The Center for Courageous Kids in Scottsville has opened registration for the 2025 summer camps and spring and fall weekend retreats.

Inspired by the loss of her son to cancer, Betty Turner Campbell founded the non-profit medical camp in 2008 to create a free, supportive place for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

Located on 168 acres, the camp allows campers to engage in activities such as horseback riding, archery, swimming and boating.

“It’s a special place where children with disabilities and lifelong medical conditions can experience something every kid should have — a joyful, unforgettable summer camp,” said Darren Dannelly, president and CEO of The Center for Courageous Kids.

Each summer, nine weeklong sessions are available at no cost to families, each one designed specially for a different medical condition “so campers can be surrounded by friends who understand their journey.”

“We typically welcome up to 128 kids a week and this summer, we are excited to invite siblings of campers along for the fun, as well,” Dannelly said.

He said that the weekend retreats in the spring and fall give parents, siblings and campers the chance to connect, relax and be together in a place full of understanding and love.

A variety of activities are offered at the camp, which is built with accessibility in mind.

“Kids can do what they love or try something totally new, all in a safe and supportive setting,” Dannelly said. “In a world where kids with disabilities often hear ‘you can’t,’ CCK is the place where ‘you can’ becomes a reality.”

He said that all activities are thoughtfully adapted so all children can fully participate and the facilities are designed with wide sidewalks and adaptive equipment.

“Out on the lake, you’ll see campers canoeing, fishing and just soaking in the joy of being out in nature,” he said. “Our horse barn offers all children — no matter their physical abilities — the joy of riding horses and interacting with a variety of animals.”

Other activities include mini-golf, music and theater, arts and crafts, woodworking and culinary experiences.

For the campers, Dannelly said the camp is more than just a fun getaway.

“It’s life-changing,” he said “It’s a place where they don’t have to explain themselves or feel different. They’re just kids, trying new things, making friends and building confidence along the way.”

He said that many of the kids arrive a little unsure and some are scared to be away from home, “but by the end of the week, they’re beaming with pride having conquered new challenges and having made lifelong friends.”

Many of the kids are in tears at the end of the week, Donnelly said, but it’s not because they are sad. It’s because they don’t want to leave.

“The camp truly becomes a second home for many of them,” he said. “One camper came to us at age 6 and instantly fell in love with CCK. She’s been coming back every summer since and now, at 18, will be joining us as a counselor.”

The camp also gives parents the chance to connect with other families who understand what they are going through.

“It becomes a community of shared experience and support, something just as valuable as the camp itself,” Dannelly said.

Families can register online by filling out the camper registration form at courageouskids.org.

“CCK is completely free to families thanks to our incredible donors and volunteers,” Dannelly said.

The full summer schedule is posted on the website and the first session kicks off June 3.