SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KTIV) -
Camp is an opportunity to learn new things and have an adventure in the great outdoors. But if you have a disability, it's rarely an option.
That's not the case anymore. There's a new getaway that gives "high hopes" to all who come there.
For young people like Tiffini Johnson going to camp is exciting.
Tiffini Johnson said, "I just can't wait to start and I'm really happy and I love everybody on the board including my mom."
Thursday's ribbon cutting marks the completion of Phase One of Camp High Hopes, a year-round camp serving both adults and children with disabilities.
Christy Johnson, a board member and parent, "It's something that kids with experience, they deserve to have the same ability that other kids have."
People not only gathered in the 12,000 square foot lodge, they toured the grounds. Complete with a lake, its own beach, an archery range, even an tipi, it's all nestled in the valley off of Correctionville Road.
Gary Turbes, founder of Camp High Hopes said, "Persons with disabilities are sometimes not given the opportunities of others and when they see things like this or do activities like this it puts a smile on their face. It's like Christmas coming to camp."
The camp also provides a sense of relief for parents and caregivers, who are often limited in their options.
Turbes, "It's an opportunity for them to drop them off for a week under professional care and trained staff to care for these folks and then they can leave for a weeks vacation also."
A vacation long overdue for everyone involved. Close to a decade of planning, fundraising and building that's finally paid off.
Ali Langseth, Executive Director of Camp High Hopes said, "Today is just kind of an awe day. It's really been building for a long time. Alot of work has gone into this from a lot of dedicated people. With work comes a lot of reward and today is the reward day where we finally get to say we did it ."
And now let the fun begin. The only other camp like it in the state of Iowa is Camp Courageous in Monticello.
Gary Turbes helped found that camp back it 1972 and it's grown to 6,000 campers a year.
Since Nebraska and South Dakota don't have anything comparable, it's expected to draw campers from the tri-state area.
So far the camp employs eight people with more to be added as it expands. They're also looking for volunteers. If you'd like more information on how to get involved or to sign up your camper click here.
Ribbon cutting at Camp High Hopes in Sioux City.
