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Founded by the team behind Brainy Camps with nearly 30 years of experience, Brainy Ridge provides condition-specific summer camps for children with Neurofibromatosis, Diabetes, Autism, Epilepsy, heart conditions, and more. Apply today! More than a Camp, We're a Community. The Brainy Ridge EXPERIENCE Brainy Ridge Inc. is a non-profit organization that provides condition-specific residential summer camps for children and teens living with chronic health conditions. Our goal is to provide an experience that is both fun and supportive, where campers can build new friendships and develop their skills in a safe and caring environment. Learn About Us Summer 2027 Registration is Open for Get ready for another unforgettable summer at Brainy Ridge! Registration is now open for Summer 2027. Join us for fun, friendship, and memories that last a lifetime. We can't wait to see our returning campers and welcome new faces! REGISTER NOW Camp Should Be Accessible to Every Child We believe every child should have the opportunity to experience the joy, friendship, and independence that camp provides — regardless of financial circumstances. That’s why Brainy Ridge offers flexible tuition options, scholarships, and payment plans to help make camp accessible to more families. Our Tiered Tuition Program allows families to choose the tuition level that works best for their financial situation, with additional scholarship assistance available for families who need it. No matter which tuition option you choose, every camper receives the same unforgettable Brainy Ridge experience. If you have questions about tuition, scholarships, or payment options, please reach out. We’re here to help make sure your child can join us for a life-changing summer! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

WAYS TO HELP Imagine a place where children with chronic illnesses can escape the daily challenges they face, where they can laugh, play, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Brainy Ridge Camp is that special place, but we can’t do it alone. Please consider joining us in giving these kids a chance to experience the freedom of childhood. You’re giving them friendships, adventure, and moments of pure happiness in an environment designed to meet their medical needs safely. If you are interested in joining us or have questions about how to donate, please reach out to admin@brainyridge.com Join Our Summer Staff Do you want to be part of something truly meaningful? This summer, you can make a lasting impact on the lives of children with chronic illnesses by joining our team at Brainy Ridge Camp! LEARN MORE Volunteer From tabling at local events to fundraising in your community to lending a hand with camp prep, there are endless ways for you to contribute throughout the year. Your time and energy will directly support these amazing children in having the summer of a lifetime. LEARN MORE Donate Every donation, no matter the size, helps us create a summer filled with joy and hope for children who need it the most. DONATE

Find answers to common questions about Brainy Ridge's programs, registration, accommodations, and more in our frequently updated FAQ section—refreshed based on your questions! FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS General Information Registration & Companion App Medical Management Donations Where is the camp located? Brainy Ridge is located at Blue Ridge School in St. George, Virginia. Is transportation available for campers? Yes, we provide transportation to and from Blue Ridge School in St. George, Virginia. As camp approaches, we'll share more details. If you have specific transportation needs or questions, just let us know—we're here to help! Transportation is arranged based on availability and demand. What should my child bring to camp? The camp packing list is available in the Companion App for your convenience. Please be sure to review it carefully as you prepare for camp.We’d like to emphasize a few important items to remember:Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is key, and we encourage all campers to bring their own reusable water bottle.Sunscreen: Protecting against sunburn is essential, so don't forget to pack sunscreen.Bug spray: To keep the bugs at bay, make sure to include some insect repellent. What happens during the check-in and check-out processes? When you arrive at camp, our staff will guide you through the check-in process. You’ll need to: 1. Complete any necessary forms: If you haven’t already submitted all required paperwork, there may be a few forms to fill out at check-in. 2. Medical check: Our medical staff will review your child’s health information and any medications being brought to camp. A lice check will be performed and temperature will be taken. Be sure to have medications in their original bottles, and if applicable, a pill organizer. 3. Meet the counselors and tour the facilities: Your child will have the opportunity to meet their counselor and get settled into their room. Staff will be available to help your camper with unpacking and to ensure that there are no restricted items/medications/food in the bunks. Our staff will be available to answer any questions and help you get your camper settled in for a smooth transition. At the end of camp, here’s what to expect for check-out: 1. Arrive at the scheduled check-out time: Please be on time for pick-up. If you are running late, contact the camp office to let them know. There is an awards ceremony on the final morning of each camp. Families are encouraged to attend to hear about your camper's week! Information about awards ceremony times will be released in the latter half of the camp week. 2. Sign out your camper: A staff member will ensure you’re authorized to pick up your child and will ask you to sign out. You’ll also be given any remaining belongings or items. 3. Complete medical check-out: A medical staff member will review your child's week and return leftover medications and supplies. 3. Discuss the camper’s experience: This is a great opportunity to speak with the counselors or camp staff about your child’s time at camp and ask any questions you might have. Please remember that early check-out or late pick-up needs to be arranged in advance. We want to ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable experience for all campers during both check-in and check-out. How are staff selected? Our staff members are carefully selected to ensure the safety and well-being of all campers. To be considered for a position, all staff must go through a thorough process that includes: Interviews: Every potential staff member is interviewed to ensure they are a good fit for the camp environment. References: Staff are required to provide references that are reviewed as part of the selection process. Background Check: All staff undergo a comprehensive background check to ensure a safe environment for the children. Additionally, to ensure they are fully prepared, our staff members participate in: Pre-Camp Training: Before camp begins, staff complete extensive training to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary for their roles. Condition-Specific Weekly Training: Each week, staff also complete specialized training to address the unique needs of the campers and the conditions they may face. We take these steps seriously to ensure our staff is not only qualified but also prepared to provide a safe, positive, and enriching experience for all campers. What is the counselor-to-camper ratio? Supervision and individualized attention are essential for creating a safe and enriching camp environment. Brainy Ridge Camps generally maintains a 1:3 or 1:4 ratio for all camps. What are the sleeping arrangements at camp? Campers stay in dorms, with several rooms in a hall forming their "bunk." Each room houses 2 to 4 campers and is supervised by a dedicated counselor who ensures a safe and supportive environment. This setup helps create a close-knit community while giving each camper the attention and care they need to thrive. How is homesickness handled? It’s natural for campers to miss home, especially if it’s their first time away. Our staff is trained to support campers through homesickness with a compassionate and proactive approach: Encouragement & Engagement: We keep campers busy with fun activities, helping them stay engaged and build friendships. Supportive Staff: Counselors provide reassurance, listen to concerns, and help campers develop confidence in being away from home. Letter Writing: Campers are encouraged to write letters home, which can be a comforting way to share their experiences. Gradual Adjustment: In most cases, homesickness fades as campers settle in and enjoy their time. Communication with Parents: If a camper is struggling significantly, camp staff may reach out to parents to discuss the best approach. Our goal is to help campers gain independence while ensuring they feel supported and cared for throughout their stay. How can parents and campers communicate during camp? To help campers fully immerse themselves in the camp experience, we encourage families not to send cell phones due to limited service and internet access. If a phone is brought, it must remain inside the cabin at all times. There are still plenty of ways to stay in touch: Camp Communication: If you need to reach your child, contact the camp office, and we’ll ensure they receive your message. Letters: Campers are encouraged to write letters home to share their experiences. Care Packages: Parents can send or drop off care packages during check-in for campers to open later in the week. Emergency Contact: In case of an emergency, camp staff will notify parents immediately. We believe that limiting phone use helps campers build friendships, develop independence, and enjoy outdoor fun. Thank you for supporting this positive camp environment! Note: During Type 1 Diabetes Camp, campers may keep their phones if used as a medical management device. Will food be provided? How are dietary restrictions handled? The camp’s food is prepared in the school kitchen by SAGE Dining Services, a trusted provider known for their commitment to quality and nutrition. They work closely with us to ensure all meals are delicious, nutritious, and catered to the needs of our campers. We are happy to accommodate any dietary requirements or restrictions, such as allergies, vegetarian or vegan preferences, gluten-free, or other specific needs. Please note that the Blue Ridge School is a nut-free campus. If your child has any special dietary requests, please let us know in advance, and we’ll ensure those needs are met during camp. Our goal is to provide a variety of tasty and balanced meals that keep our campers energized and satisfied throughout the day! How do I contact someone from Brainy Ridge? We’d love to talk with you.Email: admin@brainyridge.com Phone: (434) 260- 3315Alyssa and the team are here to answer questions, walk you through what Brainy Ridge is really like, and help you figure out if it’s the right fit for your family!Don’t hesitate to reach out. These conversations matter, and we make time for them. We understand that you may have many questions, and we’re committed to providing you with the most accurate and up-to-date information. As new questions come in, we will update this page. If you don’t see the answer to your question here, feel free to reach out to us directly, and we’ll be happy to assist you!

Join our dedicated team at Brainy Ridge as a volunteer, staff member, or part of our medical team! Help create an unforgettable camp experience by supporting children with diverse needs. Whether you’re looking to make a difference, grow your skills, or contribute to a positive and inclusive environment, we welcome your involvement. Become a part of our mission to provide a safe and enriching camp experience! HOW YOU CAN HELP Be a part of something truly special. Join the Brainy Ridge Camp family and help us create an incredible summer for children who need it most. Together, we can bring joy, hope, and fun into their lives. Why Volunteer or Join Our Team? Be a part of something bigger: This isn’t just another summer job or volunteer opportunity. You’ll be changing lives, including your own, by creating memories and experiences that last forever. Develop new skills: Working with children with chronic illnesses is incredibly rewarding, but also a chance to learn new skills, deepen your empathy, and grow as a person. Meet incredible people: Our team is filled with dedicated, inspiring individuals from all walks of life. You’ll form lasting friendships and become part of a community that is passionate about making a difference. Who Can Join? Whether you’re a seasoned professional or someone simply looking for a way to give back, we have a place for you at Brainy Ridge Camp. No prior experience? No problem! All you need is a heart for service, a love for working with children, and the willingness to learn. We offer training and support for all our staff and volunteers. How to Get Involved Join our Staff: Whether you’re a medical professional, counselor, program coordinator, or support staff, we need skilled and passionate individuals to ensure our camp runs smoothly. Your talents and dedication will help create unforgettable experiences for our campers. Volunteer: From tabling at local events to fundraising in your community to lending a hand with camp prep, there are endless ways for you to contribute throughout the year. Your time and energy will directly support these amazing children in having the summer of a lifetime. Reach out to us at admin@brainyridge.com if you want to learn more about our opportunities or are interested in joining us. Summer 2027 staff applications are available now. Register now below! REGISTER NOW

Brainy Ridge's Transitional Youth Camp in Virginia offers a medically supervised overnight experience focused on independence, life skills, and social connection for teens and young adults. Scholarships available. Apply today. TRANSITIONAL YOUTH CAMP July 5 - July 10, 2027 Brainy Ridge's Transitional Youth Camp Ages: 17-27 Cost: $1200 ** Scholarships and Payment Plans available Transitional Youth Camp is a six-day, five-night experience designed for young adults under 26 who are seeking greater independence and self-sufficiency. During the camp, participants will develop essential life skills, enhance their social abilities, and learn effective self-management strategies. Through engaging team-building activities and insightful group discussions, they will gain confidence, explore their strengths, and set meaningful personal goals for the future. For more information, please contact Brainy Ridge Camps at admin@brainyridge.com . REGISTER

Brainy Ridge promotes independence, self-management, and meaningful friendships for children and transitional youth with chronic health conditions — in a safe, supportive community where everyone belongs. ABOUT BRAINY RIDGE MISSION Brainy Ridge Inc. is a non-profit dedicated to empowering children living with various chronic health conditions by fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. We aim to promote independence, self-management, and leadership skills, while cultivating lasting friendships. Our mission is to provide a safe, positive, and cohesive community that instills hope, a sense of belonging, and the tools necessary for these children to thrive. Have Fun. Be Wise. Live Well. "It takes years of committed staff, volunteers, and families to build a strong and cohesive community." - Sandra Cushner Weinstein Our Core Values At Brainy Ridge Inc., we offer a variety of programs and projects designed to enrich the lives of children, teens, and young adults living with chronic health conditions. We believe that by building a sense of community, we can help children and teens develop confidence and resilience. A Supportive Community Community is an important part of what makes Brainy Ridge Inc. special. A network of partnerships with children, families, volunteers, medical staff, board members, community supporters and non-profit healthcare organizations. Medical Support At Brainy Ridge Inc., we understand the unique medical needs of children and teens with chronic health conditions. We work with a variety of medical experts to provide holistic and comprehensive care services. Self-Advocacy When campers and medical staff work together, children learn to be more assertive, become stronger self-advocates and serve as role models for other children and peers. Empowerment Children leave camp ready to face life’s obstacles with new skills, a sense of confidence and a base of emotional support. Safety We offer a 3:1 camper-to-staff ratio as well as a highly qualified, round-the-clock medical team. Education Campers participate in discussions about emotional and physical well-being and medical self-management from therapists, medical experts, mentors and peers.

Support Brainy Ridge Inc. in providing camper scholarships and sustaining day-to-day operations. Your generosity can make a world of difference in empowering children and teens living with a chronic health condition. Join us in creating opportunities for growth, learning, and lasting memories. DONATE Brainy Ridge Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit camp for children and teens living with chronic health conditions. We provide a safe and cohesive community to promote a sense of belonging and leadership. Your donation will go toward helping children and teens living with chronic health conditions attend our camp and become leaders in their communities. See below for ways you can make donations today. EIN: 99-1298587 By Mail Brainy Ridge Inc. PO BOX 34129 Bethesda, MD 20827 Paypal Donate to Brainy Ridge securely online via Paypal. CampMinder Donate to Brainy Ridge securely online via CampMinder. Donate Donate Matching Gift Many workplaces will match employee donations. DAF Give Donor Advised Funds to Brainy Ridge Stock Gift Brainy Ridge accepts stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Learn More Learn More Learn More Maryland Maryland Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Charitable Solicitations Act are available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Maryland Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401, 1.410.974.5534, or within Maryland, 1.800.825.4510. Virginia A copy of the financial statement is available from the State Office of Consumer Affairs, Department of Agricultural and Consumer Services, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218, 1.800.552.9963 or 1.804.786.2042.

Learn about some of the activities offered at Brainy Ridge. ACTIVITIES FOR EVERYONE Brainy Ridge Camp activities are designed to offer campers a diverse and enriching experience, blending fun, adventure, creativity, and learning. At camp, kids have the opportunity to explore new interests, build confidence, and develop skills in a variety of settings. There's something for everyone at Brainy Ridge Camps. The Blue Ridge School has an outdoor athletic complex that includes an artificial turf football field, a six-lane track, 2 soccer fields and a baseball diamond. Indoor activities offer a theater with stadium seating, 3 regulation basketball courts, a weight room, library, and an art room equipped with spinning wheels and kiln. Archery Arts & Crafts Basketball Brainy News Network Dance Canoeing Fishing Flag Football Gaga Hiking Kickball Mountain Biking Lidball Pickleball Rock Climbing Science Soccer Story Crafting Theater Tennis Ultimate Frisbee Volleyball Yoga ...And so much more! **Activity availability may vary due to weather and/or program**

BRAINY RIDGE NEWS Welcome to the Brainy Ridge Camp News page! Here, you'll find the best ways to keep up to date with our summer camp. Stay connected with us throughout the year to see what is new about camp, learn about upcoming events, and hear from our camp community. Washington Parent & Washington Family Magazine Winner In 2025, we won 1st place in several categories in the Washington Parent and Washington Family magazines in which the community voted on the best program in each sector. Lean More Summer 2025 PHOTOS Our photo album is live online! Relive the memories, share the smiles, and show your friends and families all the amazing moments captured at Brainy Ridge Camp. The album is password-protected. If you are or were a participating family or staff member, please contact us to get access to the online photo album. If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share, please send them to admin@brainyridge.com Don't forget to share your favorite shots on social media and tag Brainy Ridge! CHECK OUT CAMP PHOTOS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Stay up-to-date by following us on social media! Our posts on Instagram and Facebook capture the fun and friendship that make camp special. Follow us for highlights, behind-the-scenes looks at life at camp, and camp updates: READ OUR NEWSLETTER Sign up for our camp newsletter to get all the latest news right in your inbox. Every other month, we’ll bring you recaps of camper stories, upcoming events, and special announcements. Subscribe today to stay connected, even after camp ends! SUBSCRIBE

Have questions about Brainy Ridge programs for children with chronic health conditions and transitional youth? Reach out to our team today — we're happy to help! CONTACT US Let's Connect Country This correspondance is about: Choose an option Which camp(s) are you inquiring about? Heart Camp Transitional Youth Camp Epilepsy Camp Neurofibromatosis (NF) Camp Type 1 Diabetes Camp Autism Camp Cerebral Palsy Camp How did you hear about Brainy Ridge? Message/Comments: Send Thanks for submitting an inquiry! A Brainy Ridge team member will get back to you as soon as possible! Business Address Brainy Ridge Inc. PO BOX 34129 Bethesda, MD 20827 Campsite Address Blue Ridge School St. George, VA 22935 Phone (434) 260-3315 Email admin@brainyridge.com Social Media