The Betsy Smith Inclusive Summer Camp Scholarship
Sharing the Joy of Camp with Every Child
We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to experience the joy and growth that comes from attending summer camp.
The Betsy Smith Inclusive Summer Camp scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to parents of children with disabilities, enabling them to participate in inclusive summer camps.
Everyone Included…
IncludeNJ and the New Jersey Coalition for Inclusive Education have partnered to offer this scholarship to families whose children will attend summer camps that provide a supportive and inclusive environment for all children.
Scholarship Details:
Eligibility: Children with disabilities entering K-10th grade who have been approved as campers at an inclusive summer camp for the summer of 2025.
Scholarship Benefits: The scholarship can be used toward camp fees, meals at camp, accommodations, and camp transportation.
How to Apply: Please fill out the application form below to apply for the scholarship.
Deadline: The deadline for scholarship applications is September 30, 2024.
Selection Process: To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must first be approved as campers and pay the camp deposit. Scholarships will be awarded based on family financial need, as determined through the scholarship application. Please note that due to limited funds, not all campers with need may receive scholarships.
About Betsy Smith
Throughout her life, Betsy Smith was a tireless advocate for people with disabilities, working hard to break down barriers and promote inclusion. As one of the first students with Down syndrome to be included in general education classes in New Jersey, she has achieved many impressive accomplishments. These include graduating with honors from Montclair High School, living independently in her apartment, attending classes at Montclair State University, and thriving in her over 20-year career at the Montclair YMCA. In addition to these achievements, Betsy also delivered speeches and keynotes, participated in panels across the country, and was recognized as a role model by Exceptional Parent magazine in 2000. She was an active member of the New Jersey Coalition for Inclusive Education Board of Directors and has previously served on the boards of the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities, the Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center, and President Clinton’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities.
Donate to support the scholarship.
If you believe in our mission and want to support children with disabilities in attending summer camp, please consider making a donation to our scholarship program. Your contribution will make a difference in the lives of these children and help them create lasting memories this summer.
