Camp Encourage

06/19/2026

In honor of Juneteenth, we enjoyed products from local Black-owned businesses like Ruby Jean's Juicery . ♥️🖤💚💛

Today is both a celebration of freedom and an opportunity to reflect on our nation's history and the work that remains in creating communities where everyone is valued and included.

At Camp Encourage, we talk a lot about belonging. We strive to create spaces where young people feel accepted, supported, and empowered to be themselves. While Juneteenth commemorates a specific moment in history, it also reminds us of the importance of dignity, respect, and opportunity for all people.

If you're able, we encourage you to spend a little time learning more about Juneteenth, attending a community event, supporting a local Black-owned business, or simply reflecting on what freedom, inclusion, and belonging mean in our lives and communities.

For a list of great local options, check out KC Black Owned at https://www.facebook.com/share/1RVAMYEi41/?mibextid=wwXIfr ♥️🖤💚💛

06/18/2026

The next Summer Camp Session is fast approaching and our campers (desperately!) need a wee bit more volunteer support!

💛 June 29 to July 2: To allow us to release campers on the waiting list, we need just a few more camp counselors. To apply, visit https://campencourage.campbrainstaff.com/.

💚 Monday, June 29 from 11:20am-1:30pm: Bring your group of 8-10 volunteers to hold encouraging signs and wave at / welcome our campers as they arrive on the campgrounds: https://volunteersignup.org/PR99H/9072230

06/17/2026

Meet Owen, our 2026 Camper Co-Chair! 🌟

Owen has been attending Camp Encourage for 11 years, and it has been incredible to watch his confidence and independence grow along the way.

From discovering a love for karaoke and archery to building meaningful friendships with fellow campers and staff, camp has become one of Owen’s favorite places. The impact has been so meaningful that he hopes to one day return as a volunteer and give other campers the same kindness and understanding that helped him thrive.

You can help create more life-changing camp experiences for campers like Owen. Learn more at smoresandpours.com. ❤️🏕️

06/16/2026

OUR MATCHING CAMPAIGN CONTINUES. Join our community in raising $22,000 that will then be matched. 💚💚 Support our campers' growing scholarship needs today!

🔥 FUEL THE FIRE. DOUBLE THE BELONGING at https://campencourage.org/match

Camps For Kids matching campaign will DOUBLE all donations April 1st to July 31st to fund scholarships for campers, programs, volunteers.

06/15/2026

*NEW AND ONLY AVAILABLE FOR A SHORT TIME*

Let there be MERCH!
At Camp Encourage, every camper deserves a place where they are welcomed, valued, and celebrated for exactly who they are. When you purchase "You Belong Here" Camp Encourage merch, you're doing more than adding a meaningful shirt, sweatshirt, or hat to your wardrobe. You're helping create life-changing camp experiences for youth on the autism spectrum.

Even better, proceeds from every purchase will be matched through the Camps For Kids campaign, doubling your impact and helping provide scholarships for campers who otherwise may not be able to attend.

For further details and to secure your merch today, visit: https://cs-youbelonghere.itemorder.com/

06/15/2026

Our very own Kristi Loftus will be presenting at the Real Voices - Real Choices Conference, which aims to inform, educate, and empower individuals and families affected by developmental disabilities, mental illness, and substance use disorder. Her presentation will delve into various aspects of autism, including neurodiversity, mental health, identity, behavior, support systems, and lived experiences within autistic communities.

Kudos to the Missouri Mental Health Foundation and the Missouri Department of Mental Health for presenting this meaningful conference!

06/14/2026

Until we meet again, may the magic of camp continue to inspire and uplift us all✨

06/14/2026

Lots of LOVE and THANKS to our amazing medical team who cared for our campers and staff all week with compassion, calm and kindness. 💕We appreciate you!!

06/14/2026

With so many fantastic activities at Camp Encourage, it's hard to pick a favorite but a few campers shared theirs with us.

06/14/2026

Our campers have settled in safe and sound for the night after a long, exciting day.