OUR CAMP
In the 1940’s there were little or no services available for people with disabilities. Seeing this, a group of dedicated parents of children with Cerebral Palsy came together to form The Parents Association for Cerebral Palsy Children Inc – Now Shady Oaks Camp for People with Disabilities. The Association purchased 30+ acres of land in Homer Township, Illinois in the hopes of building a place in which their children could enjoy the fun of summer camp! In 1947, camp was opened and since then, the dream has continued. The camp welcomes campers ages 5 and up of all disabilities!
From its beginnings in 1947, SOC has grown from its three original buildings to six dorms, two staff houses, a large dining hall, director’s quarters, a heated in ground pool, sensory building and a rec center. The recreation building, Ford Hall, is the center of many activities.
A favorite activity at Shady Oaks is swimming! We have a heated, therapeutic swimming pool that is definitely a fun spot!
Shady Oaks is operated by a large and capable staff. The Executive Director, Camp Director, counselors and support staff are responsible for the overall daily operation. The staff consists of American college students as well as people from a variety of countries around the world. Counselors are directly responsible for the well-being of the campers on a one-to-one basis.
