Kamp for Kids Golf FUN-raiser Celebrates 50 Years, Raises $30,000
SPRINGFIELD — Kamp for Kids, a summer day camp for children and young adults with and without disabilities, recently held a successful Golf FUN-raiser event at Max’s Swing Lounge in Springfield, raising $30,000 to support the future of the camp and celebrating 50 years of inclusive camp experiences for children of all abilities.
The April 10 event, which was attended by Kamp for Kids and Behavioral Health Network staff, community partners, supporters, and Kamp families, featured a virtual driving range and mini-golf, food, and raffle prizes. Event sponsors included VAAS Builders, Bacon Wilson, P.C., deRenzy Business Technologies, Greenfield Cooperative Bank, LevinThor LLC, Liberty Tax Greenfield, McCormick-Allum, Patrick and Denise Corrigan Giving Fund at Franklin Templeton, Westfield Gas & Electric, Westfield Kiwanis, and Whalley Computer Associates.
The Golf FUN-raiser event kicked off Kamp’s celebration of 50 years of growth, inclusion, and joy for children and young adults of all abilities. Proceeds from the Golf FUN-raiser directly benefit Kamp for Kids, helping to ensure that the camp continues to thrive for years to come.
“Kamp has always been about creating a place where every child feels like they belong,” said Anne Benoit, program director. “Seeing so many people come together to celebrate 50 years and to support the future of Kamp was truly heartwarming. The impact of this event will be felt by the kids and families we serve for a long time to come.”
Founded in 1975 by Dick and Judy Hoyt, Kamp for Kids was created to offer an inclusive camp experience for their son, Rick, who had cerebral palsy, and his brothers without disabilities. It was the first program in Western Mass. to fully integrate children with and without disabilities into a traditional summer-camp setting. Over the years, the Hoyts have championed disability inclusion, inspiring countless families worldwide. Today, Kamp for Kids continues to honor their legacy, demonstrating that every child, regardless of ability, deserves the chance to participate in meaningful, fun, and educational experiences.