21 United of Mississippi Hosts 4th Annual Down Syndrome Summer Family Camp

This year 21 United of Mississippi will host its fourth annual summer family camp July 5-6 at Camp Hopewell in Oxford. This camp is for individuals with Down Syndrome and their immediate family members.

Arts and crafts fun at the 2018 21 United Down syndrome camp. Photo provided.

Created by three Oxford families, 21 United of Mississippi is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the inclusion, value and acceptance of individuals with Down Syndrome.

A unique aspect of the camp is it is completely free for individuals with Down Syndrome to attend. Funds raised at the organization’s annual Buddy Walk in October cover the cost for families to participate.

Campers enjoy typical camp activities such as swimming, arts and crafts, canoeing, and archery, among other camp activities. Meanwhile, parents get together to learn from special guests and from each other, forming bonds that last well after camp.

Scott Thompson, president of 21 United said he is excited to kick off the fourth annual summer camp.

“Our camp has grown into much more fun than anyone on our board ever imagined. The wonderful counselors give our children an unforgettable experience, and the parents have time to learn from each other and special guests,” he said.

Thompson and the rest of the 21 United organization look at this camp as a learning and growing experience, he said.

“We have speakers with a great wealth of knowledge joining us this year. We are constantly learning from experienced professionals and from each other. This camp gives us those opportunities while our children stay busy with typical camp activities,” he said.

This year’s summer camp has spots remaining for just a few more families. For more information on camp registration, contact Scott Thompson at thompson@olemiss.edu.

Hottytoddy.com intern Jackson Solari contributed to this report. Press release courtesy of Scott Thompson.