Enhancing the quality of programs at the KOC to support a uniquely diverse client group

The Kinark Outdoor Centre (KOC) has a rich history of residential camping, outdoor education, recreational programming, and community building. From skill development, family enrichment, social recreation, respite, and adventure-based experiences, the KOC offers high-quality programming and once-in-a-lifetime experiences in a safe, well-supported and natural environment.

The KOC provides children and youth with a special-needs diagnosis, and their families, the opportunity to try new activities in a supported camp environment. Additional fee-for-service outdoor recreation and community building programs are available for schools, faith-based organizations and therapeutic groups. Funds generated by these programs help to support our specialized programs, meals and the camp infrastructure.

Kinark invested in improving the accommodations at the Kinark Outdoor Centre. Showers were added to four cabins, and others received fresh paint and window coverings. The kitchen was renovated, and the Eagle’s Nest received a face lift to create a recreation room for teens. In addition, the menu was revised to include alternative meal options, and a pre-order process was established.

The KOC also added new play-based equipment and adaptive sensory equipment as well as new paddle boards.

The expanded cabins and healthier food options better met the needs of families visiting the KOC:

“The addition of separate showers in the cabins positively impacted the client’s experiences.”

“The addition of the individual shower made a huge difference, mostly safety.”

“It was comfortable, it was clean…it was a luxury… it was easier to relax in a nicer space.”

90% (or 9/10) of families reported their dietary needs were met.

"The kitchen staff were tremendously accommodating. I can’t stress enough how supportive and easy it was to deal with them."

"I was super impressed with the food options. There was always some healthy choices and alternatives especially if parents didn't want chicken fingers 🙂 Salad bar was perfect and had a few different choices each day. Our son was able to find lots to eat."