In just four short weeks, Camp Rainbow will celebrate the opening of its 47th camp. With its beginning in 1961 by a group of local parents as a day camp activity for individuals with a disability, it has grown to its present format.
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After a short stay at Simpson Park and then Grand Oaks Assembly Grounds in Chillicothe, the camp moved to the Crowder State Park as a weekly activity.
Except for one year, when the state park was being renovated, the camp has been a fixture for at least a short time each summer.
This year’s camp will be held June 17 to the morning of June 23. It will operate in the same manner as in past years with the first group of campers arriving on Monday, June 18, in the morning and staying until Wednesday, June 20. The second group will arrive on the afternoon of June 20 and stay until Saturday, June 23.
Located just three miles west of Trenton, Crowder provides a great setting for the camp, officials report. With six large cabins for sleeping needs, a separate cabin for some staff members, a kitchen and dining hall, a cabin for arts and crafts and adequate recreational facilities, Rainbow campers enjoy a variety of activities, fellowship and entertainment that differs from their normal life. On a normal year, Camp Rainbow will have between 85 to 95 campers. Last year’s camp had 99 campers who took part in the activities.
Crafts, recreational games, water activities and swimming fill the daytime schedule of the campers, while evening activities and entertainment might include singing groups, Indian dancers, gymnastics or dances for the campers. The last activity before each evening ends in a short “Vesper Service.”
The camp is financed through the contributions of individuals, foundations and service clubs throughout North Missouri, as well as a small $15 fee charged each camper. (Campers are not turned away even if they are unable to pay the fee.) The total cost of the camp has increased in the past few years. It became necessary for the camp to pay for two positions, a nurse and a night watchman. These positions and increased food costs and fees have caused the cost of the camp to be more expensive.
“Many caring organizations and individuals have continued to help make the camp possible over the past 46 years,” said Ron O’Dell, camp committee chairman.
However, the success of Camp Rainbow has always depended upon the coordination of all of the staff helpers.
“Without the assistance of the 30 to 50 helpers that we have volunteer each year, the camp would not be able to operate,” O’Dell said. “We are always looking for a few more good helpers to make our staff even better.”
He added that this year is no exception and camp officials are still seeking volunteers. For more information about Camp Rainbow or for those 14 years or older who would like to volunteer, contact Ron O’Dell, Camp Rainbow committee chairman, at 660-646-3205; or Beth Milanovich, Camp Rainbow committee secretary, at 660-646-5021.