Frequently Asked Questions
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COVID
Review COVID FAQ's here.
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LOGISTICS
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Who is able to attend Camp Easterseals Nebraska?
Simply put - everyone! We have a variety of sessions that fit all ability levels. For more information regarding our sessions, visit here. How do I sign up for camp?
To sign up for camp, first review Session Details, then read the Camper Application Instructions. Once you have done that, click here to apply! How many campers do you serve?
In 2019 we served 226 campers - that's an increase of 195% since 2016! Since 2021, we had to pivot our programs due to COVID, and limit each session to only about 10 campers. And now, we have begun pursuing the process of building our own Barrier Free Camp! Once our new camp is built, we will be able to serve a lot more campers again! |
Where is camp?
Review the Session Details page for the location of each respective session. Since 2021, each session is located in a different place across the state. How much is it and how do I pay?
Beginning in 2021, we implemented a Pick Your Price Tiered Pricing Model. Visit the Session Details page to see the various tiered prices per session. We also accept private pay, DD Waiver, A&D Waiver, and Lifespan Subsidy as payment. The waiver units per session are also listed within the Session Details page. For further explanation and details on payment options, visit here. |
CAMPDOC
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When is registration due?
Due to an increase in camper enrollment and the volume of camper cares and medications, it's extremely important to have all sections of CampDoc completed by THE DATE GIVEN in your ACCEPTANCE EMAIL. Why do you ask about PFDs? What are your rules around water?
We ask about PFDs as many parents & guardians request their camper wear a flotation device while in the pool, regardless of water depth. If you select "yes" to the PFD question, your camper will be required to wear a PFD in the 3-5' depth, even if they can touch, and will not be allowed to enter the deep end. For those that select "no" to the PFD question, campers will be allowed freely in the 3-5' depth and must past a swimming test to enter the deep end. Every camper must wear a PFD when they are canoeing and fishing, no matter what. |
How do you use ratios? What ratio does my camper fall under?
We use ratios to assign an appropriate number of campers to a select counselor. We use the American Camp Association's recommendations for ratios:
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PRECAMP / PREPARING FOR CAMP
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What information will be in my welcome packet?
You will be provided with a confirmation of dates and times of the camp session(s) you are registered for approximately 4-8 weeks from the session start date. Other important information that may be included in the packet are paper copies of our electronic policy, menu for the week, and how to properly pack medications. What is your policy on electronics?
Read our full electronics and social media policies here. Electronics such as phones, mp3s, and tablets are not recommended. Campers may use phones to make calls, text, browse, or use social media during designated times during the day. Campers who do not or are unable to respect this rule will be asked to place phone in a locking box that they can store it in. However, campers who use electronics as a tool to manage aspects of their disability can use them for this purpose. Please let us know more information about how your camper utilizes their device as a tool so we are all on the same page. Campers may use devices for pictures, as long as it isn't so frequent that it becomes disrupting or distracting from the experiences of camp. |
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CHECK IN & CHECK OUT
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What time does check in & check out begin?
Refer refer here for check in and out times. Please let us know in advance if you need to pick your camper up early! Parents or individuals picking up campers are REQUIRED to provide a photo ID that matches campdoc release information and sign their camper both in and out. |
What is the health screening during check in? During a typical season, the American Camp Association (ACA) requires camps perform a health screening within 24 hours of camper arrival. It includes a questionnaire for illness, verification of health history, & review and collection of medications. What is the award ceremony?
At the conclusion of select sessions, every counselor will present their camper(s) with a unique award that defines their successes for the week. |
DURING CAMP
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Do you post pictures during a camp session?
For 2023, we are unable to provide a formal photo provider service. However, our counselors and site directors do try to take some photos during the week, which are posted on Facebook. Some weeks this is easier than others. Staff are trained to prioritize camper safety, care, and social development over picture taking, so some weeks we aren't able to get as many photos as we would like. If this is something really important to you, please discuss this with your camper's camp counselor upon arrival to make a specific plan with them of which activities you'd like to see photos of. If you know someone who would like to volunteer to take pictures at any point during the summer, let us know, we'd love to make this better! |
CONTACT & STAFF INFO
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How do I get in contact with someone during the off season?
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Camp Easterseals Nebraska [email protected] or [email protected] Can you tell me some information about your camp staff?
All staff are background checked and trained on abuse prevention. Each session will have a Site Director, RN, and camp counselors. All of our camp counselors undergo extensive training on lifts and transfers, personal cares and camp programming, along with a background check. In addition, we train all staff in CPI Non-Violent Crisis Intervention to aid in the de-escalation of behaviors. We strive to hire only the most compassionate, patient, fun, and hardworking staff. Our camp counselors are are primarily composed of young adults pursuing careers in Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Nursing, Education, Special Education, and Recreational Therapy. Many of our staff already work in their career fields and spend their summer vacations and weekends off with our campers. Note: Due to a lack of interested male staff applicants, we often utilize female camp counselors to serve our male campers. If your camper has issues, concerns, or behaviors towards females, be sure to make note of this in CampDoc so we can hopefully secure a male counselor for your camper. If you know any men who would be a great Camp Counselor, send them our way! |
How do I get in contact with someone during a camp session?
Our off season numbers and emails remain in effect all year round. In case of an emergency, you may call the camp cell phone at 402-759-2038. Please note, this number is only reachable when camp is in session. Can you tell me some information about your medical staff?
We currently have 2 Registered Nurses, and a doctor on-call on our medical team - all who have extensive experience working with youth and adults with disabilities and serious medical conditions. One nurse is on-site at all times while camp is in session. If your camper has a medical condition that you are concerned about, don't be afraid to ask! Our medical team give their whole heart to the care of our campers and want you and your camper to be at ease while in our care. |
