Easterseals Camp Sorrento, located in the heart of Florida, offers a picturesque setting for campers to explore, learn, and grow. Nestled within a serene region known for its natural beauty, the camp is easily accessible from major cities yet far enough to provide a tranquil escape. Notable landmarks surrounding Camp Sorrento include the lush Sorrento Springs and the vibrant Lake Eustis, making it a prime location for adventure and discovery.

The camp’s roots trace back to its establishment with the mission to provide an inclusive, nurturing environment for children and young adults. Through its rich history, Easterseals Camp Sorrento has evolved into a beacon of empowerment, diversity, and growth, continually adapting to meet the changing needs of its campers.

At the heart of Easterseals Camp Sorrento is its mission to ensure that every child is given the opportunity to reach their full potential. The camp’s philosophy centers on fostering a supportive community where campers can build confidence, develop skills, and form lasting friendships. With a focus on inclusivity and personal development, the camp strives to offer a comprehensive experience that enriches the lives of its participants.

Easterseals Camp Sorrento caters to both boys and girls across various age groups. Designed to accommodate a wide range of interests and abilities, the camp offers a diverse array of programs and activities. Whether it’s outdoor exploration, creative arts, or team-building exercises, campers are encouraged to engage fully and embrace the joys of childhood in a safe and supportive setting.

Programs Offered by Easterseals Camp

Easterseals Camp Sorrento takes pride in offering a wide range of programs tailored to cater to the diverse interests and needs of its campers. The camp’s programming is meticulously designed to encourage exploration, creativity, and personal growth, ensuring that every camper has the opportunity to thrive and enjoy an unforgettable summer experience.

Programs Offered:

Outdoor Adventure Program: This program is designed for campers who love the great outdoors. Activities include hiking, camping skills workshops, and environmental education. Sessions typically last one week, with options to extend to two weeks for a more immersive experience.
Creative Arts Program: Easterseals Camp aimed at nurturing creativity, this program offers workshops in visual arts, theater, music, and dance. Campers can choose to focus on a specific area or explore multiple disciplines. Sessions are one week long, with the option to attend multiple sessions over the summer to explore different art forms.
Sports and Recreation Program: This program caters to young athletes and sports enthusiasts, offering a variety of team sports and individual physical activities. From soccer and basketball to yoga and swimming, there’s something for everyone. Each session lasts one week, with the flexibility to sign up for consecutive weeks to try different sports.
STEM Exploration Program: Perfect for curious minds, this program offers hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering, and math. Campers can engage in experiments, coding projects, and robotics workshops. Sessions run for two weeks, providing ample time for in-depth exploration.
Leadership Development Program: Designed for older campers, this program focuses on building leadership skills, teamwork, and personal development. Activities include leadership workshops, community service projects, and mentorship opportunities. This is a two-week program, ideal for those looking to grow as leaders.

Specialty Programs:

Aquatic Adventures: An add-on to any program, focusing on water-based activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and water safety.
Artistic Expressions: A specialized track within the Creative Arts Program, emphasizing advanced techniques and project-based learning in the arts.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM: Wake Up & Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Program Session (e.g., Art Workshop, Soccer Practice)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest Period/Free Time
2:00 PM: Afternoon Program Session (e.g., Science Experiment, Hiking Trip)
5:00 PM: Free Time/Recreational Activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Activities (Campfire, Talent Show, Group Games)
9:00 PM: Campers to Cabins
9:30 PM: Lights Out

Easterseals Camp Sorrento’s programs are designed to balance structured learning and free play, ensuring campers have a well-rounded experience that promotes personal growth, learning, and fun. Whether a camper is joining for one week or the full summer, they are sure to leave with new skills, friendships, and memories to last a lifetime.

Accommodations in Easterseals Camp

Easterseals Camp Sorrento provides a variety of accommodations designed to ensure a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable camping experience for all participants. Understanding the importance of a good night’s rest and proper nutrition, the camp has developed facilities and meal plans that cater to the needs of every camper.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Easterseals Camp the primary accommodation at Camp Sorrento consists of cozy, well-ventilated cabins. Each cabin can house 8-10 campers along with 2 counselors, ensuring supervision and a family-like atmosphere. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and are situated in scenic areas of the camp to provide a true outdoor experience while maintaining comfort.
Tents: For specific programs focused on outdoor adventure, there are options to sleep in tents. This allows campers to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness experience under the guidance and supervision of experienced counselors. Tents are typically set up in secure, designated camping areas within the camp’s grounds.
Dorms: For older campers or specific leadership programs, dormitory-style accommodations may be available. These facilities provide a more private and mature environment, suitable for group discussions, personal development activities, and quieter evenings.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Easterseals Camp Sorrento operates a central dining hall where campers enjoy nutritious, balanced meals prepared by experienced culinary staff. The camp offers three meals a day, along with healthy snacks. Meal times are considered an important part of the camp experience, promoting social interaction and community building.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to individual dietary needs, the camp is fully equipped to accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions and preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergies. Parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary needs during the registration process to ensure that their child’s requirements are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Facilities: Easterseals Camp Sorrento is equipped with modern, clean bathroom and shower facilities. These facilities are conveniently located near all sleeping accommodations, ensuring easy access for all campers. Separate facilities are provided for boys and girls, and they are designed to maintain privacy and cleanliness.
Hygiene Practices: The camp emphasizes the importance of hygiene, providing facilities with hot water, sinks, toilets, and individual shower stalls. Regular cleaning schedules are maintained to ensure the highest standards of cleanliness and sanitation.

At Easterseals Camp Sorrento, the comfort and safety of campers are paramount. From the moment they wake up in their cozy accommodations to their diverse dining experiences and the convenience of modern bathroom facilities, every aspect of their stay is designed to make their camping experience memorable, comfortable, and fun.

Activities in Easterseals Camp

Easterseals Camp Sorrento offers a wide array of activities, special events, and opportunities for skill development designed to engage campers of all interests and abilities. The camp’s diverse programming ensures that every camper has the chance to explore new interests, challenge themselves, and enjoy the classic camp experience.

Activities Offered:

Swimming: From instructional swim lessons for beginners to free swim sessions for more advanced swimmers, the camp provides a safe and fun environment for campers to enjoy the water.
Hiking: Summer camps can explore the natural beauty surrounding the camp on guided hikes. These excursions vary in difficulty to accommodate different age groups and skill levels.
Crafts: A wide range of craft activities allows campers to express their creativity, from traditional arts and crafts like painting and pottery to more unique offerings like woodworking and jewelry making.
Sports: The camp offers a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and more, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Adventure Activities: For the thrill-seekers, activities like rock climbing, zip-lining, and canoeing provide an adrenaline rush while emphasizing safety and teamwork.
Nature and Science: Campers can engage in environmental education through activities like gardening, animal care, and STEM projects, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world and an interest in science.
Performing Arts: Those interested in the performing arts can participate in drama workshops, dance classes, and music sessions, culminating in performances for fellow campers.

Special Events or Traditions:

Campfire Nights: An essential camp tradition, campfire nights often include storytelling, sing-alongs, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community among campers.
Color Wars: This spirited competition divides the camp into teams for a series of fun and engaging challenges, promoting camaraderie and team spirit.
Talent Show: Campers have the opportunity to showcase their talents, whether it’s singing, dancing, magic tricks, or other unique skills, in a supportive and enthusiastic environment.
Theme Days: Throughout the session, special theme days (such as Superhero Day or Backwards Day) add a fun twist to activities and encourage creativity and participation.

Skill Development Opportunities:

The camp is not just about fun and games; it also focuses on developing valuable life skills through its activities:

Leadership: Through team sports, group projects, and leadership roles in activities, campers can develop leadership skills such as communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution.
Independence: Participation in a range of activities encourages campers to step out of their comfort zones, make decisions, and develop a sense of independence.
Collaboration: Many activities are designed to be collaborative, teaching campers the importance of teamwork, empathy, and working together towards common goals.

Easterseals Camp Sorrento’s diverse offerings ensure that every camper can find something they love, all while developing important life skills in a fun and supportive environment. The blend of activities, special events, and traditions creates an unforgettable summer experience that campers look forward to year after year.

The staff of Easterseals Camp

Easterseals Camp Sorrento prides itself on providing a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for campers, which is largely made possible by its dedicated and highly qualified staff. The camp maintains a strict set of criteria for hiring, alongside comprehensive training programs, to ensure that all staff members are not only qualified but also share in the camp’s mission and values.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

Easterseals Camp Sorrento adheres to a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and a safe environment. The typical ratio is 1 staff member to every 5 campers. This ratio allows staff to engage with each camper individually, understand their needs, and ensure they are getting the most out of their camp experience. For programs requiring more intensive supervision or specialized activities, the ratio may be even lower.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo comprehensive background checks, including criminal records, to ensure the safety and security of the campers.
Experience and Passion: Candidates are selected based on their experience working with children, their educational background in relevant fields (such as education, psychology, or recreation), and their passion for fostering growth and development in young people.
Diversity and Inclusion: The camp seeks staff who represent a diversity of experiences and backgrounds, enriching the camp community and providing campers with a broad range of role models.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff members participate in an extensive pre-camp training program. This program covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child development, behavior management strategies, and activity planning.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training may be required for staff involved in specific activities (e.g., lifeguard certification for swimming instructors).
Ongoing Education: The camp is committed to the continuous professional development of its staff. Throughout the camp season, there are opportunities for staff to participate in workshops and training sessions to further their skills and knowledge in areas such as leadership, inclusivity, and program development.

Specialized Staff:

For activities that require specialized skills or knowledge, Easterseals Camp Sorrento employs experts in those fields. For example, activities like rock climbing, swimming, or horseback riding are led by staff members with specific qualifications and experience in those areas. This ensures that all activities are not only fun but also adhere to the highest safety standards.

The dedication and expertise of the staff at Easterseals Camp Sorrento are foundational to its success. By maintaining high standards for hiring, training, and ongoing education, the camp ensures that every camper benefits from a supportive, enriching, and safe environment.

Safety and Health in Easterseals Camp

Easterseals Camp Sorrento places the highest priority on the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining on-site health facilities to ensure a secure environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Comprehensive Safety Plan: The camp has a detailed safety plan that includes protocols for a wide range of scenarios, from minor injuries to emergency evacuations. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to meet current safety standards.
Activity-Specific Safety Guidelines: Each activity offered at the camp has its own set of safety guidelines, which are strictly enforced. These guidelines are designed to prevent accidents and injuries and include the use of appropriate safety gear, supervision ratios, and skill-level adjustments.
Regular Safety Drills: Campers and staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire drills and emergency evacuation exercises, to ensure everyone knows how to respond in a variety of emergency situations.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: The camp maintains an on-site health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and/or a visiting physician. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses, and staff are trained to manage chronic conditions or administer medications as needed.
24/7 Availability: Health center staff are available 24 hours a day, ensuring that medical care is always accessible. The health center is also stocked with essential medications and first aid supplies.
Health Screening: Upon arrival, campers undergo a health screening to identify any existing medical conditions or special healthcare needs. This allows the health staff to provide personalized care and make necessary accommodations.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Contact System: The camp has a robust system in place for quickly contacting local emergency services and parents/guardians in the event of a serious incident or health concern.
Transportation for Emergencies: Arrangements are in place for immediate transportation to the nearest hospital or medical facility if specialized care is needed beyond what can be provided at the camp’s health center.
Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, the camp has a clear communication protocol to inform and update parents/guardians, ensuring transparency and providing reassurance during critical situations.

Easterseals Camp Sorrento is committed to creating a safe and healthy camping experience. Through its comprehensive safety protocols, dedicated health staff, and well-established policies for handling emergencies, the camp ensures that campers can enjoy all the activities and opportunities offered with peace of mind for both them and their families.

Cost and Registration in Easterseals Camp

Easterseals Camp Sorrento ensures a transparent and accessible registration process, along with a structured cost framework, to accommodate families with varying financial capabilities. Here’s an overview of the cost, registration, and financial policies designed to make the camp experience as inclusive and stress-free as possible.

Cost of Attendance:

The cost of attending Easterseals Camp Sorrento varies depending on the length of the session, the type of program selected, and any additional options (such as specialized activities). Generally, the cost covers:

All program and activity fees
Accommodation and meals
Access to all camp facilities and equipment
Health and wellness services

Families are encouraged to review the specific costs associated with their chosen session and program on the camp’s website or by contacting the camp directly.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: The camp typically offers an easy online registration process through its website, where families can select their desired session(s) and fill out necessary camper information.
Deadlines: Registration deadlines are usually set a few months before the start of the camp season. Early registration is encouraged as spaces in popular sessions can fill up quickly.
Confirmation: Once registered, families will receive a confirmation email with additional details about preparing for camp, including a packing list and any required medical forms.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Understanding that the cost of camp can be a significant expense for families, Easterseals Camp Sorrento may offer payment plans to spread the cost over several months.
Refunds and Cancellation: The camp typically has a cancellation policy that allows for refunds up to a certain date, minus a non-refundable deposit. Specifics can vary, so it’s important to understand these policies at the time of registration.
Late Registration: If spaces are still available, late registration may be accepted with an additional fee.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Easterseals Camp Sorrento is committed to making camp accessible to all children and often provides scholarships based on financial need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, the camp may have other financial aid options available. Families are encouraged to inquire about these opportunities well in advance of registration deadlines.

Easterseals Camp Sorrento aims to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent any child from enjoying a rewarding camp experience. By offering a range of financial assistance options and maintaining clear communication about costs and policies, the camp works to accommodate and support families from diverse backgrounds. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on costs, registration, and financial assistance, families should contact the camp directly or visit its official website.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Easterseals Camp

Preparing for a session at Easterseals Camp Sorrento is an exciting venture for both campers and their parents, especially for those who are new to the camp experience. Proper preparation ensures that campers can make the most of their time, participating fully in all activities and embracing the camp community. Below is a guide to help first-time campers and parents get ready for an unforgettable summer.

Packing List:

A well-thought-out packing list is essential for a comfortable and worry-free camp experience. While specific needs may vary depending on the session and activities chosen, here are some general items to include:

Clothing for all weather: Include warm layers for cooler evenings and lightweight, breathable options for daytime. Remember rain gear and a sturdy pair of walking shoes or hiking boots.
Bedding: Check if you need to bring a sleeping bag or bedding for a twin-size bed, along with a pillow.
Toiletries: Include basics like toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Don’t forget insect repellent!
Towels: Pack at least one beach towel and one bath towel.
Water bottle: Staying hydrated is key, especially during outdoor activities.
Flashlight or headlamp: Essential for evening activities and nighttime navigation around camp.
Medications: Clearly label all medications and provide detailed instructions for camp health staff.
Daypack: For carrying daily essentials like a water bottle, sunscreen, and any needed personal items.

Rules and Policies:

Familiarize yourself and your camper with the camp’s rules and policies to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone:

Technology Use: Many camps encourage a break from screens to help campers connect with their surroundings and each other. Understand the camp’s policy on smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices.
Visitation: Learn about the camp’s policies regarding visitation and communication. Some camps may have specific visiting days or prefer letters and emails over phone calls.
Behavior Expectations: Review the camp’s code of conduct with your camper, emphasizing respect, responsibility, and community.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Open Communication: Talk about what to expect at camp, including the exciting activities and the opportunity to make new friends. Address any anxieties and emphasize the positive aspects of the camp experience.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to take on more responsibility at home in the weeks leading up to camp, such as packing their own bag or managing their daily routine.
Stay Positive: It’s normal for both parents and children to feel a bit nervous about camp. Focus on the positive and exciting aspects of the experience, and trust that the camp staff are trained to handle homesickness and any concerns that may arise.

Preparing for camp is not just about packing the right items; it’s also about preparing mentally and emotionally for a new adventure. By following these guidelines, first-time campers and their parents can ensure a smooth transition to camp life, setting the stage for a summer filled with growth, learning, and fun.

Easterseals Camp Sorrento stands as a vibrant testament to the power of summer camp in enriching the lives of young people. Through its diverse range of programs, dedicated staff, and a strong emphasis on safety and inclusivity, the camp offers a unique environment where campers can explore their interests, develop new skills, and forge lasting friendships. The thoughtful preparation guidelines for parents and campers, alongside a commitment to accessibility through financial aid and scholarships, ensure that the camp experience is within reach for all families, regardless of their financial situation.

The camp’s approach to blending fun with personal growth, learning with adventure, and community living with individual development captures the essence of what a summer camp should be—a place of transformation and joy. Whether a camper is drawn to the arts, sports, outdoor exploration, or STEM, Easterseals Camp Sorrento is a place where they can thrive, challenge themselves, and discover new passions.