About Joe's Camp 2024
August 16-18 | Crowders Springs | Gastonia, NC
Ages 8-13
A camp for KIDS whose family has been touched by ALS.
When & Where
Joe's Camp 2024 is August 16-18 at Crowders Springs in Gastonia, NC.
Parent's Day
In addition to our overnight program, we also offer a "Parent's Day" program that discusses topics such as "Parenting Through ALS" and a caregiving training session for the parents, grandparents, and caregivers of our campers who are attending for the weekend.
NEW! Teen Program
Joe's Camp & Hike is our NEW Teen Program happening September 13-15 at Camp Cherokee in Kings Mountain State Park, SC. It is a free weekend hike designed to give teens, ages 14-17, the chance to have fun, explore brand-new activities, and talk about ALS with other teens who understand.
Volunteer
Have you been touched by ALS? Would you like to have fun at Joe's Camp and give back, too? We invite you to apply to Joe's Camp at Crowders Springs in Gastonia, North Carolina. All volunteers will be interviewed by Joe Martin ALS Foundation Staff, must provide three references, and will have a criminal background check completed.
What to Expect
Explore Joe's Camp
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no cost to attend Joe's Camp. The weekend includes lodging, meals, and all the fun for free! This is made possible by our generous supporters.
Joe's Camp is for children ages 8-13.
Looking for our teen program for ages 14-17? Click here.
Participants must provide their own transportation to and from camp.*
*Joe's Camp Scholarships may be applied for to help cover transportation costs.
Campers will need to bring linens, towels and personal items. A full packing list will be provided closer to the time of camp.
All volunteer counselors and assistant counselors set the tone for the weekend by participating in each activity, helping with meal preparation and clean up, and setting the example of friendliness, enthusiasm, and inclusion.
Our camp will be led by Joe's Camp Director Lizz Updegraff, our volunteer camp counselors, camp nurse and the wonderful staff at Crowders Springs. All staff, leadership and counselors will be fully vetted and interviewed by Joe Martin ALS Foundation staff with references and criminal background checks performed. Volunteers with a personal connection to ALS are encouraged to apply.
Questions?
If you have questions or would like to speak to someone about Joe's Camp, please call The Joe Martin ALS Foundation office at (704) 332-1929 or send an email to Joe's Camp Director Lizz Updegraff at [email protected].
2024 Camp Sponsorship Opportunities
Joe's Camp Overnight Program is free for children to attend. Sponsors are needed to help offset the costs of providing this camp. If you are interested in supporting our camp, read through the needs below and make a contribution to The Joe Martin ALS Foundation on our Donate page. Be sure to indicate in the comment box that you would like your donation to go towards camp.
We appreciate your support in helping us make this a great weekend for our campers and their families! Our mission is to help families face the challenge of living actively with ALS by providing free home care services, and children are an important part of the families we serve. We are excited to offer this camp for these brave caregivers.
To request a scholarship for your camper, please email our Camp Director Lizz Updegraff at [email protected] or click the button below.
Our Mission
The Joe Martin ALS Foundation's mission is to empower families as they face the challenge of living actively with ALS by providing home care and other services at no cost.
We Believe
We believe a strong support net can help people living with ALS (PALS) and their families obtain the best caregiving techniques, equipment, and bolster their will to fight this disease.