What is Camp Ky-O-Wa?

Camp Ky-O-Wa is a day camp dedicated to providing children of all abilities a traditional day camp experience of boating, swimming, fishing, crafts, songs, games, nature walks and more. Through these activities and interaction with a diverse group of children, the campers learn new recreational skills, foster education through experience and develop an understanding and appreciation for people of all abilities.

 

Who can come to camp?

The camp is for children age 5-11 who have completed at least one year of school (preschool included.)  The goal is to include a diverse mix of children, both with and without disabilities. The camp will have 32 children each week; divided by age into five units.

 

What are the staff to camper ratios?

In 2007, there will be one Senior Counselor for every three campers, plus one or two Junior Counselors for every three campers.

 

Where is the Camp?

Through a generous donation from PGE, Camp Ky-O-Wa has taken place on the shores of Roslyn Lake in Sandy for 24 years, having been held in other locations previously. The camp is fully wheelchair accessible. Roslyn Lake will drain with the removal of a dam at the end of the 2007 summer making it necessary for The Arc to find a new, suitable and exciting location! Check back for more details as we near summer for 2008.

 

How do kids get to Camp?

The bus trip is part of the fun!! Two school buses, including one with a wheelchair lift, take all of the campers and counselors out to camp each day. The groups play games, sing songs and get to know one another on the trips. The buses pick up and drop off at two sites: Portland Benson High School and the Gresham Fred Meyer parking lot.

 

How much does it cost?

In 2007, the camp fee was $150. Please check back in the spring to find out what the cost for 2008 will be.

 

When does the camp take place?

Camp starts in July and lasts for 3 sessions. Each session lasts 4 days (Monday through Thursday).

 

Can my child attend more than one session?

Unfortunately, due to the popularity of the camp, and the limited number of spaces, each child can attend only one session each summer.

 

Who are the staff?

The Arc of Multnomah-Clackamas oversees all camp operations, with support from Portland Parks and Recreation. The Camp Director, Derik Spires, has worked for Camp Ky-O-Wa for 10 years. When he is not busy with the Camp, Derik works with students with disabilities in the Portland Public Schools, and is pursuing his Nursing Degree.

Ten senior counselors (age 18+) are recruited each year. Many counselors from previous years will return. Most counselors are either college students, or work as staff in the school system during the rest of the year.

 

What are the staff qualifications?

Senior Counselors must be 18 years old, are subject to a criminal background check. The majority of staff have basic first aid and CPR certification. A certified lifeguard is on duty at all times that children are in the water.

 Who are the Junior Counselors?

High school students, age 13-18, volunteer at Camp Ky-O-Wa to provide additional attention and assistance for campers. Each Junior Counselor is interviewed and screened by the Camp Director.

 

What should Campers bring to camp?

Campers need to bring a lunch and drink each day. Pack foods that will not spoil, as there is not a refrigerator. Bring a swimsuit and towel each day. A lightweight jacket is needed for the mornings.

 

The Arc of Multnomah-Clackamas are proud partners with Portland Parks & Recreation to ensure that Camp Ky-O-Wa thrives in the future.