Some experiences change lives in ways that are hard to fully explain until you see them firsthand. That is exactly what happens at RAD Camp. From the moment you arrive, it becomes clear that this is more than just a summer camp. It is a place where friendships are formed, confidence is built, and individuals with developmental disabilities are given the opportunity to experience independence, adventure, and pure joy.
RAD stands for Rising Above Disabilities, and that mission is at the heart of everything the organization does. RAD Camp is an award-winning nonprofit that provides transformative summer camp experiences for children, teens, and adults with developmental disabilities while also offering much-needed respite for their caregivers and a life-changing volunteer experience for members of the community. What makes RAD truly unique is its commitment to ensuring every camper is supported, included, and empowered. With a 1:1 camper-to-counselor ratio, each camper receives individualized attention that allows them to fully participate in the camp experience and build meaningful connections with others. Today, RAD Camp has grown to become the largest overnight summer camp of its kind in California, serving hundreds of campers through inclusive programs designed to foster confidence, independence, and personal growth.
Each summer, RAD hosts multiple week-long camp sessions designed specifically for individuals with developmental disabilities. Campers participate in activities ranging from art, music, drama, science, and sports to unforgettable camp traditions like concerts, dances, and festival celebrations. These experiences are intentionally designed not only for fun, but to help campers build social connections, life skills, and greater independence. Behind the scenes, an incredible team of counselors, volunteers, and medical professionals works around the clock to ensure every camper is safe, supported, and able to fully enjoy the experience. Supported by more than 1,000 volunteers, RAD Camp now serves hundreds of campers and families each year, creating life-changing experiences for everyone involved.
For caregivers, RAD Camp offers something equally important: a rare opportunity to rest. Caring for a child or adult with developmental disabilities is often a 24-hour responsibility, and many caregivers rarely have the chance to step away. Through our partnership with RAD, LIFT is proud to sponsor special events and experiences designed specifically for caregivers, giving them time to recharge, connect with one another, and be supported by a community that understands their journey.
At LIFT, we believe in supporting organizations that create meaningful opportunities for individuals and families in our community, and RAD Camp is a powerful example of that impact in action. Through our partnership with RAD, we are proud to help expand access to these life-changing experiences and ensure that families who need them most can continue to participate. RAD Camp is deeply committed to accessibility and never turns a camper away because of financial hardship, making community support essential to keeping these programs available to everyone who needs them. Together with RAD Camp, we are helping create a place where every camper can build confidence, discover new friendships, and experience the joy of belonging, because everyone deserves the opportunity to Rise Above.
To learn more about RAD Camp, visit: https://radcamp.org/
