Discover our new and improved Panhandle Area Camp for kids aged 7 to 12, set in the beautiful Dogwood Acres, a 457-acre expanse of pristine forests, freshwater streams, and adventure. This five-day camp for campers combines the excitement of outdoor activities with essential diabetes education and care. Camp life here focuses on connecting children with peers who share similar experiences, making it a special place where they realize they’re not alone in their diabetes journey. Activities, ranging from arts and crafts to swimming to outdoor sports, are designed to show that fun has no limits. Educationally, we empower our campers with diabetes self-care skills, fostering independence and confidence. Spearheaded by pediatric endocrinologists and supported by a medical team from the Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, our camp ensures a medically supervised, nurturing setting. Join us at the Tallahassee Area Camp for a fulfilling experience where nature, adventure, and diabetes education blend seamlessly, paving the way for lifelong memories and friendships. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION Florida Camp for Children and Youth with Diabetes (FCCYD) was incorporated in 1970 by dedicated individuals and physicians to provide diabetes management education and psychological support to youngsters with type one diabetes. The organization is a non-profit organization that does not receive any governmental money nor is it underwritten by any national diabetes organization. An independent volunteer Board of Directors governs FCCYD. Florida Diabetes Camp is a statewide agency headquartered in Gainesville. For decades, the organization has served children from Florida, Georgia and throughout the SouthEast. Florida Diabetes Camp is much more than just “camp”. In addition to the usual recreational activities associated with camping, scheduled diabetes education sessions are conducted by pediatric endocrinologists and diabetes educators at all programs. Caring individuals provide motivation and support for the children to learn self-care, independence in diabetes management and good self-esteem. On an annual basis:over 110,000 blood sugar tests are taken over 50,000 insulin shots or pump boluses are given over 250,000 units of insulin are used Pharmaceutical companies donate nearly $250,000 worth of diabetes supplies each year. Over 200 volunteers including physicians, nurses, dieticians, psychologists, medical students, teachers, young adults and just plain good folks donated over $ 500,000 worth of services to ensure the best care possible for the children. All other costs associated with a child or family attendance at a program are covered by fees, sponsorships, and donations. Since the founding of the organization, the policy of the Board of Directors has been that all children can attend regardless of the family’s financial situation. Therefore donations from those who believe in our mission are essential for the programs to continue and to grow. Florida's first diabetes camp was organized by Wilma Van Der Beek in 1962 under the auspices of the Florida Diabetes Association (Camp Fladia). Over the next 8 years it grew from 40 to 85 campers per summer. Florida Camp for Children and Youth with Diabetes (FCCYD) was incorporated in 1970 by Dr. Arlan Rosenbloom. More than 50 years later, FCCYD serves over 400 youngsters ages 6-18 at its six summer sessions and another 700 youngsters and their families in weekend sessions throughout the year.