Camp High Hopes Awarded $300,000 Grant

Camp High Hopes was recently awarded a $300,000 earmarked federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education to supply the furnishings and technology equipment needed to support Phase 1 of the planned year-round recreational facility for people with special needs.   The grant that was initiated through Senator Harkin’s office represents 4% of the total costs associated with Phase 1. 

Senator Harkin said, “The mission of Camp High Hopes reminds me of Dr. Martin Luther King’s remark that ‘Life’s most urgent and persistent question is: What are you doing for others?’  Camp High Hopes will answer that question in very powerful ways: by giving young people with disabilities opportunities to expand their horizons, while providing respite breaks for families caring for loved ones with disabilities. This funding will help further that goal.”

 “Funding from this grant will help Camp High Hopes make a difference in the lives of children and adults in the tri-state area living with special needs,” said Camp High Hopes Executive Director Ali Langseth. “We are so thankful to Senator Harkin’s office for helping to facilitate this grant that will ultimately supply the furnishings and equipment needed to support Phase 1 of the camp.  Items like dining room tables and chairs, hospital-style beds, and computers will be purchased with these funds.  We will have the furnishings needed in order to accommodate up to 80 campers each week of the year.”

Construction of Phase 1 will begin once fundraising goals are met, which includes development of the 90 acres just off Correctionville Road in Sioux City, a lodge, two cabins, and a medical center/office.  Camp sessions are scheduled to start shortly after the construction of Phase 1 is complete and will include week-long, weekend, and day camping programs for children and adults with special needs.