Aspen Camp of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Aspen Camp Needs Help Replacing Ropes Challenge Course

Aspen Camp — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 18:43:04 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Lesa Thomas, Executive Director
lesa@aspencamp.org
970-923-2511

ASPEN CAMP NEEDS HELP REPLACING ROPES CHALLENGE COURSE

April 16, 2012 (Snowmass, Colo.) – Enriching experiential education and recreational experiences for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, the Aspen Camp of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (Aspen Camp) is sad to report that the high winds on April 6^th felled two large trees effectively eliminating the use of the high ropes challenge course and zip line, two important elements in the success of its summer camp season starting June 24^th.

In addition, all the equipment used for the ropes course (ropes, harnesses, helmets, carabiners, etc.) has been lost to mold and rust caused by a water leak in their storage shed. That building is also a complete loss. It is estimated the cost to replace the course and equipment is $80,000, which the Aspen Camp is reaching out to the community to raise. To make a donation, visit: www.aspencamp.org.

“In a matter of minutes, years of services ended. Fortunately, no one was hurt when the trees fell and other camp buildings were spared, some by mere inches. We are quickly developing a plan to install low ropes elements, but that experience will not equal the one offered by the high ropes and 230 foot zip line,” said Lesa Thomas, executive director of the Aspen Camp.

The high ropes challenge course and zip line are used throughout the summer at the Aspen Camp youth, adult, and community family camps and team-building retreats. The high ropes course and zip line use the same anchors. The entire high ropes course has to be replaced.

“The zip line is an adrenaline rush of fun that campers of all ages and abilities muster the courage to take on. The high rope challenge course helps build self-esteem, promotes teamwork skills and creates trust, compassion and respect for others and their differences. Both are important elements in our overall camp experience,” said Thomas.

The mission of the Aspen Camp is to provide enriching experiential educational and recreational experiences for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. It’s your adventure! For more information about the Aspen Camp or to make a donation to restore the high ropes course and equipment, visit: www.aspencamp.org, email: info@aspencamp.org, call voice phone: 970-923-2511 or call video phone: 970-315-0513. End.

View pictures at https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150799901954252.468696.191519434251&type=1.

WSE 2012 Prezine

Aspen Camp — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 07:18:51 +0000

Thank you for choosing Aspen Camp as your winter camp of choice. We know you’ll enjoy yourself while enjoying winter sports, joking with new friends, and breathing in the fresh air at Aspen.

This pre-zine is designed to give you all the information you need to prepare yourself for the upcoming program. We want to make sure you have all the things you need and are prepared for a great time. It wouldn’t be fun if you freeze yourself when at the top of the mountain, right? If you do forget something, don’t worry. We will take care of you.

If this is your first time skiing or snowboarding, congrats! We have trained staff members ready to help you learn the basic moves, the proper set up, how to fall safely, and best of all, how to enjoy shredding the slopes. If you’re already experienced enough to complete with Shaun White, you’ll enjoy the one of the best freestyle and terrain parks in the nation.

We are excited about your arrival. See you soon!

Aspen Camp

Aspen Camp & Snowmass Mountain

You’ll be staying at the cozy 17+ acres of Aspen Camp of the Deaf & Hard of Hearing in Old Snowmass, Colorado. Don’t worry, you’ll be sleeping in warm log cabins snuggled between piles of snow. If you want the experience of sleeping in a tent and teepee, you should check out our summer camp and backpacking week!

Snowmass Mountain is where we’ll play during your stay. The mountain is about 15 minutes from Aspen Camp and has 4,406 feet of slopes from top to bottom (the most in the U.S.). A total of 91 trails taking you through 3,132 acres of beautiful powder, 21 lifts to get you where you want and 9 on-mountain restaurants to satisfy your appetite. Snowmass Mountain continues to be the number one choice for Aspen Camp’s winter programming.

A Fun Packed Schedule

Thu, Feb 16

All Day: Pick-ups at Aspen Airport

11a-2p: Pick-Ups at Denver Airport

5p: Registration and pre-evaluation

6p: Dinner

7p: Icebreaker activities

9p: Camp & Wilderness Safety Presentation

10p: Bedtime

Fri, Feb 17

8a: Breakfast

9a: Pick up ski/snowboard rentals, skill evaluation and categorization

11a: Skiing/Snowboarding at Snowmass Mountain

12p: Lunch

4p: Head back to Aspen Camp

5p: Shower & Social

6p: Dinner

7p: Arts & Crafts

8p: Bonfire

10p: Bedtime

Sat, Feb 18

8a: Breakfast

9a: Pick up ski/snowboard rentals, skill evaluation and categorization

11a: Skiing/Snowboarding at Snowmass Mountain

12p: Lunch

4p: Head back to Aspen Camp

5p: Shower & Social

6p: Dinner

7p: Drama

8p: Movie Night

10p: Bedtime

Sun, Feb 19

8a: Breakfast

9a: Skiing/Snowboarding at Snowmass Mountain

12p: Lunch

1p: Krazy Kostumes

4p: Head back to Aspen Camp

5p: Shower & Social

6p: Dinner

7p: Hot Springs

10p: Bedtime

Mon, Feb 20

6a: Van leaves for Denver Airport

8a: Breakfast

9a: Post-Evaluation (in Van & Group)

11a-2p: Drop Offs at Denver Airport

All Day: Drop Off at Aspen Airport

What To Bring

Now it wouldn’t be fun if you forgot your underwear, would it? Here’s a helpful list of what you should bring. On the right are recommended goods you may enjoy having with you.

To keep warm, think layers and not heavy clothes that will suffocate you. You don’t have to have the optional items but they help!

Please permantely label all items with the campers’ first and last name. Also please remember that Aspen Camp is not responsible for any lost, damaged, or forgotten items. Personal belongings are the responsibility of the campers. We’ll be happy to mail back left behind items when postage is paid by the camper.

Daily Gear

T-Shirts
Sweaters/Sweatshirt
Pants
Underwear
Longjohns
Socks for walking
Warm pajamas
Gloves/Mittens
Awesome attitude

Personal Care

Shampoo/Conditioner
Soap
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Sunblock/Sunscreen
Personal medication in original container (we will keep this in the infirmary)
Other personal items you may need

Winter Sports Gear

Snow jacket
Snow pants (not jeans/cotton)
Socks (dries fast and stays warm, cushioned especially if skiing)
Glove (waterproof and insulated)
Winter sports Goggles
Neck warmer (ie: Neck Gator)

Other

Poncho
Swimsuit (yes, we’ll be visiting the hot springs!)
Flashlight

If You Did Not Choose Rental

Ski with poles/snowboard
Ski/snowboard boots
Helmets

Optional

Waterproof Camera & batteries
Glove liner
Towels
Sleeping Bag
Twin Sheets
Pillow(s)
Snacks (labeled in a bag where we can keep it in the kitchen)
$40 or more in cash

Do Not Bring

Expensive jewerly
Computer
Music players
Video games
Bad attitude

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where will we sleep?

Particpants have their own bunk bed in log cabins. The cabins have electricity with outlets, lights and smoke detectors. The cabins uses a fireplace (manned by a team member) to keep the place warm and toasty. Of course girls and boys sleep in separate cabins and at least two screened team members are always in the cabin when particpants are there.

We have pillows, sheets, sleeping bags, and towels ready for those who didn’t bring their personal ones from home.

What will we eat?

We have a delicious menu to provide you with the carbs needed to sustain a long day out on the mountain. Breakfast will consist of french toast, scrambled eggs, sausages, friattas, cereal, and more. Lunch and dinner will consist of pizza, sandwiches, chicken, spaghetti, chili, and vegetables. Water and snacks like energy bars and fruit are always available at camp and out on the mountain.

If you have dietary limitations not marked on the application form, please let us know now at info@aspencamp.org.

Do I get to skip homework all weekend?

Aspen Camp cares about the education of our future Shaun Whites. We will have a help session every evening for those who has some homework. Our staff members will be ready to make homework fun and easily accesible in the campers’ preferred language of choice.

Now don’t try to “forget” your homework materials…

Will someone help me ski or snowboard?

On the first day, we will have a skills evaluation that will help us put you in the appropirate group. Each group has a specific skill level and a matching team member or volunteer. We’ll be with you all the way if you’re learning the basics, improving your tricks, or zooming down the mountain.

Campers are not allowed to go out without supervision. Don’t worry, our team members are cool and you’ll have a blast!

We are super excited about having you join us this year! If you have any questions or concerns, please e-mail us at info@aspencamp.org or drop us a video message at www.aspencamp.org/contact.

Letter From The Director – Jan 2012

Aspen Camp — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 20:55:51 +0000

During the New Year, we celebrate with reflections of what was and what wonderful things will come. We invite you to take a moment to reflect on the inspiration Aspen Camp has provided over the past 45 years, and your role in our glorious and meaningful history. This past year the Camp overcame numerous challenges and landed on its feet ready to move forward in big ways with inspiring new programs, restored grounds and facilities while creating something special just for you.

Recently, new and current board members met with staff to create a renewed Camp vision and exciting programs to ensure your experiences are educational and treated with compassion, helping develop your unique identity. We want to share this momentum with you. We are asking you to do something that has a direct and positive impact on our efforts. We are asking you to join Aspen Camp.

We’re not your ordinary charitable organization. Through our people, the way we work together, and the participants in our programs and their families, we believe it’s as basic as helping people discover themselves. For almost half a century, ACD has been a pioneer in creating lasting change for issues of the deaf and hard of hearing that some would have said were insurmountable. Our approach has proven effective for thousands of people from across Colorado, the nation, and the globe.

With winter and summer outdoor adventures, signing and parenting classes, events building fellowship for deaf and hard of hearing children, adults, and their families, our work reaches far beyond simple recreation. This is well-planned practical guidance through experiential learning, providing self-sufficiency and independence within a nurturing community.

To envision progress in challenging circumstances takes imagination from people like you. It takes imagination to work for a world where strong families, literacy, confidence, and talents are cultivated.

You’d be surprised how far even your smallest contribution goes:

Volunteer work weekends help maintain the beauty of our surroundings and facilities,
Volunteering for our programs helps our staff deliver quality guidance and supervision,
Donations of books, toys, medical supplies, and classroom materials support our funding and teaching,
Financial donations maintain and expand outdoor and indoor programming, events, scholarships, vehicles, facilities, and other daily operating demands, and
Contributions to our capital campaign help revitalize our aging campus bringing us into a new age while keeping the best of our past.

From attending a program, telling others about our services, serving on a committee, volunteering, or continuing to support financially–the possibilities are endless. So, please join us today. You’ll be taking a stand to ensure the longevity of the camp in the inspiring surroundings of the Roaring Fork Valley of the Rocky Mountains, alongside some of the most determined and caring people you’ll ever encounter. We need you here.

Sincerely,
Lesa Thomas
Executive Director

Inspiring Weekend

Aspen Camp — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:25:07 +0000

Sometimes when people come together something magical happens. This past weekend, our new board, our team and several community members came together through a positive process and created an inspired vision for Aspen Camp. We bonded around the campfire and feisty discussions of what is the best of Aspen Camp and what will be. Creativity flowed through both deaf and hearing participants’ hands—all centered on a passion for children. The camp has taken a breath—a new breath of life. I ended the weekend with humbled feelings of gratitude and a renewed sense of energy and focus. Go TEAM!

- Lesa Thomas

New Website For Us!

Aspen Camp — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 05:31:34 +0000

We’re in the process of updating our website to a more user-interactive format. Please share with us what you like, don’t like, and your ideas. Happy holidays!

Testing 1

Aspen Camp — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 05:30:45 +0000

Testing article/news posts. Please disregard.