Summer will be here before you know it and if you're like most parents, you're probably thinking about the best camp for your kids. There IS a place for young ostomates to be active, creative, playful, social, and most importantly, know they're not alone.

Youth Rally is a week-long summer camp for youth, ages 11-17, living with various congenital birth defects, chronic illness, and/or various traumas that affect their bowel and bladder systems. Staffed by volunteer counselors who live with similar diagnoses, this camping experience provides an encouraging environment that promotes self-confidence and independence. But when you get right down to it, going to Youth Rally camp is all about having FUN! Check out these awesome moments from past years.

What does Youth Rally summer camp experience offer kids?

Youth Rally President and CEO, Paul Hastings, camp counselors, and nurse volunteers can agree — it's all about providing campers with that one-of-a-kind "Rally" experience. A mixture of educational sessions, mentorship programs and recreational activities encourage positive self-esteem. Youth Rally camp is an amazing event, but don't take our word for it - hear what campers have to say!

"I enjoyed being here because there are kids that have medical stuff and I’m not scared to tell people about my medical stuff!"

"I met people who understand what I go through and who I can talk to about my issues without being embarrassed or self–conscious."

"I was diagnosed when I was ten and since then I have had quite a few hardships. I really enjoyed the Youth Rally, meeting new people who understand, and just having fun!"

"I was blown away by the kindness and empathy, and for the first time in my life I felt accepted and understood. I felt the warm, loving connection of a family." - Jenna Lee Fisher

"In the past four years attending camp I’ve made friends who have become a second family to me. This is a place where we can relax and enjoy life, but also learn about my illness and how to take care of myself." - Cody Mitchem

2017 Applications Are Underway

The 2017 Youth Rally Camp will take place at the University of California campus in San Diego, California from July 17-22. Camper applications are now available online, and for more information about volunteer opportunities or how you can help sponsor a camper, visit www.YouthRally.org.