Below is a list of frequently asked questions regarding Camp Spark.
Due to recent funding changes, we are unable to operate the same number of sessions as in past years. To continue providing a safe, high-quality camp experience, we made the decision to focus our resources on 4 sessions, ensuring that Camp Spark remains available for all campers.
Our hope is to expand back to more sessions as additional funding becomes available. We are actively seeking new funding sources and partnerships to make this possible.
We chose session dates that would allow the most campers to attend, based on past attendance trends, staffing availability, and facility access.
With the session changes, you are welcome to register for the session that best fits your camper! There is no longer a Washington or Oregon–specific session—campers from both states may attend any session.
We encourage families to join the waitlist, as spots sometimes open closer to camp. We also recommend registering as early as possible this year due to limited availability.
No. Each session will still include the same activities, programming, and support as in past years. The change only affects the number of sessions offered, not the quality of the camp experience.
Families who wish to help can:
Camp Spark is provided at no cost to our athletes and campers. Donations are always appreciated but never required—these allow us to continue and expand the impact of Camp Spark.
Some sessions are limited to residents of the states in which they are held, while others are open to campers selected by NWABA staff. Please reach out directly if your camper lives out of state to determine eligibility.
Yes! All Camp Spark sessions are overnight. We offer both weeklong and weekend sessions.
We hire professionals and pre-professionals in physical education, teaching, and vision fields from across the country. Our staff have extensive experience teaching sports, physical activity, and Expanded Core Curriculum skills through sports to youth with visual impairments. Additionally, we often host Paralympians to mentor campers.
All staff and volunteers complete a Voluntary Disclosure Statement, a comprehensive background check (including the National Sex Offender Registry), and a minimum of three professional reference checks.
Ratios vary by session and camper needs, but we strive for low ratios—typically one counselor for every 2–4 campers, with additional staff (nurses, leadership staff, volunteers) supporting throughout the day.
For campers who benefit from 1:1 support, please register them for Session 7.
Yes, there is always at least one RN on duty at all times. Nurses administer medications, handle both prescription and non-prescription needs, and respond to medical incidents.
Rooming arrangements differ by session. Options may include double-occupancy rooms, single rooms in a suite, or cabin-style housing. All assignments are based on identified gender.
Some sessions include opportunities for families to attend closing ceremonies and competitions. We ask that families only visit during scheduled times unless there is an emergency. Families can also follow along through photos posted on social media.
Sports vary by session, but common options include tandem biking, track and field, blind soccer, beep baseball, swimming, goalball, beep kickball, snowshoeing, and broomball.
Three healthy meals and snacks are provided daily. We work with dining staff to accommodate dietary needs. Campers may bring their own non-perishable snacks, but we encourage healthy choices as part of our nutrition education.
We discourage campers from bringing cell phones. If they do, phones will be kept by the Camp Director except during designated times. Campers may begin calling home on the second afternoon of camp.
Our staff are experienced in helping campers through homesickness. By keeping campers engaged in activities and building strong relationships, most campers adjust within the first few days.
For weeklong sessions, yes—families will receive mailing instructions about a week before camp begins. Mail is distributed during rest periods or before bed. For shorter sessions, families may leave letters with a counselor for distribution.
Camp staff complete an assessment for each camper highlighting their skills and achievements. Families and teachers of the visually impaired receive a copy to help support continued growth. Additionally, NWABA’s Sports Adaptations program provides adaptive equipment, videos, and PE consultations to make physical activity more accessible beyond camp.
NWABA provides sport and physical activity to individuals of all ages and abilities with visual impairments in various sports activities such as tandem biking, kayaking or skiing.
Our counselors, specialists and volunteers are vital elements to ensure we offer a truly life-changing experience for our campers.
Matthew Coelho, Programs Manager, Camp Spark & Youth Services at 360.726.5899 or mcoelho@nwaba.org.
Without our volunteers, we would not be able to serve as many people as we do.
NWABA offers many ways for you to make a profound impact on individuals of all ages and abilities, who are blind or visually impaired.