25 Years of Learning and Laughter at Heather’s Camp

For 25 summers, Heather’s Camp has welcomed youth ages 7–18 who are blind or visually impaired into a world of laughter, learning and limitless possibility. 

More than a summer tradition, Heather’s Camp is a transformative experience. It combines fun, community and hands-on skill building to help campers grow in confidence and independence. 

Heather’s Camp brings together campers from across the country for a weeklong, overnight adventure. Students engage in activities tailored to support the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC), a set of essential life and learning skills for students who are blind or visually impaired. From mobility and communication to sensory awareness and teamwork, the camp is designed to help young people thrive. 

The schedule blends adaptive recreation with real-world learning. Campers navigate hiking trails, climb rock walls, swim, canoe and practice beep archery, all supported by trained staff and dedicated volunteers. These experiences aren’t just memorable—they are educational. Each one reinforces the skills students need to be independent, confident and community-minded. 

"At Heather’s Camp, we believe that every moment is an opportunity for growth,” said Courtney Wages, Community Outreach Manager. “Our campers embark on a journey of self-discovery, where each challenge they face — whether it’s climbing a rock wall or navigating a hiking trail — becomes a stepping stone toward greater independence. 

“Here, they learn that their abilities far outweigh their limitations, and they forge connections that last a lifetime. The laughter and friendships they build, combined with the invaluable skills they acquire, empower them to leave camp not just as participants, but as confident, resilient leaders ready to take on the world.” 

This year’s camp welcomed 39 blind or visually impaired campers, along with seven BVI counselors-in-training (CITs) and 12 BVI counselors. Many of those counselors were once campers themselves. That cycle of growth is intentional. Heather’s Camp helps students build leadership skills, connect with role models, and return as mentors to others. 

Founded in memory of Heather Muller, a Delta Gamma member who dedicated her life to helping children with disabilities, the camp began as a day program and later expanded to overnight stays. Its evolution reflects a commitment to growing alongside the needs of the students it serves. In 2019, Envision formally adopted the camp in partnership with the original board. That group continues to help operate the camp as an active advisory board. 

Today, Heather’s Camp operates at Camp Wood YMCA, a site made more accessible through the collaboration and shared mission of both organizations. Facility improvements and year-over-year growth speak to the strength of these partnerships, including Delta Gamma’s Service for Sight initiative and continued donor support. 

As Heather’s Camp celebrates 25 years of camp, its legacy lives on in the students who return each summer, the volunteers who give their time and energy and the families who recognize how rare and powerful this kind of experience can be. 

Heather’s Camp proves that when education is accessible and joyful, it creates a lasting impact. As we celebrate 25 years of confidence-building adventures, Envision remains committed to ensuring that every child has the chance to grow, explore and believe in what’s possible.