FREDDY’S FRIENDS
Mentally challenged youth & adults
Session 1 (June 12-15)
Session 4 (July 2-5)
$270

This is one of the few Christian camping programs in Michigan that ministers specifically to the mentally challenged.  Campers attending Freddy's Friends at Pine Ridge may be challenged with cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism, and other medical diagnoses. Physical ages run from youth on up through adults.  The campers will participate in fun activities that are geared for their abilities, making it possible for everyone to be encouraged as they get in on the action. 

Where does the name from this camp come from?  We're glad you asked!  Freddy is a loved puppet here at Pine Ridge and over the years, Freddy has always struggled with memorizing the Bible verse of the week.  Our challenged campers have found it enjoyable to interact with Freddy and encourage him often to say his verse.  Freddy is also mischievous and fun, and his antics keep the campers in stiches of laughter.

This camp is in high demand, so register early!  Also, please note that all new campers must be interviewed for acceptance into the program.  Please contact Steve Hulet, Camp Program Director, for setting up an interview time at Pine Ridge.

Physically challenged campers are "mainstreamed" into other camp sessions according to their age. Please call the camp to make the appropriate arrangements.

Parents can check in campers on the first day of camp between 9:00 am and 10:30 am. 

Camper check out schedule and requirements:

• There is an optional parents meeting at 9:45 am in front of the dining hall.  Coffee and sweet rolls will be provided at the meeting.
• Closing ceremonies for the camp programs begin at 10:00 am. 
• Camper pick up on the final day of camp is at 10:30 am.
• Pine Ridge also confirms check out to the appropriate adults by requiring identification of anyone picking up a camper.  Please bring I.D. with you on check out day.

What We Recommend

Packing List

• Clothes for all types of weather (shorts, t-shirts, sweat shirt, jeans, light jacket, rain gear).  Modest clothing for females including no short shorts or bare midriffs.
• One set of dress clothes for talent/banquet night
• Warm pajamas
• One modest swimsuit (one-piece or tankini for the girls)
• Toiletries including tooth brush, tooth paste, shampoo, and bar soap
• Two beach towels
• Wash cloth
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Flash light
• Athletic shoes and a second option if possible (sandals, flip flops, etc.)
• Bible
• Pen or Pencil
• Swim goggles or ear plugs if needed
• Theme night items (these will be indicated in your confirmation letter)
• Sleeping bag or sheets & blankets
• Pillow
• Dirty clothes bag (large plastic bag can work fine)
• Snack shop, offering, & crafts spending money (deposited at check-in to a card system with remaining funds returned at check-out)

LABEL...LABEL...LABEL...EVERYTHING!

Things have a tendency to get left at the lake or in the bathrooms during changing time.  It is much easier to locate the owner with everything either labeled or tagged with your camper's name.  Any clothes left at Camp and unclaimed by September will be given to a worthy charity. Pine Ridge is not responsible for lost or stolen articles.

THINGS TO LEAVE AT HOME

Gameboys, i-pods, cell phones, mp3 players, radios, and gum. 

Freddy's Friends campers enjoy a schedule that is paced according to their needs and abilities. The following schedule represents a typical day of activity for this program.  The schedule varies from day to day, allowing for special events like get-to-know-you mixers on registration day and the carnival on the final night.