THE BOGGY CREEK GANG INC
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Mission Statement
Camp Boggy Creek makes it possible for children with serious illnesses and their families to experience a free, life-changing camp where safety, respect, love, and joy come together to enrich their physical and behavioral health.
About This Cause
Across Florida, thousands of children wake up each day facing the challenges of serious illnesses like cancer, heart disease, sickle cell anemia, immune disorders, and epilepsy. Frequent hospital visits and ongoing treatments often steal the joys of childhood, leading to missed school, isolation, and emotional struggles for the entire family. In Florida, 15% of children live with chronic conditions, many also cope with anxiety and depression as they navigate a world that often feels limiting. At Camp Boggy Creek, we believe every child deserves the chance to experience the joy of childhood—regardless of their medical condition. Our Summer Camp Program is specifically designed for children ages 7-17 living with serious illnesses, providing a traditional, fun-filled camp experience in a medically safe environment—completely free of charge. Each summer, we host multiple week-long sessions, welcoming up to 150 children per session, where they participate in adaptive activities that build confidence, promote mental well-being, and encourage physical activity—all while accommodating their unique health needs. For children who have spent more time in hospital rooms than on playgrounds, Camp Boggy Creek is more than just fun—it’s a place to belong, heal, and thrive. Program Activities and Services: Camp Boggy Creek provides a wide range of therapeutic and recreational activities, including: • Equestrian Program: Fully accessible horseback riding experiences that help build confidence and self-esteem. • Swimming: Adaptive swimming sessions with lifeguards and medical staff on-site. • Archery: Opportunities for campers to develop focus and resilience by aiming for bullseyes. • Arts and Crafts: Creative outlets for self-expression and emotional healing. • Theater: A full theater, dreamed up by our founder Paul Newman, to inspire children to forget fitting in, and learn that they belong. • Adventure Activities: Zip-lining, boating & fishing, and other activities tailored to campers' abilities. Every activity is intentionally designed to inspire resilience and foster new friendships, while also helping children build lasting memories of independence and accomplishment. Impact and Evaluation: At Camp Boggy Creek’s Summer Camp Program, children with serious illnesses find more than just fun—they find a place where they truly belong. Through expertly facilitated recreation therapy and fully accessible activities, campers gain confidence, build friendships, and experience the joys of childhood in a medically safe environment. The magic of camp lives on through the stories families share and the smiles that linger long after summer ends. We cherish the heartfelt thank-you letters from parents and campers, where they express the joy, friendships, and newfound confidence that camp has given them. To ensure every child’s experience is as impactful as possible, we also gather surveys and questionnaires that help us understand the growth in friendship skills, confidence, and overall happiness. These reflections—both in words and in data—guide us in continuing to create a place where children with serious illnesses can truly belong, heal, and thrive. Twins Gabe and Angelica never imagined they could attend camp. Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a condition affecting their skin, joints, and blood vessels, they worried about standing out and whether their complex medical needs could be accommodated. Gabe’s fragile skin and scars made outdoor play risky, while Angelica’s joint instability often held her back. “They quite simply could never attend camp anywhere, except for Camp Boggy Creek,” says their mother, Tara. “Their illness kept them from being safe, but once they attended summer camp, both of my children thrived.” At Camp, with specialized medical supervision, Gabe and Angelica explored new activities they never thought possible. Gabe discovered a love for theater, realizing that standing out among friends was empowering. Angelica fell in love with archery, a sport she could safely enjoy. She now competes in tournaments, carrying the confidence she found at Camp into the world beyond our gates. Like Gabe and Angelica, 76% of campers leave with strong friendships, and 98% report increased confidence. Every moment at Camp Boggy Creek—whether on the archery range, on stage, or by the campfire—creates resilience, belonging, and hope that last a lifetime. Community and Family Engagement: In addition to our summer sessions, Camp Boggy Creek offers family retreats that welcome parents, caregivers, and siblings to experience camp together. These retreats provide families with respite, emotional support, and shared experiences that strengthen family bonds. Parents often leave feeling more supported, connected, and better equipped to navigate the challenges of caring for a child with a serious illness. Conclusion: At Camp Boggy Creek, every child leaves with more than just cherished memories—they leave with hope, empowerment, and the tools to thrive. Together, we can continue transforming lives and creating lasting impact for children and families facing the challenges of serious illnesses.