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- Heart Conditions Summer Camp in Virginia | Brainy Ridge
Brainy Ridge's Heart Summer Camp in Virginia offers a medically supervised overnight experience for children and teens with congenital or acquired heart conditions. Scholarships available. Apply today. Heart Camp June 27 - July 3, 2027 Brainy Ridge's Heart Camp Ages: 7-18 Cost: $1300 ** Scholarships and Payment Plans available Brainy Ridge's Heart Camp offers children and teens with heart conditions a seven-day, six-night summer experience filled with fun, education, and social connections in a safe, supervised environment. Expert Medical Support Parents can feel confident knowing that their children are under the care of trained and experienced doctors, nurses, and healthcare providers who specialize in heart conditions. Dr. Valerie Curren, a pediatric cardiologist at Johns Hopkins Hospital, serves as the onsite camp physician. While fun is a major focus, at Heart Camp's goal is also to reduce social isolation, often experienced by those with heart conditions and arrhythmias, and to enhance campers' knowledge and understanding of their health. The camp empowers kids to become better self-advocates and self-managers of their condition, learning from peers and adult volunteers who live successfully with similar conditions. These role models offer hope and inspiration for a healthy future. Engaging Activities & Support Campers participate in a variety of activities, including: Outdoor Adventures: Swimming, team sports, hiking, and more Creative Arts: Arts & crafts, music, and drama Educational & Support Programs: Skill development, group discussions, and condition-specific education By the end of the week, children and teens will leave with a better understanding of their condition, increased self-esteem, and the confidence to manage their health in a positive way. For more information, please contact Brainy Ridge Camps at admin@brainyridge.com . REGISTER
- Diabetes Family | Brainy Ridge Inc
Diabetes Family Camp at Brainy Ridge is a fun, empowering retreat for families of children with Type 1 Diabetes. Type 1 Diabetes Family Camp July 28 - July 30, 2027 Ages: 5–8 Diabetes Family Camp offers young children with type 1 diabetes (ages 5–8) the opportunity to attend a 3-day, 2-night camp with their families. Together, families learn about diabetes while having fun in a supportive, engaging environment. In addition to recreation, the goal of Diabetes Family Camp is to reduce the social isolation often associated with diabetes and to increase knowledge and understanding of the condition. Condition-specific camps have proven to be an effective way for children to learn more about their conditions and to develop adaptive behaviors. Family camps also allow parents to connect with other families experiencing similar challenges and to form support networks that last long after camp ends. Families learn from one another, gain hope for the future, and develop a stronger understanding of both the condition and their own ability to manage what lies ahead. The camp provides opportunities for children and their families to work with professional staff and become more confident advocates and managers of diabetes. Parents can feel confident knowing they are learning from trained and experienced doctors, nurses, diabetes educators, pump specialists, and other healthcare professionals who are experts in the field. Dr. Otilia Neacsu, endocrinologist with Inova Health System, serves as the onsite physician for the family camp. Families stay onsite in shared lodging, with each family assigned their own room or two rooms (depending on family size) and a private bathroom. All families are housed in the same building to foster a close-knit, supportive environment. Rooms include a mix of bunk beds, single beds, and cots. Meals are provided, and siblings are welcome. While the schedule is still being finalized, commonly offered activities include nature walks, arts and crafts, campfires, swimming, fishing, rock wall climbing, canoeing, and breakout sessions for caregivers and children. Programming includes a mix of whole-family activities, age-appropriate child sessions, and dedicated time for parents and caregivers to meet with medical providers for individualized education and support. Summer 2027 tuition is $450 for 1 adult and 1 child. More family members are welcome for an additional fee. Scholarships and payment plans are available upon request. Please contact Brainy Ridge Camps at admin@brainyridge.com for more information. REGISTER
- Conoce a Nuestro Dedicado Personal del Campamento de Verano | Brainy Ridge Inc.
The Brainy Ridge leadership team consists of medical professionals, recreational therapists, special education teachers, dedicated volunteers, and more. The Brainy Ridge Team PEOPLE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE Having dedicated, passionate staff is essential to the success of a summer camp. They are the heart of the program, shaping the overall experience for each camper. Their interactions, leadership, and care bring the camp's mission to life, ensuring every camper leaves with new skills, confidence, and lifelong memories. CAMP COUNSELORS Our counselors are the heart and soul of camp life, serving as mentors, leaders, and role models for campers. They bring enthusiasm, patience, and a deep commitment to creating a fun and safe environment where campers can thrive. All of our staff undergoes training before the summer begins as well as condition-specific education each week prior to camper arrival. Our counselors, with support from our medical staff, are prepared to manage the day-to-day needs of your child while making sure that each camper has the experience of a lifetime! From leading activities and fostering friendships to offering support and guidance, camp counselors are instrumental in helping campers build confidence, try new things, and form lifelong memories. Their passion for working with young people, coupled with their ability to create a sense of belonging, makes them essential to the Brainy Ridge Camp experience. LEADERSHIP TEAM Our leadership team plays a vital role in ensuring the camp's continuous success by managing operations, planning, and preparation beyond the summer months. Their efforts ensure that when summer arrives, the camp is well-prepared to deliver a seamless, enriching experience for campers. MEET THE LEADERSHIP TEAM MEDICAL TEAM Our medical team that come to camp every summer make sure that everyone can stay safe and healthy while enjoying all the fun that Brainy Ridge Camps have to offer. MEET THE MEDICAL TEAM INTERESTED IN JOINING US? VOLUNTEER LEARN MORE
- CAMP SESSIONS | Brainy Ridge Inc
Discover the specialized camp sessions at Brainy Ridge. Each camp session at Brainy Ridge is designed to promote community, resilience, and leadership while providing specialized medical support. From diabetes and cardiology to neurofibromatosis and autism, our programs foster inclusivity, adventure, and lifelong connections for children and families. CAMP SESSIONS Summer 2027 SESSIONS Camp Flyer Neurofibromatosis Camp Ages: 7 - 18 A residential summer camp for children and teens living with Neurofibromatosis Type 1, Type 2 and Schwannomatosis. Learn More Epilepsy Camp Ages: 7 - 18 A residential summer camp for children and teens living with epilepsy. Learn More Cerebral Palsy & Epilepsy Family Camp A 3-day, 2 night camp for young children with cerebral palsy, hemiplegia, or epilepsy and their families. Learn More Heart Camp Ages: 7 - 18 A residential summer camp for children and teens living with heart conditions. Learn More Heart Family Camp Ages: 4 - 8 A 3-day, 2-night camp for young children with a heart condition and their families. Learn More Diabetes Camp Ages: 9 - 18 A residential summer camp for children and teens living with type 1 diabetes. Learn More Diabetes Family Camp Ages: 5 - 8 A 3-day, 2 night camp for young children with diabetes (ages 5-8) and their families. Learn More Autism Spectrum Camp Ages: 9 - 18 A residential summer camp for children and teens living on the autism spectrum (level 1 support). Learn More Transitional Youth Camp Ages: 18 - 26 A residential summer camp for young adults with chronic health conditions transitioning into adulthood. Learn More
- Epilepsy Summer Camp in Virginia | Brainy Ridge
Brainy Ridge's Epilepsy Summer Camp in Virginia offers a medically supervised overnight experience for children and teens with epilepsy. Scholarships available. Apply today. Epilepsy Camp July 18 - July 24, 2027 Brainy Ridge Epilepsy Camp Ages: 7-18 Cost: $1300 ** Scholarships and Payment Plans available Brainy Ridge's Epilepsy Camp is a week-long, overnight camp designed for children and teens with epilepsy, offering a safe, supportive, and fun environment where campers can build confidence, independence, and self-esteem. For 29 years, Brainy Ridge’s staff have fostered a welcoming camp community where children with epilepsy can connect with peers, overcome isolation, and create unforgettable summer memories. More Than Just a Camp Living with epilepsy can be unpredictable, often leading to social stigma and isolation. Brainy Ridge's Epilepsy Camp was created to help combat these challenges, giving children a space to form friendships, gain a deeper understanding of their condition, and embrace their potential—all while enjoying the excitement of an overnight camp. Throughout the camp, every three to four campers are assigned a dedicated staff member, ensuring personalized care and support. Expert Medical Support Our medical team, led by Dr. Clay Hoerig, a pediatric neuro-oncologist, provides 24/7 physician coverage throughout the week. Additional on-site medical staff include: residents, nurses, social workers, physical therapist and psychologists. All counselors receive training in seizure recognition, first aid, CPR, and the unique needs of children with epilepsy. Many of our counselors and volunteers live with epilepsy themselves, providing mentorship and firsthand insight that inspires campers. Engaging Activities & Supportive Community Throughout the week, campers participate in exciting activities that promote teamwork, personal growth, and self-expression. The kids learn team-building skills through activities such as sports, skits, and camp Olympics. Group counseling sessions allow the children to discuss their feelings and learn how others cope with their epilepsy. For one week, campers don’t have to explain their epilepsy to anyone—they simply have fun, form lasting friendships, and embrace who they are. Many of these connections continue long after camp ends, providing a support network for years to come. Please contact Brainy Ridge Camps at admin@brainyridge.com for more information. REGISTER
- SUMMER 2025 | Brainy Ridge Inc
Discover the highlights of summer 2025. Summer 2025 Wrap Up We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all children and families. Our camps are designed to serve a diverse range of children and young adults living with chronic illnesses, ensuring that every camper has the opportunity to experience the joy and adventure of summer camp. We are overjoyed to announce that our inaugural summer was a resounding success! This summer, Brainy Ridge hosted three camps at the Blue Ridge School in St. George, VA. From July 14-20, Teen Leaders and Transitional Youth started off camp with a bang! From leadership and life skills training to team building sessions and support groups, our young adults had a busy week. When they weren’t working with our program leaders, campers had a blast with unique activities and adventures like an overnight campout under the stars, mountain biking, and a trip down to the local ice cream shop! Several teen leaders request to stay for the second week of camp. Not to be outdone, from July 21-27 Camp NF, serving youth and young adults living with Neurofibromatosis and Schwannomatosis hit the ground running. Campers had a great time participating in activities like bowling, rock climbing, pottery, archery, and lidball. We even had our first Brainy Ridge Resort night! A fantastic week ended with the closing of our Mario Kart themed-Olympics with a kart race around the lawn and the presentation of team flags and songs for our judges. This summer was filled with unforgettable moments from exciting activities to creating new friendships. Thank you to all the campers, parents, staff, and volunteers who made this possible.
- Autism Level 1 Summer Camp in Virginia | Brainy Ridge
Brainy Ridge's Autism Level 1 (High-Functioning Autism) Summer Camp in Virginia offers a medically supervised overnight experience for children and teens. Scholarships available. Apply today. Autism Camp July 5 - July 10, 2027 Brainy Ridge's Autism Camp Ages: 10-18 Cost: $1300 ** Scholarships and Payment Plans available Brainy Ridge's Autism Spectrum Camp offers children and teens living on the autism spectrum (level 1 support) six days and five nights of summer fun and social connections. Children experience all the excitement and adventure of a sleep-away camp, with medical staff available for support throughout the week. For six days, campers don’t have to worry about how they are seen or what others think—they simply have fun. They participate in a variety of activities, learning team-building skills through sports, skits, and Camp Olympics. Both formal and informal support groups allow campers to practice social and communication skills, while also encouraging discussions of meaningful and relevant topics. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Alyssa Weinstein is joined by a dedicated team of nurses, social workers, physical therapists, and psychologists to provide medical coverage throughout the week. Experienced special education teachers and recreation therapists use their expertise to work with the campers and assist in training counselors to address the specific issues associated with autism spectrum. Several counselors and volunteers who live with the condition share their experiences and wisdom with the campers each summer. Please contact Brainy Ridge Camps at admin@brainyridge.com for more information. REGISTER
- CP & Epilepsy Family Camp | Brainy Ridge Inc
Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy Family Camp at Brainy Ridge is a joyful, supportive getaway for families of children with CP, hemiplegia, or epilepsy. Cerebral Palsy & Epilepsy Family Camp July 15 - July 17, 2027 Cerebral Palsy & Epilepsy Family Camp offers young children with CP, hemiplegia, and/or epilepsy conditions the opportunity to attend a 3-day, 2-night camp with their families so together they can learn about the condition and have fun during the process. In addition to fun, the goal of Family Camp is to reduce the social isolation that is often associated with childhood chronic helath conditions and help connect families with others who understand the journey. The camp provides opportunities for children and their families to work with professional staff and become more confident advocates and managers of their condition. Parents can feel comfortable that they are learning from trained and experienced doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals who are experts in the field. Dr. Clay Hoerig, pediatric neuro-oncologist with University of Minnesota and MHealth, is the onsite physician for the family camp. Condition specific camps have proven to be an effective way for children to learn more about their conditions and to develop adaptive behaviors. Family camps allow parents to connect with other families who are experiencing similar issues and form support networks that survive long after the end of camp. Families learn from each other and are offered hope for the future. They gain a better understanding of the condition, their strengths and their ability to handle what lies ahead. Summer 2027 tuition is $450 for 1 adult and 1 child. More family members are welcome for an additional fee. Scholarships and payment plans are available upon request. Please contact Brainy Ridge Camps at admin@brainyridge.com for more information. REGISTER
- STAFF & VOLUNTEERS | Brainy Ridge Inc
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
- MEDICAL TEAM | Brainy Ridge Inc
With a team made up of medical specialists, social workers, psychologists, and nurses, our Brainy Ridge medical team is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers. THE BRAINY MEDICAL TEAM Alyssa Weinstein, MSN, RN, CPNP Camp Director, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Valerie Curren, MD Pediatric Cardiologist Clay Hoerig, DO Pediatric Neuro-Oncologist Amy Kim, MSN, APRN, CPNP-PC Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Otilia Neacsu, MD Pediatric Endocrinologist Archana Pasupuleti, MD, MBA Pediatric Neurologist Sandra Cushner Weinstein, PT, LSCW-C Social Worker, Physical Therapist
