Nestled in the scenic beauty of Ohio’s Western Reserve, Camp Ho Mita Koda stands as a beacon of adventure and learning for young campers. Located in Newbury Township, this camp benefits from a rich natural setting, surrounded by lush forests and vibrant landscapes that are perfect for exploration and outdoor activities.

Founded in 1929, Camp Ho Mita Koda holds the distinction of being the first camp in the United States established specifically for children with diabetes. This historical foundation is woven into the camp’s mission to provide a safe, educational, and enjoyable camping experience for children managing diabetes. Here, campers learn to become more independent in their diabetes care through the supportive guidance of healthcare professionals and through sharing experiences with peers facing similar challenges.

At Camp Ho Mita Koda, they believe in fostering a nurturing environment where children can grow, learn, and have fun in a healthy, supportive setting. Their philosophy is rooted in building confidence, fostering independence, and creating lifelong friendships, all within a community that understands their unique needs.

Catering to boys and girls from various age groups, their camp offers a variety of programs that include traditional camp activities like swimming, hiking, and arts and crafts, as well as specific educational sessions focused on diabetes care and management. Each session is designed to empower their campers, promoting an enriching summer experience that combines fun with meaningful life skills development.

Programs Offered by Camp Ho Mita Koda

Camp Ho Mita Koda offers a variety of programs designed to cater to the interests and needs of children with diabetes, providing them with a rich and fulfilling camp experience. Here’s an overview of their camp programs:

General Camp Sessions

Their general camp sessions are structured to provide a balanced mix of fun, education, and personal growth opportunities. These sessions typically run for one or two weeks, allowing campers to immerse themselves in camp life without the long-term commitment of a full summer.

Specialty Programs

Arts Program: Campers explore their creativity through activities such as painting, sculpting, and performing arts. This program encourages self-expression and builds confidence in a supportive environment.
Sports Program: Focused on both team sports and individual activities, this program includes soccer, basketball, archery, and more. It promotes physical fitness and teamwork, all while ensuring safe practices for managing diabetes.
Science Exploration: This program delves into the practical and theoretical aspects of science, from environmental studies in their vast grounds to hands-on experiments that teach campers about the world around them.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM – Wake Up: Campers start the day with a morning check-in for their health and a nutritious breakfast.
9:00 AM – Morning Activities: These could include team sports, nature hikes, or arts and crafts, depending on the session’s focus for the day.
12:00 PM – Lunch: A balanced meal is provided with options tailored to manage and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
1:00 PM – Rest Period: Campers get some downtime to relax, write letters home, or just chat with friends.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities: This session might include swimming, science workshops, or special guest visits.
5:00 PM – Dinner: Another opportunity to enjoy a healthy meal together and discuss the day’s adventures.
6:00 PM – Evening Activities: Evening activities often include campfires, storytelling, or themed camp nights.
8:00 PM – Wind Down: Campers begin to wind down for the night with quieter activities or a night walk.
9:00 PM – Lights Out: After a busy day, it’s time to rest and recharge for another day of fun and learning.

Camp Ho Mita Koda’s programs are thoughtfully designed to ensure that all campers have a joyful and educational experience, balancing their health needs with the pleasures of traditional summer camp activities.

Accommodations in Camp Ho Mita Koda

Camp Ho Mita Koda provides a comfortable and safe environment, ensuring that all campers have a memorable and enjoyable stay. Here are the details of the accommodations available at their camp:

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers stay in cabins that are nestled among the trees, providing a rustic yet secure lodging experience. Each cabin is designed to house a small group of campers, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal belongings, and easy access to central facilities.

Dining Options

At Camp Ho Mita Koda, they understand the importance of nutrition, especially for children managing diabetes. Their dining services offer:

Balanced Meal Plans: Meals are crafted by nutritionists to ensure they are balanced and suitable for the dietary needs of children with diabetes. They provide three well-rounded meals per day, along with healthy snacks to manage energy levels and blood sugar throughout the day.
Dietary Accommodations: They cater to various dietary restrictions and preferences, including gluten-free, lactose-intolerant, vegetarian, and vegan options. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle different dietary needs, ensuring that every camper enjoys delicious and safe meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Each cabin area has its own centrally located bathroom and shower facility, which is shared among a few cabins to maintain cleanliness and accessibility. The facilities are modern and kept clean by their dedicated maintenance staff, ensuring hygiene and comfort for all campers. Bathrooms are equipped with multiple stalls and showers, with separate sections for privacy and convenience.

Their accommodations at Camp Ho Mita Koda are designed to make campers feel at home while providing them with the care and support they need to manage their health and enjoy their time at camp.

Activities in Camp Ho Mita Koda

Camp Ho Mita Koda is bustling with activities designed to engage campers in fun, learning, and personal growth. Here’s an overview of the various activities and special events that make their camp a special place for children:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Their camp features a swimming pool supervised by certified lifeguards, providing a safe environment for water-based fun and instruction.
Hiking: Surrounded by natural trails, campers enjoy guided hikes that explore the local flora and fauna, enhancing their appreciation for nature.
Crafts: From pottery to friendship bracelets, their arts and crafts sessions allow campers to express their creativity and take home personal mementos of their camp experience.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports including soccer, basketball, archery, and more, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water sports on the camp lake are a highlight for many campers, providing thrilling adventures and skills training under careful supervision.
Campfires: Evening campfires are a time for songs, stories, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and lasting friendships.

Special Events or Traditions

Color Wars: This camp-wide event divides campers into teams to compete in various fun and spirited activities, promoting camaraderie and teamwork.
Talent Show: At the end of each session, campers have the opportunity to showcase their talents, whether it’s singing, dancing, magic tricks, or comedy, in a supportive and enthusiastic environment.
Diabetes Education Days: Special days are dedicated to learning more about diabetes management through games and interactive workshops, empowering campers with knowledge and confidence in their health management.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Ho Mita Koda is committed to helping each camper grow both personally and in terms of specific skills:

Leadership Training: Summer camps can participate in leadership programs that prepare them to take on roles as mentors and leaders, both at camp and in their communities.
Environmental Education: Through activities like nature hikes and science experiments, campers learn about environmental stewardship and the importance of conservation.
Health and Wellness: Their program includes structured activities and informal discussions focused on healthy living, stress management, and the development of personal care routines that are particularly important for children with diabetes.

The diverse activities at Camp Ho Mita Koda ensure that every camper has the opportunity to try new things, develop skills, and make memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s through sports, arts, or special events, there’s something for everyone at their camp.

The staff of Camp Ho Mita Koda

The staff at Camp Ho Mita Koda are central to providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. They ensure that each member of their team is not only qualified but also deeply committed to the well-being and growth of their campers. Here’s an overview of their staff structure, hiring, and training processes:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They maintain a high staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that every camper receives personalized attention and care. Typically, their ratio is one staff member for every five campers, which allows us to closely monitor the health and safety of each child, particularly important for those managing diabetes.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They selectively recruit staff from a variety of sources, including top universities, recommendations from healthcare professionals, and connections within the diabetes care community.
Qualifications: All potential staff members must have previous experience in childcare, education, or a related field. Special preference is given to applicants who have a background in healthcare, especially in managing diabetes or those who have personal experience with diabetes.
Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks, including criminal history and references, are conducted for each candidate to ensure the safety and security of their campers.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the beginning of each camp season, all staff undergo extensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, diabetes management, and inclusive practices to ensure each camper feels valued and supported.
Health and Safety Certifications: All camp staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in handling diabetes emergencies is provided, which includes recognizing and treating low and high blood sugar levels.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, they conduct ongoing training sessions to refresh skills and update the staff on any advancements in diabetes care and educational methodologies.

Their commitment to maintaining a highly trained and dedicated staff ensures that Camp Ho Mita Koda not only meets but exceeds the standards of a safe and nurturing environment, where campers can enjoy their activities while managing their diabetes effectively.

Safety and Health in Camp Ho Mita Koda

Ensuring the safety and health of their campers, particularly those managing diabetes, is paramount at Camp Ho Mita Koda. They have comprehensive protocols and dedicated facilities to address any situation that may arise. Here’s a detailed look at their safety measures and health services:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills including fire, weather, and emergency medical scenarios to ensure that both staff and campers are familiar with procedures and can respond calmly and efficiently.
Supervision: Campers are supervised at all times by trained staff members. Activities are designed with a keen focus on safety, and appropriate gear and safeguards are used for all physical activities.
Secure Campus: The camp is equipped with secure entry and exit points, which are monitored to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Medical Clinic: Their on-site medical clinic is staffed with healthcare professionals skilled in pediatric care and diabetes management. The clinic is equipped to handle routine health checks and the management of diabetes, including blood glucose monitoring and insulin administration.
Qualified Health Staff: Their health staff includes registered nurses, a consulting pediatric endocrinologist, and trained diabetes educators who are available 24/7 to ensure that all health needs are met promptly and effectively.
Accessibility: The health facilities are centrally located within the camp to ensure easy access for all campers regardless of their activity location.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: They have a detailed emergency response plan tailored to various scenarios, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other critical situations. This plan is reviewed and updated annually in consultation with emergency services and health professionals.
Communication: In case of an emergency, there is a clear protocol for communication with parents and guardians. This includes immediate notification and ongoing updates as the situation progresses.
Training in Emergency Protocols: All staff members receive training on how to handle emergencies, including the use of emergency medical equipment and evacuation procedures.

At Camp Ho Mita Koda, the health and safety of their campers are integrated into every aspect of their programming. With state-of-the-art health facilities, rigorous safety protocols, and a highly trained staff, they ensure a secure environment where campers can focus on having fun and learning, while confidently managing their diabetes.

Cost and Registration in Camp Ho Mita Koda

Understanding the cost and registration details is essential for families planning to send their children to Camp Ho Mita Koda. They strive to make their camp accessible and affordable, with clear policies and support options available.

Cost of Attendance

Inclusive Fee: The cost of attendance varies depending on the length and type of session selected. Typically, fees cover all camp activities, lodging, meals, medical care, and supervision. The inclusive fee ensures that there are no additional costs for the camp experience.
What’s Included: The fee includes full participation in all programs, 24/7 medical oversight, all meals and snacks that are tailored to each camper’s dietary needs, accommodations, and any special events or excursions that are part of the camp session.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through their online portal, which opens on a specified date each year and remains open until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged as spaces are limited and fill up quickly.
Deadlines: Specific deadlines for registration are clearly communicated and direct communications to past participants and those who have expressed interest. It’s important to register before the deadline to secure a spot and complete all necessary medical and consent forms.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans to help spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable for families. These plans can be arranged at the time of registration.
Refunds and Cancellation: If you need to cancel your registration, a full or partial refund may be available depending on the timing of the cancellation. Typically, cancellations made well in advance of the session start date will receive a higher refund.
Cancellation Policy: Specific details of the cancellation policy are provided at registration, outlining how late cancellations due to emergencies are handled, including medical issues or unexpected family circumstances.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: They offer scholarships to ensure that no child is turned away due to financial constraints. These scholarships can cover partial or full costs of attending camp, depending on the family’s financial situation.
Financial Aid Application: Parents interested in applying for financial aid can do so through the registration process. Financial aid is awarded based on the need and availability of funds, and they encourage early application to ensure consideration.

At Camp Ho Mita Koda, they believe that every child deserves the enriching experience of summer camp, regardless of their financial situation. Their flexible payment options, comprehensive financial aid, and dedicated support aim to make camp accessible to as many children as possible.

Cost:

Overnight Camp: Prices range depending on the session and age group, but there is one session priced at $575.
Mini Camp: This program is for ages 4-8 and costs $125.
Family Camp: This program costs $125.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Ho Mita Koda

Preparing for camp can be an exciting time for both campers and their parents. At Camp Ho Mita Koda, they aim to make this process smooth and stress-free by providing clear guidelines and helpful tips. Here’s what you need to know to get ready for a great camp experience:

Packing List

Clothing: Pack comfortable clothing suitable for a variety of weather conditions, including warm days and cooler evenings. Include items such as T-shirts, shorts, long pants, sweatshirts, a jacket, and a raincoat.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for showers, and an extra pair of shoes in case one gets wet.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Don’t forget insect repellent!
Special Items: Any necessary diabetes supplies (extra beyond what the camp’s health clinic provides), including a blood glucose meter, test strips, insulin, and other medications.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, hat, sunglasses, and a water bottle.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are generally discouraged. If brought, they are collected and stored safely upon arrival and returned at the end of the session.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and structure of the program, general visitation during sessions is not permitted. However, specific family days or events will be scheduled and communicated in advance.
Other Policies: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the camp environment is expected at all times. Policies regarding behavior, bullying, and respect are clearly outlined in the camper handbook provided upon registration.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Embrace the experience! Try new activities, make new friends, and learn new skills.
- Communicate openly with camp staff about your needs, especially regarding health and comfort.
For Parents:
- Discuss what to expect at camp with your child, including the typical daily schedule and activities.
- Ensure all forms, especially health-related ones, are completed and submitted on time.
- Pack a personal item from home, like a favorite book or a family photo, to help ease any potential homesickness.

Preparing well for camp can make the difference between a good and a great camp experience. By following these guidelines and embracing the spirit of adventure, both campers and parents can look forward to a fulfilling time at Camp Ho Mita Koda.

Camp Ho Mita Koda is more than just a summer destination—it’s a vibrant community where children with diabetes can thrive in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. From the carefully planned activities and dedicated healthcare facilities to the experienced staff and comprehensive camper preparation, every aspect of Camp Ho Mita Koda is designed to ensure that each camper has an enriching, enjoyable, and educational experience. At Camp Ho Mita Koda, campers not only enjoy traditional summer camp fun but also gain valuable skills, friendships, and the confidence to manage their diabetes with greater independence.

Whether it’s their first summer or they are returning campers, all who come to Camp Ho Mita Koda leave with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of themselves and their capabilities. This camp stands as a testament to the power of community and the enduring spirit of joy and resilience.