Jasour: News Desk
For those who do not have children – whether young or not so young – with special needs, it’s likely easy to forget just how challenging being such a parent could, at times, be. It’s a vocation, really. It doesn’t ever allow for extended breaks. It is, without question, a 24-hour-a-day, 7-days-a-week, year-round reality. If you’re a parent of a special-needs child, when do you have time for yourself? When do you have a chance to take a break? When does your child get to enjoy life without you there?
Truth is, there is something that has long existed that allows special-needs children and their parents, for at least a week a year, right here in New Jersey, to get that respite. It’s known as the Elks’ Camp Moore in Haskell (in the Ramapo Mountains of New Jersey). A week at Elks’ Camp Moore is a remarkable experience not soon to be forgotten. The primary goal of the camp is to further develop the recreational and social skills of each child. In a relaxed and accepting atmosphere, each camper experiences new adventures, lasting friendships and opportunities that promote independence and greater self-confidence.
“We believe that like all children, children with special needs flourish when provided with new experiences, new friends and activities that will aid them in their general growth. Camp allows these experiences in a new environment. Elks’ Camp Moore’s primary function is to enable children to use and further develop recreational, social and leisure skills through activities presented in a positive, enjoyable and appropriate manner and in a real life situation. At camp each child is challenged to try new things or to improve on what he already knows. We encourage each child to do as much as he can for himself and by himself. The guidance of a friendly and understanding counselor is always near.”
The camp itself, in Passaic County, is made up of 18 fully airconditioned, completely wheelchair-accessible buildings. It began in 1971, and has grown exponentially from its early days. Thousands of Jersey Elks have volunteered to make it a memorable week for the campers — and time for parents to take it easy for a week. Remarkably, campers attend at no cost to families.
Meanwhile, the camp also boasts: “among the buildings stand three modern camper dormitories, a two-story dining hall, kitchen, arts & crafts and games room and also a fully equipped infirmary. The camp also contains a large heated pool that is completely wheelchair accessible. In simpler terms, it has almost anything a camper could need. Now, if you’ve never heard of the camp, we’re going to tell you about it. But it’s best to do so using the experiences of two people who have long loved the camp, what it does and what it means them. The first reflection comes from mom Branda Colon, who has a special-needs daughter, Alyssa.
“For Alyssa, Camp Moore is more than just a place to spend a few summer days — it’s a sanctuary where she thrives,” Branda says. “As a parent, watching her pack her bags with excitement each year is a heartwarming reminder of how much the camp has become part of her life. Camp Moore, designed for children with disabilities, offers Alyssa a sense of freedom and independence that she doesn’t always experience at home. The environment is welcoming, and the staff are well-trained, patient and attentive to every child’s needs. The range of activities —whether it’s swimming, arts and crafts, or nature walks — gives Alyssa the chance to explore her strengths and interests, all while building new friendships.
