In 1995, a groundbreaking summer camp welcomed its first campers: 23 children with epilepsy. Today, Brainy Camps is a consortium of medically-managed camps, support groups, and programs for families and children with different chronic health conditions, including autism spectrum disorders, celiac disease, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, Tourette syndrome, and more. Each year, over 400 children attend one of the 4- to 7-day residential camps designed for their condition, enjoying a classic summer experience in a safe environment. Campers test their limits and gain independence – all while hiking, singing campfire songs, and building friendships with their peers. Meanwhile, parents get a much-needed respite, while a professional team (physicians, nutritionists, social workers) ensures each child’s safety and care. As one child said: “Camp is one of the only places I can go where people accept me for who I am and everyone understands.”
Headquarters: DC-Ward 1
Where They Operate: DC-Ward 1; MD-Montgomery County; --; --; Campsite is in St. George, VA
Age Groups Served: Youth (5-11); Pre-teen/teen (12-17); Young adult (18-24)
Population(s) Served: Individuals with Disabilities
Schools They Work In: We serve children who are referred by the schools, hospitals, health organizations, and community.
Awards & Recognition
Featured in the American Hospital Association, AHA. TBA
Published research in journals, 2006, 2007, 2014.
Director served on the Institute of Medicine, 2012-2014
NBC Feature Story 2008
CNN Story 2014
WTOP Charity of the Month, May 2015
Celebration of 20 year Anniversary, Embassy & Campsite, 2015
Featured story, Pediatric Cardiology Magazine, 2013
Press
- No stories found
Budget (FY2014)
- $3 million or higher
- $1 million to $3 million
- $500k to $1 million
- The current budget for Brainy Camps Association is: Less than $500k
Catalogue charities range in size from $100,000 to
About the Catalogue for Philanthropy
Each year 120 expert reviewers evaluate applicants for distinction, merit, and impact. Each featured charity has been successfully site visited and its financials given the thumbs up. The Catalogue for Philanthropy charges no fees and raises funds separately to support its work. Since 2003, it has raised over $40 million for charities across the Greater Washington region.
The Catalogue for Philanthropy looks to friends like you to keep our services independent and entirely free of charge. Consider a small contribution to the Catalogue to cap off your gift and help the causes you care about get the full support they deserve!