Changing the World…
One Camper at a Time
Independent Camp Dates: July 27-August 1, 2025
Emergent Literacy Family Retreat: TBA
Literacy Counselor applications are LIVE click here
Camp ALEC is a week-long independent summer camp specifically designed for children with physical disabilities whose primary mode of communication is AAC (augmentative and alternative communication). Our goal is to improve AAC Literacy, Education, and Communication.
The Camp ALEC Emergent Literacy Family Retreat welcomes parents and or caregivers to learn alongside their child whose primary mode of communication is AAC. Together they stay in cabins, with other families creating bonds that can last a lifetime.
Camp ALEC was inspired by Alec Cunningham, who never gave up and whose passion for learning was never extinguished. We wanted Alec to receive the education he deserved. Now, we've directed our passion toward educating as many teachers as possible so that they too can empower children like Alec.
At camp, everyone is family.
“I can’t thank everyone at Camp ALEC enough for making this such a meaningful experience for her. Since camp, she’s been a completely different person. We’ve incorporated so many of the suggestions from her report, and it’s been wonderful to see her communication skills improve, especially with writing activities.
Thank you all for the love and support you’ve shown us!”
- Caleb - Dad of first-time camper
Need-To-Knows
Is My Camper Eligible?
This independent camp was specifically designed for children who use AAC devices to communicate, but other campers may also be considered if space allows. Learn more here:
Can I Volunteer?
Camp ALEC does not take volunteers. Learn more about why in our FAQ
How much Does Camp Cost?
Camper fees are $1100 per camper, and are subject to change. Camp ALEC has been able to reduce the original cost thanks to donations made. However, funding camp can be challenging for many families. We have strategies that can help!
Can I attend with my camper?
Nope! Camp ALEC is designed to build your camper’s independence. You’ll be shocked at the confidence they come home with.
Can I Donate?
Camp ALEC is a 501c3 non-profit. Donations make this project possible. If you would like to help send a child to camp, or if you would like to sponsor a camper, click below:
Have More Questions?
We have answers! Check out our FAQ’s for our most commonly asked questions.
We hear you.
“Campers feel their voices are heard while at camp. We take the time to listen and wait while campers compose their message to us. We hear them and respond accordingly, even when it is to pull a prank on us.”
- Gina Cunningham
“We know that at camp we can’t change a child’s literacy life during this five or six days that they’re here. But what the kids leave with is a really carefully thought through plan of what we would do if we had the privilege of teaching them throughout the entire school year. Year after year, we see campers come back where it is really clear that people took those recommendations to heart. We see kids who at 10 and 12 couldn’t read at all who at 14 and 15 are reading and writing in all kinds of sophisticated ways.”
Dr. Karen Erickson
Let's Chat.
Have Questions? Let us know. We’re here to help.