CHT is a year-round camp for children with medical needs and their siblings. With 24/7 on-site medical care, CHT ensures each camper’s individual needs are met. Camp Youngblood is a week-long overnight summer camp, funded by the Virginia Bleeding Disorders Foundation (VABDF) formerly the Virginia Hemophilia Foundation (VHF) and the Hemophilia Association of the Capital Area (HACA), that provides children and teens from the inherited bleeding disorders community with a traditional camp experience in a safe, supportive environment. Campers enjoy a variety of activities while forming lasting friendships with peers who share similar lived experiences.
Camp Youngblood has become a beloved tradition for families both new and old in the community. The camp experience has long been a cherished opportunity for young people connected to bleeding disorders to gather, share, grow, and learn.
Caitlin Carroll, Director of Programs at CHT, reflected on camp’s history and mission, sharing, “Camp Holiday Trails (CHT) is grateful for the continued opportunity to partner with VABDF and HACA to host Camp Youngblood since 2007. During our week together at Camp, we created an environment where campers build meaningful connections, deepen their understanding of their diagnosis, participate in safe and adaptive activities, and experience the joy of belonging within a welcoming community. Throughout the week, campers, staff, and volunteers came together in a spirit of collaboration, inclusion, and fun, creating lasting memories and friendships that will extend far beyond the gates of Camp.”
Carroll also said, “One of my biggest highlights for me is from our Family Breakfast on the last morning of Camp when parents/caregivers and young siblings joined in on the fun- moments like these showcase the impact of the work we all get to do through this partnership.”
If you are interested in Camp Youngblood and Camp Holiday Trails (https://campholidaytrails.org/), please reach out with any questions and stay tuned for information regarding next year’s event.
