Programs

Camp Incredible

A Summer Camp for Families Affected by HIV and AIDS

HIV and AIDS have no boundaries and the impact on families is devastating. The daily struggles, feelings of isolation and the need to keep secrets puts a strain on all family members, regardless of who has the virus. Recognizing this, the Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS created Camp Incredible in 2005 to provide respite for all family members. Camp allows parents and kids to be themselves without the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.

Camp Incredible provides a safe, fun and positive environment for families to reconnect and strengthen their family bond by spending time together, participating in activities, relaxing, and having fun. The entire family benefits from the camp experience no matter who in the family unit is living with HIV/AIDS. Camp becomes a home away from home where magic and love abound and where families truly have an "INCREDIBLE" experience.

When & Where

Camp Incredible takes place in early June at the Mingus Mountain Camp facility near Prescott, AZ.

Camp Activities

Arts and Crafts
Hiking
Field Games
Sports
Dance Party
Bonfire
Talent show
And much, much more!

During the Day...

Children participate in a variety of activities in camp counselor-led peer groups. Parents engage in professionally facilitated group exercises and have the opportunity to share their experiences, receive support and learn that they are not alone.

In the Evening...

Family members engage in activities that bring them closer to each other while interacting with other camp families. Everyone learns things about each other that they miss in the hustle and bustle of life at home.

Housing and Meals

Each family has their own private room in a spacious cabin. Cabins include a common area, kitchen, and bathrooms with private showers for both males and females. There is at least one camp counselor volunteer assigned to each cabin to assist campers. Families eat meals together family style.

Medical Facilities

Because of the unique needs of the campers, Camp Incredible has a pediatrician, a family care practitioner, and a nursing staff on site, which is available 24 hours a day.

Transportation

Free transportation is provided to/from the Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS (in Phoenix, AZ) and Mingus Mountain (in Prescott, AZ)

Volunteers

Volunteers are the champions of Camp Incredible. They are the workforce that makes camp possible. Camp needs counselors with a variety of skills and talents so call Barb Brados today and bring laughter and joy to families who live with HIV/AIDS. Volunteers must be at least 21 years of age. Those who are interested in volunteering for Camp Incredible must complete the following:

Pre-interview test
Application
Interview and interview test packet
Fingerprinting and background check
Provide a negative TB test result, dated after June 9, 2006
Attend the Camp Counselor Orientation

For more information, or to volunteer, contact Barb Brados, Camp Director, at (602) 307-5330, ext. 2255 or e-mail bbrados@swhiv.org.