First Time Campers

JOINING OUR

FAMILY

Each summer, approximately 30% of our campers are first time campers. Though it can be intimidating to think about leaving home, campers quickly find new friends and make themselves at home at Sweeney. From the moment they arrive on opening day, campers are assigned a counselor as their big sibling – someone to answer questions and check in with them each day. Whether arriving for your first summer or returning for another year, every camper is a part of the Sweeney family!

A New Parent's

Perspective

“This was our son’s first time at camp and he, and we, felt it was everything we hoped for and much more.”

“The program offers a safe, risk free, fun environment which allows children to be authentic.”

WHY

18 DAYS?

Camp Sweeney is not just a summer camp, it’s a way of living. Our goal is not only to teach campers how to manage their diabetes, but also to instill in them the motivation to do so. 75 years of experience has taught us that it takes time to accomplish this goal. Summer session days of forming healthy habits, instilling confidence, and building friendships allows camper to return home with a renewed sense of self, strengthened by the knowledge they have gained and the relationships they have developed.

STAY

CONNECTED

Keeping parents connected to their camper during each session is very important! Although we ask campers to leave their phones at home, there are a variety of ways for them to stay connected with friends and family. Each of our cabins is equipped with computers that parents can email directly using their online accounts. Responses are handwritten by campers, scanned by our office staff, and then sent back to parents. Snail mail and care packages sent by friends and family are also distributed to campers every day at lunch during Mail Call. We also have daily livestreams for parents at home to see their campers and watch them participate in various activities.

STAFF

UPDATES

While their child is at camp, parents will receive updates from the counselors and medical staff. Counselors will let you know how your camper is adjusting to camp and enjoying their activities while the medical staff will keep you updated on any changes in their insulin regimens. Counselors also post photos on their cabin’s website each evening.

LIVE

BROADCASTS

One of the coolest ways to stay connected during camp is by tuning in to our live broadcasts! Each evening, parents can watch high definition broadcasts of our “Flag Lowering” program and catch a glimpse of their child in action! We will also broadcast special evening events like Campfires, Talent Shows, the Olympic Games, and Awards Night. Replays are available online so you never miss a moment!

ADJUSTING TO

CAMP

For many campers, being away from home for the first time can be challenging. The Camp Sweeney program is very well suited to overcome these challenges. Our counselors are specially trained to help each camper overcome any anxieties they may develop at camp and become comfortable with the environment around them. If your child shows signs of missing home, our counselors will contact you and keep you updated on their progress. In most cases, these anxieties disappears quickly after campers adjust to their new routines and begin forming connections with other campers.

WHAT TO

BRING

In addition to typical summer clothing, bedding, and toiletries, there are many special events at camp that you’ll want your camper to be prepared for!

• Every Wednesday at camp is Fight Song Wednesday. Campers and staff dress in their favorite college gear and cheer for their schools at dinner.
• Thursdays are made for wearing purple! Purple Power Day is a serious camp tradition, so you’ll want to bring as much purple as you can!
• Please visit our Quick Facts page for a complete list of items.

SPECIAL

EVENTS

Three of the biggest and most popular camp events each session are our dances. Each dance has a theme, and campers are encouraged to go all out with their costumes! The themes for this summer are Luau, Halloween, and Neon! The final night of each session is our Awards Banquet and Code of Living ceremony. Campers are encouraged to dress up and celebrate the conclusion of the session.

Parents will receive a full packing list prior to the start of your session.