About

I loved, loved, loved, coming here to this camp as a child and the feeling of being accepted by everyone there. Being included in everything from campfire songs, roasting marshmallows, scavenger hunts, swimming in the pool, nature walks, rock climbing, to archery and having a blast the whole week there. It was the best time of my life!!! And I want to thank all the wonderful staff for making my time there the best ever!!!!!

“Our kids just want to be typical and enjoy life—and they can do that at Camp Aranzazu. This is a place where kids feel loved and accepted. Camp changes these kids, and the benefits last far beyond their time at camp."

"I can see huge benefits and differences in our students who attend summer camp versus those who do not. The children who attended Camp Aranzazu reflect better self-esteem, greater confidence, and more independence in the classroom. They also are more willing to attempt new lessons and activities at school. When they succeed at a new activity at camp, and that lesson stays with them during the school year."

"Our campers have neuromuscular disorders that require constant attention and care, as well as special accommodations for their physical limitations. Year after year, Camp Aranzazu's staff listen to our campers' needs and make the week magical for them. Our campers call their time at Camp Aranzazu 'the Best Week of the Year!' "

"AVDA’s clients are survivors of domestic abuse, and they and their children have been through so very much as a result of the abuse. AVDA’s camp, aptly named 'Camp Carefree,' provides them with a healing, safe, relaxing few days to enjoy being together without the fears, frustrations and challenges they face in their day-to-day lives. Camp Aranzazu's staff ensures that everyone felt welcome, secure and genuinely cared for."

"I have seen miracles happen at camp, which is why camp is one of my favorite parts of being a pediatric oncologist. I have seen children who were wheelchair-bound get up and walk by the end of camp because they see other children with the same disease who are able to play and enjoy life."

“[Sammie's] confidence, willingness to try new things, and independence has grown a lot since camp, She was so independent and proud of herself while she was at camp. And she came home motivated to continue that independence.”

"I got to see all of these children with asthma - a debilitating airway disease that interferes with the fundamental act of breathing - swim, fish, shoot arrows, play basketball and even climb a rockwall and fly down a zip-line back to earth. It was truly inspirational."

"As a nurse, I see some of these kids at their worst, their sickest, their lowest. At camp, I see all of these kids at their absolute best. No IVs, no needles, no hospital beds… only time with friends, fresh air, and the challenge and triumph of new experiences. At camp, there’s a feeling of belonging, and an overwhelming sense of healing for the campers and for myself that can’t be described in words."