-the art medical lodge.
Our camp at Will-A-Way is located in Fort Yargo State Park in Winder. Camp programs at Will-A-Way began in May 2009. CTL- Will-A-Way sits on 54 acres and has 16 camper cabins as well as fully-accessible activities and programs.
How much does it cost for camp groups to use Camp Twin Lakes?
The average cost to Camp Twin Lakes to serve a camper in 2008 was approximately $550, of which each camp partnering organization will pay 30%, or less than $180 per camper. Camp Twin Lakes' 2008 budget was $2.7 million. Fees paid by our camp partners, the organizations that sponsor camp groups, cover one third of all costs. Camp Twin Lakes raises the remaining funds required to provide campers with customized activities. In effect, Camp Twin Lakes offers a 70% campership scholarship to each camper.
How is Camp Twin Lakes funded?
As a nonprofit organization that does not rely on government or United Way funding, financial support for Camp Twin Lakes is provided through Camp Partner fees paid by our partnering organizations and generous gifts from individuals, foundations and corporations.
Is Camp Twin Lakes accredited?
Yes, Camp Twin Lakes is accredited by the American Camp Association!
How does Camp Twin Lakes address campers' medical needs?
Since Camp Twin Lakes was designed with special needs in mind, relatively serious procedures that once required a hospital visit are done on site. For example, campers who need chemotherapy or dialysis treatment can get their treatment at the camp's medical lodge.
Where can I purchase my favorite CTL gear?
Please visit our online store!
