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Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp

Senior Capstone and Practicum at the Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp

Student resources

Interested in a two-week senior capstone?

We are looking for students who want to earn college credit as they serve as camp counselors for children and adults with varying abilities/disabilities. Located in the Mt. Hood National Forest, the camp offers a supervised supportive practicum in which to learn new skills, but most importantly, to broaden one’s understanding of persons with challenges different than your own. 

The goal of the Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp is to provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to engage in an exciting array of recreational activities in the outdoors. Our staff and student counselors work together to make the camp experience one of growth and joy for each individual.

Students who complete this course report it was personally challenging but highly rewarding. For most college students it is the first time they have assisted a person with disabilities in their daily personal care or learned to communicate in ways other than talking.

As a Kiwanis Camp counselor, you will stretch your vision of who you are and what you can do. You are never required to work alone; experienced and capable staff help you in all aspects of the program.

See a short video about Kiwanis Camp filmed for Oregon Public Broadcasting's (OPB) Oregon Field Guide:

Hear this counselor's story!

Kiwanis Capstone- Final Video from Jonathan Stark on Vimeo.

In this course, students:

  • Get to know and learn from people with disabilities
  • See the importance of access and inclusion of all persons with different abilities in our community
  • Prepare for professions in business, healthcare, social services, arts and communication, and all other occupations by learning to communicate and work with people with diverse and wide-ranging abilities
  • Become part of a supporting team of camp staff and counselors with one goal: that the camper participants have the time of their lives. Students learn a lot a about leadership and  teamwork and form lasting friendships.