The Not Alone Notes team has been busy this summer attending various events including OCD Walks, the annual IOCDF conference, and, new this year, Fearless Family Camp. Fearless Family Camp is a part of the Plant a Camp initiative from the JACK Mental Health Advocacy Foundation, providing funding for camp programs for children with OCD and/or other anxiety disorders.
I (Brie) had the opportunity to volunteer as a coach for Fearless Family Camp, which took place at the Cedar Valley retreat center in West Bend, Wisconsin. This particular camp was unique in that it was held overnight and involved both children and their parent(s). In total, 12 families attended the first ever Fearless Family Camp.
From an outside perspective, it seemed like a typical camp experience with activities such as arts and crafts, outdoor games, movie night, and campfires. However, each day also included an individual therapy session with the camper, their assigned therapist and coach, and often their parent(s), depending on treatment goals. The skills discussed in therapy were applied throughout camp. Campers were challenged with exposures in various settings such as the cafeteria and the art studio and provided with ideas for exposures to work on after camp.
The camp also had the unique aspect of providing specific programming for parents. While campers engaged in games and art therapy, parents attended group sessions where they learned skills to help their kids handle OCD and anxiety. Parents also participated in self-care activities such as group yoga.
The highlight of Fearless Family Camp was definitely the interactive llama farm tour. Campers, parents, and staff visited the llamas that reside on the Cedar Valley property and were also given a tour of a local farm housing more llamas and other animals. This activity allowed campers to challenge themselves by interacting directly with the llamas with many campers giving the llamas snuggles and hugs. Larry the farmer also provided some education on how the farm operates. Fun fact: unlike sheep wool, llama wool has a hollow core, allowing for more warmth when being used to make clothing. We even had the opportunity to see a newborn llama and cheer him on as he practiced standing on his own.
Another camp highlight was the “untalent show”. Everyone was invited to participate without judgment and unlike a talent show, the acts were purposely “bad” to encourage everyone to challenge themselves. There was singing, dancing, bad gymnastics, skits, and a final song and dance number performed by the camp staff. Fearless Family Camp was truly special. Plans are already starting for future camps. Anyone interested in more information can visit https://ocdwisconsin.org/camp/
Brie Godin
Not Alone Notes 