Inclusion at YMCA of the Pines

“Connection to nature is critical for urban kids. Love the lack of electricity. All good.”

- Specialty camper

At YMCA of the Pines we have a culture of caring, based on empathy, respect and empowerment. We welcome everyone, including campers with intellectual and developmental disabilities, visual impairments, trying personal circumstances, including children infected or affected by HIV/AIDS as well as those impacted by public health concerns and/or violence. Our Specialty Camp programs foster development, independence and joy in all of the children who attend. Children learn about, and come to appreciate, the similarities and differences in one another – and friendships flourish. Both our counselors and volunteers are well-trained and have vast experience working with children of differing abilities, ensuring that all are safe and secure while they experience the thrills of camp. If you are seeking a place for a specialty camp, please contact YMCA of the Pines Chief Operating Officer, Greg Keresztury, at 609-654-8225 or at gregk@ycamp.org.

We're proud of our Specialty Camps!

In partnership with various agencies, YMCA of the Pines operates the following Specialty Camps:

Camp Bright Feathers

For children infected or affected by HIV/AIDS as well as those impacted by public health concerns and/or violence. This camp has been in operation for 25+ years.

Learn more >

Camp Firefly

A bereavement camp for children who have lost a loved one. This camp is operated in conjunction with the amazing people at the Moorestown Visiting Nurse Association.

Learn more >

“Camp challenged me a lot and I honored that because I did things in camp that I would never thought of doing in my normal life, for example, zip lining. Even though I am scared of heights, with all the support of the counselors and my friends, I challenged myself and conquered that fear.”

- Specialty camp participant