We're not your ordinary summer camp...Elks Camp Grassick is a place where summer comes to life for children and adults with physical and intellectual disabilities. Since 1947, the North Dakota Elks have proudly supported Camp Grassick as their major project, creating generations of memories, friendships, and fun. Each summer, nearly 200 campers join us across eight unique camp sessions, filling our days with laughter, adventure, and connection. Along with classic camp favorites like recreation, crafts, and waterfront activities, we also offer supportive services such as reading intervention, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy—all woven naturally into the camp experience. Our goals are simple: to create a truly special summer camp where campers of all abilities feel welcomed, supported, and free to be themselves.
|
|
Our Values |
our philosophy |
|
|
Elks Camp Grassick is not your typical summer camp. So, what does it mean to provide a “very special summer camp experience?”
At Elks Camp Grassick, we provide more than just recreational activities. Campers might attend speech therapy, occupational therapy, and reading intervention. These therapies are provided by licensed teachers and therapists whenever possible, or provided by students who are completing a degree in these fields, under supervision. Using IEPs and information provided by school personnel, Camp Grassick staff works on IEP goals and other areas of need so that children can continue to learn and grow during the summer. Camp Grassick focuses on good manners and social skills. We provide a safe environment to practice problem solving, conflict resolution, and positive peer friendships under the guidance of trained staff who help facilitate. When campers exhibit socially unacceptable behavior, they are gently corrected and guided to more appropriate ways to handle a situation. Every activity at Camp Grassick is an opportunity to practice independence and learn something new. Our recreation classes provide gross motor activities as well as practice in turn taking, good sportsmanship, and rule following. Crafts class works on fine motor skills while promoting creativity. Swimming and waterfront activities stress safety and teach basic swimming and boating skills. Our evening activities range from dances and talent shows to trivia and group games. We focus on encouraging one another, participation, group dynamics, and enjoyment. We value time spent outdoors, unstructured free time, and letting kids enjoy being kids. Campers thrive in the structure of our program because expectations are clear, and rules are enforced fairly and consistently. Our token economy teaches that actions have consequences. Campers are able to earn tokens through positive behavior that they can spend on treats and activities. Our campers and staff are valued as individuals, and accepted for who they are. Elks Camp Grassick is a place where everyone can feel as though they belong. This builds self-confidence and a sense of community. Elks Camp Grassick has been a home away from home for children and adults with disabilities since 1947 and today’s staff prides themselves on continuing our legacy. |