Happy Hollow Children's Camp, Inc.

This is a great organization! Many of my comrads have benefit from this program! My very first job was at Happy Hollows Children's Camp and I absolutely loved Marty, the staff, the camp and the campers!!!

Love that children who may not otherwise be able to afford camp get to experience the joys of outdoor education, learn to appreciate nature and build teamwork and leadership skills to prepare them to be engaged members of our community.

My children had an amazing experience at Happy Hollow sleep away camp. They were able to enjoy so many fun activities (favorites were horseback riding, geode findings & new games learned) & have a week of no screen time! My youngest got a little homesick at night but with the care and encouragement she received from the councilors she was able to push past fears/uncomfortably and then was so proud of herself once she did. They came home full of good memories made, new friendship stories & an extra level of confidence. As a parent, I am grateful to the care my daughters and I received from the counselors and the low price to make it possible. We will definitely be back.

I have had several grandchildren and my foster children attend Happy Hollow, they are all adults now, and they still remember the good experiences and have maintained some of the friendships they made in Happy Hollow.

The staff was amazing, welcoming, and friendly, my children learned a lot and they applied those things they learned into their daily lives such as respecting all people, making friends, and activities they still enjoy and do on holidays when we are together as a family. A few of them were invited back to become counselors and this was amazing.

Some of these children have not had any experience spending the night out, camping, hiking, or enjoying the summer free from fears of the inner city, and they were able to open up and enjoy themselves immensely. I recommend this camp to all families and would vote for them a million times over again.

2 of my kids got the wonderful opportunity to go to summer camp for a very affordable price. They loved every minute of it. They made new friends and learned about nature. They loved the activities. Next year I'm hoping to send all 3 of my kids.

I loved going to this camp just like my mom did before me and my kids after me I even have paid for other kids to go to have a camp experience unlike any other

This organization truly cares about the children that attend. The staff is so friendly and work so hard to make sure that every child has a great time at camp.

Great summer camp for kids! Serves underprivileged kids diabetic kids and many others.

Oh my goodness my mom would send my sister and I to this camp 1981 82 and 83 for two weeks.. What an experience! Horse back riding, canoeing, swimming in the lake, all the groups will meet up every night and sing songs like the cat came back lol breakfast every morning singing rise and shine give God the glory glory! Memories for a life time! One of our counselors end up being in the Olympics, can't remember her name right now , but great place!

Hi I'm so excited to be able to leave this review! My name is Carmen and I attended Happy Hollow in 1966 - 1967. It was offered through Fletcher Place Community Center which I was an active member. I was 10 years old and was thrilled when I was given the opportunity to visit. Most of the kids who lived in my neighborhood came from hard working but low income families. Fletcher Place was a safe haven for us where we could be involved in gymnastics, cooking classes, sewing and recreational activities.

Being able to go to Happy Hollow was the best experience of my life. We had scheduled supervised activities with wonderful Camp Counselors and great food! I looked forward to all the activities, I learned so much, made friends, felt so safe and secure and had a great time!
I am now 65 years of age and still have those wonderful memories to reflect on. I still remember all the wonderful experiences, all the great fun and the Camp Counselors who were so patient and supportive.

Thank you Happy Hollow for never giving up on helping the children and continuing your absolutely inspiring work!

Happy Hollow is a wonderful experience for local children. It gives them the opportunity to get them out of the city and enjoy the outdoors.

Happy Hollow camp works to provide children with a wonderful and education outdoor and overnight camping experience. The money that we raise goes to provide camperships to children who cannot afford to attend summer camp.

Want a way to help inner city children learn about and enjoy the outdoors while making friends along the way? If so you must support this Happy Hollow Children’s Camp. It is a remarkable place that enhances children’s lives.

My daughter was not excited about camp. She was nervous and scared. She's always been shy, lacking in self confidence, and motivation. Upon her return from camp she was sad, because she didn't want to leave camp. She was so excited to share her experiences, all she learned, & talk about the new friends she had made. She felt good about herself and proud of all she learned and the things she tried, even though she was nervous about trying them. She talked about camp the rest of the summer and I'm pleased to say the confidence and initiative she gained by going to camp, has not escaped her.

I have had the privilege of attending Happy Hollow Children's Asthma Camp as a nurse for about thirty years and have been on the board of directors for twenty-five years. We serve underprivileged intercity children who otherwise would not have the opportunity to experience the outdoors that includes horses, a lake, canoeing, archery, campfires and hiking. We ask a minimum amount from their families as we write grants and fund raise for the dollars to send them to camp. Many of our campers have come back after growing up to tell up that we made a huge difference in their lives, which is most gratifying.

My kids love Happy Hollow. They were extremely sad the camp had to close this summer due to Covid-19. They can't wait until camp reopens.

My daughter started attending Happy Hollow asthma camp when she was in the 2nd grade. She went all the way through until she was no longer eligible to be a camper. At that point she became a CIT. After reaching the ceiling on that, she had aspirations on becoming one of the regular Camp counselors. Unfortunately covid-19 has prevented her from realizing that goal. Happy Hollow children's camps, in my daughter's words, "Is Awesome"! Along with their Day camps, they also have (sleep-away) Asthma camps & Diabetic camps for children dealing with those issues. The staff was always on top of things and extremely friendly! Happy Hollow is an all-around winner!

I absolutely loved this camp as a child. I have very fond memories.My sons were second generation campers. They loved it also. I learned about nature, sportsmanship, crafrs, canoeing and hiking. Singing songs areound the camp/bon fire was a favorite activity also.
I wish they had weeks for adults/seniors to stay at thye camp.
HAPPY HOLLOW is a wonderful place foe memories.

Sandy Garner

I attended Happy Hollow Camp many many years ago. I had to sale candy to go& enjoyed going so much I would sale enough to go the entire summer! I made friends that lasted a life time & I grew into a young adult that was employed at Happy Hollow too! Swimming , hiking, archery, & mud doggin' were my favorite activities. I can even remember the sweet camp songs I learned here...ha ha ha!

In today's climate it important to understand Happy Hollow has been focusing on the under-served population of Indianapolis and surrounding areas with a world class summer camping experience. So as the rest of the country begins to focus on this group of kids, Happy Hollow has been doing it for 60-years!
An awesome camp run by an awesome organization and people!

The underprivileged and under served kids that we give a free week of camp are the most vulnerable yet the most receptive. The influence we give them in one short week of a better way of life in the relaxed and stress free environment of our camp does make a difference in their lives. Unfortunately, since most of our alum are poor, we have a hard time with fund raising at times. Most folks say they care about underprivileged kids but rarely put their money to back up the claim. Thanks to a great group of folks who do back up their claim, we continue to serve.

I've been going to this camp as a camper/staff for more than half my life. I have loved every summer!

What a great experience for my foster son! He loved it so much we signed up for a second week of camp.

Getting opportunities like this means so much for underprivileged children. Thank you for being an excellent provider for kids in need.

I was thrilled to learn about this incredible organization over the past year and I continue to be impressed with its long-standing legacy!

Happy Hollow Children's Camp is an exemplary organization that benefits children that otherwise would not have the opportunity to experience camp life. Along with sharing cabins, large caferiteria meals and camp fires, the camp provides educational experiences that include archery, swimming, canoeing, fishing, biking, hiking and many others.

Happy Hollow is in a serene setting, away from the day to day noise, providing a time to focus on the outdoors. I encourage any of those reading this to research more, visit the camp and give to support the children served.

God Bless.

Not only was I a camper for 8 years, but I got to take part in the CIT program one summer, then returned as staff for 2 summers. I also, then, volunteered as a Respiratory Therapist for a few summers for Asthma camp. Happy Hollow offers so much to everyone who is involved. The kids get amazing experiences they wouldn’t normally get to have and they touch the lives of every person that’s there to help them.

Happy Hollow makes a big impact on kids going to the camp from the inner city that otherwise wouldn't have the opportunity to build friendships, team work, and other skills like endurance during adversity that will help them throughout their lives. I've seen many kids come to the camp shy and scared and wanting to go home and by the time the end of the camp comes, they are crying because they don't want to leave . There is a lot of fundraiser work that happens throughout the year to make the cost to parents very low, since they are from underprivileged homes.

Happy hollow children's camp is the most positive environment for a young person. They provide a learning experience by encouraging kids to try new things and introduce a lot of them to the outdoors.

Top notch facilities including 800+ acres. Dedicated full time and seasonal staff. Wide-range of exciting programs and the food is delicious...

This camp provided my children with an experience that they will remember. The staff provided a safe social and allowed both of my children the chance to explore nature.

Child's first time away from home and not with family. Staff was accommodating and worked well with her. Motivated and encourage her through her fears and was very patient.

Happy Hollow Camp is an amazing opportunity for all children! Especially mine because I've always wanted to have him involved in as many things as possible but fundings are always alittle tight. This we can afford he's attended 2 years in a row and has not one thing negative to say about the place. Very active and busy camp. Great staff he really connects with(which is rare). We're just very grateful a friend had mentioned this camp to us because he plans to attend the next two years if possible until he's of age to not be able to go anymore. Hes always looking foward to the next year. Plus some of his friends from school go then they get to know each other better. Thank you Happy Hollow Camp for letting my son make memories that he'll never forget with you!♡!

my daughter and niece loved camp. the price was cheaper than daycamp. their experiences will be remembered forever

Great job Happy Hollow. My child had an absolute blast. Thank you for helping children develop and providing this experience.

I worked and lived here for two months and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I learned so many new skills as a counselor and an instructor. This organization treats all of it's guests with respect. As a camp they teach children family values that may have been forgotten in many homes. We sing, eat, learn and play together as a big family with the children every week. The counselors get to be kids again and learn the role of being a parent/role model first hand. The kids get try new things they probably would never have tried if they didn't go to camp. I've seen kids get over their fears by holding snakes, riding a horse, going on a creek hike, and doing the high ropes course. They can learn to shoot a bow and arrow, go boating, learn new art crafts, and do team building challenges. Happy Hollow Children's Camp deserves all the praise it can get. This place changes peoples lives and I will be back next year for sure.

Great charity that has helped thousands of children experience nature for many years.

Happy Hollow Children's camp provides great camping experiences for children ages 7-14. Not only am I a BOD member, but I coordinate our annual Asthma camp each year. Which means I live at camp one week every summer and can experience first hand what the kids experience.

We love Happy Hollow Camp. We have sent both of our boys there and they have come back with so many stories of how much fun they had. There staff is top notch and the cmp is absolutely beautiful.

Rob Deppert

My children were nervous about going to camp now they are excited to return next year.

My son loved it. He felt safe and secured. He said that the listened to him. They really care.

My boys have went 2 summers and they love it !! They always come home and say how great their counselors are !!

For many, many years I have been truly impressed by the caring attention given to all the campers from all their various backgrounds. The camp itself is extremely well maintained and truly an asset to to the children of Indiana.

I love Happy Hollow camp!! 2017 was my child's and mine first time being away from each other and family and friends for her she had never had to fin for herself I also asked people about the camp and most of them had been as kids and they said that they had an excellent time to send her and also my daughters god mother use to be the secretary for happy hollow so she highly recommended that I send her. And from talking to one of the Happy hollow administrative staff members (EVERYDAY FOR 3 WEEKS) before I sent her she reassured me that they make them feel safe they teach them not to be afraid she assured me that they keep them safe and not to worry that and she assured me that Jason vendors from Friday 13th will not get her nor can he find them because the camp is so far out. lol and the time will pass by before you know it . she also told me that I can continue to call her while my daughter was at camp and she will call down and check on her and if that wasn't enough then I can call there myself and they will make sure that they got a message to call home and to make sure that they called home. well the day that I called they told me a certain time and they will make sure that she was there to receive my call they did and I did needless to say my daughter wasn't thinking about me because she was having so much fun and that she barely stayed on the phone because she was trying to get back to camp. that made me feel better. I still called the office to talk to the administrative team member. Although I knew I was getting on her nerves and she had to work she didn't say it she told me you know "I will be going to the camp on day this week and I will check on her myself" and she told me to make sure that I called so she can give me an update on her and she did. they also told me that I could write but it would be better to email because it would get to your child faster. so I did and it did. My child had the best time in her life away from home!! and (she didn't get any chiggers) lol so she will be going next year and all of the years that they are open and have room for her age group. THANK YOU HAPPY HOLLOW

My children have attended HHCC for the past 4 or 5 years. They love this place and we'll continue to come until they are too old to come. HHCC has taught them so many fun things to do and learn and has become a staple in our summers. It is also a safe place for them to go. Not only that, it's very affordable. We love HHCC!

My girls have attended Happy Hollow for the last two years. The highlight of their summer is attending camp at Happy Hollow. They absolutely Love it. The activities, the environment, and most of all the counselors. They do a great job with the kids.

The staff is exceptional !! My children had a wonderful experience . I would recommend this camp to any parent who is looking forward to their children having a awesome adventure .

This has been the best experience for my child. I would never be able to afford to send her to a camp like Happy Hollow. Due to the diligent efforts and the amazing people at Happy Hollow my daughter has had a childhood full of amazing camp stories.

My daughter stayed with you guys the week of July 16-21, 2017. Tamyra would stop talking about her time at camp. from all the next experiences she had and the new friends she met. The fantastic teachers and helpful team members. We are so excited for the 2018 camping trip.

Being part of this organization allows me to see the impact that getting children out of urban areas and into nature can have. Seeing the campers learn about different activites that are done outside of the city fills my heart. I highly recommend this camp to all parents. It truly is an amazing opportunity.

Happy Hollow is a wonderful camp for underprivileged youth. The joy that you see on their faces after a week of backwoods fun is priceless.

Happy Hollow is always searching for ways to better the campers' experiences and reach as many kids as possible. This organization has been a huge part of my life as a camper, a camp counselor, and now as a volunteer.

I was very impressed with this camp I sent my daughter to. The staff was very friendly and professional. They take great care to make sure that the campers are safe and have a variety of
activities orientated towards healthy exercise and fun. My daughter has a special need, that was taken into consideration and dealt was accordingly. I was very grateful that the camp was affordable and fitted to our financial budget. I would and have recommended Happy Hollow to all my friends and neighbors with children and or grandchildren. This was the second summer my child attended Happy Hollow and I was very satisfied with the whole experience.

I was initially attracted to working with Happy Hollow Camp because I personally believe an appreciation of nature is essential to being a well-rounded person and Happy Hollow was unique among the groups we support in that they were the only ones to provide an experience focused on the outdoors for the kids. I soon found that this camp is so much more than a way for kids to spend a week exploring the woods. Most of the summer campers come from extremely difficult family, social and economic situations and this camp offers many of them a first glimpse at an entirely different world; one which many of them have never even imagined. They are exposed to experiences they are simply not afforded in their normal lives, many of which can be personally challenging, but once they are able to overcome their apprehension and accomplish something they did not think they could, it changes them forever and gives them the confidence to change other parts of their lives. The physical and mental changes many campers experience in one short week are truly amazing. The number of children that return for multiple summers and who eventually become counselors, is a testament to the positive experience they have each year. I have come to appreciate Happy Hollow for being so much more than a simple summer camp. It is a place where kids can build confidence and learn to overcome obstacles and eventually change the world around them for the better.

Words can not express how wonderful this camp is. The camp dedicates a week for asthma camp. If you are looking for a fun filled week that is safe for your child, this place has it all! It is heaven on earth. The staff, volunteers, and leadership are all great. You can tell that their hearts are dedicate to kids.

Happy Hollow camp turns children who have never stayed away from home or been out in the country into nature lovers. They learn to enjoy creeks, horseback riding, new healthy foods, each other all while showing respect to the adult leaders and their surrounding. The camp program has a profound impact on the children who attend and their families. At the same time, counselors develop as leaders and build lifelong friendships with each other and give back to the camp for years to follow.

My kids love going to Happy Hollow Children's Camp. They look forward to it every year. They Love all the activities and the staff. I think the only time they ever have anything bad to say is if the weather is bad which is nothing the camp can do to change that. They do still try to have fun with the kids despite the weather. My kids will go for as long as they can and I think they will even want to become staff members too.

My girls did not like the fact that the counselors were not nice. Some said the screamed and not real friendly. Don't know if others had that problem

Happy Hollow Camp has provided Asthma Camp for many years now. I am a Respiratory Therapist and Certified Asthma Educator for Eskenazi Health which serves the underserved and low income families. My outpatient clinic has donated money to help send asthmatics to this camp for the past 6 years. The camp is life changing for our campers, we see such a difference in them when they return and almost all of them want to return year after year. We have had several campers become a counselor in training when they turn 16. Asthma Camp is such a valuable service for our community.

Thank you,
Annmarie Thomas RRT, AE-C
Eskenazi Health Asthma Coordinator

My children enjoyed their experience at Happy Hollow Camp. I would highly recommend this camp to others.

This year was my kids first year attending camp at Happy Hollow. Being a mother of 2 boys close in age, camps and activities become very expensive. Happy Hollow exceeded my boys expectation of camp. The 2 loved Happy Hollow so much! My boys went horse back riding, canoeing, hiking and so much more. Things that city kids do not experience. The staff was professional, organized and courteous. We are looking forward to next summer!

I have had a child in this program for the past 20 years. My oldest child is 28 and now my youngest is 10 and I even have a granddaughter that went.
I love this camp.
My 17 year old son loves it so much he has come back to be a camp counselor. I can't say enough about this program!

I have loved Happy Hollow Children's Camp for the past 16 years! I spent 3 years there as a staff member where I built life long friendships! Years later as a foster mom, I was able to send my children to camp! They have so many great memories as well! They are an amazing organization!

I have spent a total of eleven summer's at Happy Hollow. Five of those summers were spent as a camper the other six as a staff member. Words cannot express how much this camp and the people who run it mean to me. Being able to leave the city for a whole week as a child was a dream come true and it was something that my mother could afford. At Happy Hollow it may not always seem like it but they do really make a difference in the lives of others. Being able to give children who are less fortunate than myself or the staff a great week at camp was extremely rewarding and I would do it again and again if I could. I truly hope that HHC can continue to change the lives of little children like they have done for me and countless others.

We sent our 2 youngest to camp this past summer. We have always been skeptical of camps since our daughter has many allergies and our son is on medication.

The Happy Hollow camp's staff was wonderful. They made sure they understood everything and labeled each item with their name before we left for the bus.

Both of our children loved the camp and cannot wait until next summer!

For six years of my early life as an adult, I spent summers working at Happy Hollow. It was such a magical place. Having the opportunity to work with kids from Indianapolis has been one of the highlights of my life. I learned so much from the campers - one special talent I acquaire was the ability to cornrow and french braid. My daughter (now 22) and many of her friends benefitted from this skill that was honed at Happy Hollow.

I am a better person today because of the time spent working in the woods of Brown County with some of the most wonderful people - both staff and campers. It's been a few years since I last visited, but what remarkable changes have been made in the over 30 years since I was blessed to be a staff member there. I am amazed at what spectacular work Bernie and his staff have done.

My daughter went this last summer and can not wait to go again. She came back with confidence and many stories to tell.

We send students every year to Happy Hollow for team building and Community Service work. The staff is always very well trained and prepared. They take the time to be involved in prior planning and everything works smoothly even when unexpected weather events cause a change of plans. The kitchen staff provide nutritious, well-balanced meals that students and teachers actually like. Clean, well-maintained facilities add to the universal praise our school has given Happy Hollow. It is why we keep coming back.

Mitch Chabraja
Assistant Principal/IB Diploma Coordinator
International School of Indiana

Happy Hollow Children's Camp is doing great work in our Indianapolis community by helping underprivileged youth get to experience the joys of summer camp. For the last 65 years, Happy Hollow has been providing life skill and team building experiences for these children in a beautiful setting down in Brown County Indiana (about 40 mins south of Indianapolis).

I attended Happy Hollow Camp when I was a child, probably around 10 years old. It was a life-changing experience for me. I have never forgotten what a wonderful opportunity it was for me and my siblings. Our family didn't have much and we were eventually taken away from our parents, so to have an opportunity to go to Happy Hollow Camp meant the world to me. We learned so much and had so many wonderful activities. It felt good to feel like you belonged somewhere. I am 63 years old now and still so very grateful. Thank you.

My Daughters first camp experience away from home . The staff was excellent and she had a wonderful time

My daughter has great time every year. She looks forward to this camp. She will pack her bag 2 weeks early and start counting down to send of. When she gets home she is so excited. She loves the horses and the zip lining. She makes so many new friends . She talks no stop for about an hour about all of the things at camp. My family loves happy hollow. My daughters have been going there for 15 years. They give the city kids an opportunity to experience things that they aren't normally exposed to.

My daughter came home with a new outlook on life. Encouraged that she could be anything, she was excited to come back and hopefully be a camp counselor because she has reached the max age. She made a lot of new connections for a life time. This camp is a wonderful asset to any child that can attend.

I worked here over the summer and it was an extremely rewarding and amazing experience! Every child who came loved every second of it! Happy hollow is one of my favourite places on the planet. Would love to visit again as I'm sure all the children and and other staff feel the same! Such an amazing organisation and I hope many more people can have the experience I had.

I worked In Happy Hollow Children's Camp as a horse riding instructor/counsilor.They gave me somuch experience and made my summer happy and worthful.I met a lot of good person and a lot of amazing kids.This is a place where they can have fun,and they will.A few kids cme here with the thought that they won't enjoy it..But at the second they they sang the songs the loudest,they were the first at hiking and they wanted to do the most fun in the camp.Happy Hollow Camp is an amazing place which can give children fun,hope,love and in it's best way.I will return in two years and I know it gets only better and better.

I grew up on a farm in Michigan and when I discovered Happy Hollow, I felt like I had found a home away from my home. Their year round staff are some of the most dedicated people I've ever meet. Now as I'm expecting my first child, my husband and I already know that we'll be sending our children here. Their activities are amazing and varied. From hiking, swimming and archery to horseback riding, arts & crafts, and canoeing, Happy Hollow gives children an amazing experiences that they'll remember for a lifetime!

As a newer board member, We have excellent facilities and staff, dedicated to sharing the outdoor experience with kids who would otherwise not get this experience in their regular lives. I have had the opportunity to meet a number of former campers and counselors, who shared their joy and growth after even just one week at Happy Hollow Children's Camp. Come and share the joy with us!

As a leader in youth development for 25 years, the various organizations I have worked with have collaborated with Happy Hollow on many occasions. The youth clients we referred to Happy Hollow were always very pleased with the experience and especially enjoyed meeting guidance counselors with international life experience. It broadened kids perspective to our global society. Typically the kids we referred would have spent their summer in the house watching TV because of safety concerns for them being outside in a high-risk crime area or because the kids were just not accustomed to the great outdoors. Seeing the change in kid's confidence levels and excitement about their summer experience was always great testament to the excellent work of Happy Hollow camp staff. --- Tonja Eagan, CEO, Social Health Association of Indiana

I went to Happy Hollow every summer as a child. When I aged out I came back as a counselor-in-training, and then again as a counselor/horseback riding instructor during my summers while in college. The staff and grounds of this camp are special and create a unique community full of love, tolerance, and support. My times at Happy Hollow are some of my most cherished memories and I haven't spoken to anyone else who doesn't feel the same.

a good place an environment for children to be children. learning new experiences and making friends. also life skills are a benefit that they learn there.

This is a wonderful camp that serves the needs of children in central Indiana. The staff is hard working and focuses the resources of camp towards the needs of the children. I have worked as a volunteer with this camp for over 25 years.

My son loves going to Happy Hollow! It's the best part of his summer every year. I'm so thankful and appreciative of the opportunity to be able to send my son to such a great summer camp.

Happy Hollow Children's Camp is a camp that sees you where you are, and without a doubt, makes a lasting impression on your life. The love, support, creativity, and determination of the Happy Hollow Staff is something that you would not normally see in a workplace. The enthusiasm, eagerness, and bright spirits gleaming from the students are the inspiration and motivation that keeps the camp moving. I believe that Happy Hollow Camp is a place of love, warmth, and something that everyone should be able to experience. As a staff, I got to grow and challenged to go outside of my box. With those challenges, I then challenged all of the kids that I was lucky to have and they tremendous growth in them for just under a week was amazing. Give to Happy Hollow to see the change you want to see in the inner city kids.

Great organization that help so many children every year experience the outdoors that wouldn't normally get to do so.

I love the friendly and familiar faces. My daughter goes during Asthma week. And she loves it she gets to do everything that a normal child without Asthma does. I love the doctors and staff is on hand cuz I remember my child every year

Happy Hollow is a great way for kids who must deal with the realities of an under-privileged situation to spend time in a natural setting and do the things kids are supposed to do - play, explore, dream. The commitment from the volunteers in this organization is truly outstanding and their desire to help the children is second to none. I am very proud to be associated with this wonderful group.

Both my children went to Happy Hollow Camp. Recently my daughter has gone the last 3 years and has enjoyed it each time. She is shy. She was able to make friends their and enjoy nature. Each year she was always eager to return.

There aren't any real words to explain how helpful this camp is. There are so many positive adjectives to describe how much I love this organization!

Happy Hollow, changes the lives of our youth who may not otherwise have experienced the beauty of nature, the teachings of teamwork, and the building of dreams...

I worked as a camp counselor at Happy Hollow, and was able to see first hand the transformation of the campers from the moment they stepped off the bus to the moment they headed back to Indianapolis after a week at camp. They loved it and it was great to be able to be part of this change in their lives!

Happy Hollow serves disadvantaged children. The children may be financially disadvantaged or physically disadvantaged. Happy Hollow gives these children hope. A big part of life is having something special that you can look forward to. The notes the children write say it all. They have the time of their life and learn to trust that their lives can be better.

My daughter attented Happy Hollow the past summer & she can't wait to go back next Summer. I was very impressed to her reaction. Although last year may have been her last year according to her age but I will definitely enroll her in Happy Hollow again and keep my fingers crossed. She may even be interested in becoming a Counselor.
Great Camp!

Happy hollow is one if the best non-profit organizations I've ever had the privilege to work for and with. This camp changes the lives of every person and child that come in contact with this organization. Every person involved is so kind and loving. On a professional level, this organization is so entirely detail oriented and organized. Absolutely nothing is left to chance. It's been my honor to be a supporter of this organization since 2002, and I will continue to be a supporter for years to come.

My son attended Happy Hollow for the first time this summer & he loved it!! He had a great time, he's already asking about next year. We would have never been able to afford a camp like this for him and I'm so grateful opportunities like this exist for families in need. Great experience!

I worked at the camp in 1994, and I still consider it one of the best summers of my life. The work done here is incrediblem the children are exposed to the beauty of nature and the unconditional love and care of all the volunteers. My family are still very close to the people there and we support them 100%

Does a fantastic job helping chidren of low income families! Staff is excellent, facility great

My Granddaughter stayed here for the first time this past summer, she had so much fun and the first thing she said after she got off the bus was "Can I please go next year" and yes she will be returning!!!
Thank you for making this place available for the children.

Cheryl Taylor

Love this place! Great outdoor fun with amazing staff! I hope it is around for a long time! They provide a fun and safe experience for children that may never get to be in the outdoors much due to their living conditions. At Happy Hollow they get to go mountain biking, ride a horse, play basketball, play tennis, go fishing, swim in a lake, go hiking, go on campouts, experience the high ropes/low ropes course along with the zipline, go canoeing and just be a kid without the pressures of being in a bad neighborhood etc. This camp gets in your blood....once you go you want to keep going back! The staff is great and love what they do!

I have volunteered at Happy Hollow Camp since 1988. This is a camp for kids that are from a socioeconomically challenged family or have a certain type of need(foster family, kids with asthma, ....). At this camp, these kids get to experience the great outdoors, see animals that they have only seen in a book, learn life skills and are able to do many things that they have never even heard of. They learn that there are all sorts of challenges that they can overcome and that they can do many things they never would have dreamed of. Many of these kids come back each summer, and it is so rewarding to see how they have matured in their decision making. It is especially rewarding when these children see the importance of camp and end up coming back at camp counselors when they are old enough. It is so special to see these you men and women grow up and pass on these opportunities to others. We had one girl that came to all 8 years of asthma camp that she was eligible, came back as a counselor in training, counselor, and then returned when she finished college and was a respiratory therapist. We have also had a young man that came many years to asthma camp, returned as a counselor in training, became a counselor, and now is working his way through college. He has turned into a fine young man and has been a great counselor and role model to the youth that are coming through camp.

My son has been to Happy Hollow Camp 3 times. They have provided him with an incredible experience each time. He comes home full of stories and memories that will last a lifetime ! They have camp counselors who are interns that come from all over the world. This adds to the experience for the camper, and many times they come back from year to year.
The application process is fairly smooth. The check in an out procedure has been perfected. Last and most importantly I trust them to take care of him while he is away.

There is a very dedicated voluntary group of business leaders as well as young corporate leaders who go to great lengths to sponsor numerous annual fundraising events for this worthy cause. The camp is a well run organization.

I have 2 children who have been going to Happy Hollow Childrens Camp for over 10 years. My son started when he was 7 with Asthma camp. He hasnt missed a year since. He is now a CIT- Councelor in Training. He LOVES the staff and the staff has treated him like family. Through the years my children have had the opportunity to met Tony Stewart and they have actually joined him in a commercial for some of his charity events. My son is turning 17 this year and he is hoping to become a Councelor. As single mother of 2, it is hard to find activites in the summer for the kids to do that wont break the bank and Happy Hollow has always done everything it can to make sure that my children are able to continue to comeback every year. They have been a blessing to my children!! I highly recommend this organization/camp for any child.

Happy Hollow is a great organization. It has a beautiful site in Brown County where children from the City who couldn't otherwise afford a camping experience can see what rural America is like. This also includes sessions which are adapted to serve the needs of children with medical conditions who couldn't go to camp without the help of medical professionals.

Happy Hollow was the high point of the year for me as an inner-city youth and oldest child of a single working mother. Happy Hollow helped me realize how much opportunity was available to me as a youth and that we could positively change the course of our lives into adulthood.

My experiences with Frank, Tom, Ann, Julie, Alfonso, Dimitri, Davie, Susie, Bernie and many others was invaluable to me as a camper. Besides the unmeasurable amount of fun we had I mostly remember choking back tears when we had to leave at the end of the week!

The camp counselors of America program brought foreign counselors into the camp, which opened my eyes to other cultures around the world. I attended camp as a camper for four-years, counselor in-training for a year and at then became a counselor for four years. My experiences throughout with all of the U.S. and foreign counselors of Happy Hollow truly changed my life for the better.

I'm now a Major in the U.S. Army and have been serving for 19-years. My love for other cultures, which I found at Happy Hollow, and service in the Army has blessed me to be able to travel to more than 11 countries around the world. I directly attribute what success I have to God, my family, and Happy Hollow Children's Camp!

Happy Hollow camp has been a blessing for my family. Before we found out about the camp
our three kids had never been camping due to time and money. All three of our kids have asthma
and our pediatrion suggested that they attend the asthma camp and that is how we began taking
them there. For three years our kids have gladly attended the camp. With the help of the staff our
kids have learned how to manage their asthma and they have been able to do activities there that
they wouldn't normally be able to do. The camp also teaches them new levels of independence we've
never seen in them before. My family and I are so greatful for camp Happy Hollow. Thank you for
taking time to read this.

In the 60s a young man came around my low income, multi-racial neighborhood going from door to door and talking about this camp called, Happy Hollow. We had never heard of the camp and my mother was not too sure this would be a place to send an ethnic minority child off for a week. But with seven other children at home, she decided that it would be a good experience for me and my sister. Off we went to Brown County and my life was wonderfully changed from that point onward. I really believed that Happy Hollow Children's Camp saved my life. I learned so many wonderful things besides archery, swimming, camping. I learned that there are people that come in all colors who want to make a difference and have love and kindness to share regardless of your race, social background or family or origin. Now over 40 years later, I still love Happy Hollow Children's Camp and always have a warm feeling inside when I hear the name!

I have 2 boys that love to go to Happy Hollow Camp every year. They always come home with awards, and excitement of telling me all the fun things they did and learned. It is so nice to have a great place for my boys to go in the summer, on our tight budget. Thanks to everyone who makes it possible for Happy Hollow childrens camp, be affordable for the less fortunate children!

Happy Hollow Camp is a legacy to the community and my family. My Mother, myself and my daughter have all attended Happy Hollow. Children are able to leave inner city life for an opportunity to enjoy nature, friendship and character training. My child is eager to go every summer and wishes to stay longer. Happy Hollow is a blessing.

My daughter was very happy with her week at Happy Hollow Children's Camp last summer. She said she wants to go back next year, which is a strong recommendation I would say. I was happy with how it was run and the people from the staff that I encountered and interacted with were very nice.

My mother sent my brother to this camp 25 years ago. He still smiles when he talks about his experience. I sent my 8 year daughter in July 2013. She loved the 3 day overnight experience. She is already trying to persuade me to let her stay for 5 days in 2014. The camp was very affordable and I know that is because of donations. So thanks to all the folks that want lower income children to have memorable childhood experiences. We are very grateful. TaShana Robinson and Christina Wells, Indianapolis, IN

Through our company, I had the opportunity to help with volunteer activities and contributions to Happy Hollow as well as participate in a visit to the camp. The visit to the camp was such a great experience. The camp counselors are energetic and engaging which was highly demonstrated through impromptu activities they conducted during a rainstorm. They connect with the campers and keep them entertained throughout. They also ensure the campers mind their manners as was demonstrated during dinner that evening. The campers receive an awesome experience attending this camp with its many areas of focus. I was also impressed that some of the camp counselors are from other countries. This is a valuable benefit too as the campers get to meet individuals from other countries and learn about their backgrounds and culture. Great group of people and great opportunity for the kids they support.

My 8 yr old daughter absolutely LOVED her first experience camping this past summer!!! As a single mother and a full time student my time and funds are quite limited. I was so happy that I could afford to send my daughter on the "adventure" of a lifetime for her. Since it was her first time away from home for that length of time I was very nervous about letting her go. The staff was awesome about easing my fears and answering every single question I could possibly come up with. She will definitely be returning next summer. As a child my family took me camping often and I really felt bad that I hadn't been able to give that experience to her..this camp is a blessing.

I think Happy Hollow does a really good job of working with some of the most at-need youth. They are trying not only to make sure those kids get the camp experience, but also that they have a great experience.

My Oldest needed a camp environment that allowed her to interact with kids from everywhere and had some of the same family and financial issues as she has, something that she was not getting from school. She is on the surface very "Wednesday Adams" but with a little patience one can find the sweet, caring, friendly and fun loving young lady she really is. She left scared of all the "happy" faces and cheery singing, but came back with a reward for her vocals and lots of bounce in her descriptions and even a few new friends. Happy Hollow Children's Camp did all that and more in just 1 week. I will likely be sending her back next year. She may even apply to work for the camp when she becomes old enough.

My children loved Camp Happy Hollow! They can't wait to return next year. This past year was their first year going to camp, I was a little nervous, not knowing what to expect. But they came back full of energy and asking to return to another summer session that year. The staff was very friendly and check in was well organized. I will be sending them back next year for 2 sessions if space is available! Camp Happy Hollow ROCKS!!!

My kids ages 15, 11, and 8 loved happy hollow. They attend a session this summer (2013) and hopefully attend 2014 summer. The price was pefect for me I'm currently going through treatment for breast cancer so the price and time worked well wi th my budget and schedule.

My children and I had been having a rough year with their father being a nd having to move around a lot. The staff at Happy Hollow made my kids feel welcome and excited about going to camp and facing new changes and challenges. I would recommend them to my friends and co-workers.

It was hard for me to make a selection under "your role" as Happy Hollow has been and continues to be a huge part of my life. I began my relationship with Happy Hollow as a camper at the age of 8 years old. I fell in love with the beautiful scenery, the activities, but most of all the staff. I continued to attend as a camper until I was finally able to become a counselor in training. After two years I became staff. I loved every minute of my time at that camp, and my fondest memories of my childhood took place on those grounds. Now life has come full circle, my 4 children have all attended the camp, and my oldest followed my same path.. Camper, CIT.. and finally staff. I can not imagine my life, nor theirs without such a wonderful environment and amazing people. I feel blessed just to have been able to have Happy Hollow as part of my life, and I hope it continues for years to come.

The camp staff, volunteers and board members are truely caring and want to help as many children as possible. They live through the mission of the camp. The camp itself is beautiful and well maintained. The camp means so much to so many children. My time as a board member was short, due to my location change, but Happy Hollow will always have a special place in my heart, and I will continue to support the camp and its mission from miles away.

What a great organization who's interest is to invest in the youth of Central Indiana through the expericence of a natural environment and peer networking. Camp is similar to what we (adults) look forward to an adventurous get-a-way from our daily whirlwind. I have been priviledge to serve on the board of directors for over two years. I can attest ot the dedication of the staff, volunteers and board members. This is an exploratory avenue for children to fully understand and appreciate the beauty of the great outdoors.

I have been a board member for Happy Hollow for the past three years. The board members are sincerely dedicated to Happy Hollow. This is a working board which means that the board members are very involved and give of their time and talent. The executive/administrative staff is exceptional and is also very dedicated. They all have "day jobs", but it is not unusual for them to be cooking in the kitchen or washing dishes when needed. They want the camp experience to be wonderful.
I have heard some of the campers speak before. When you hear how the camp has touched them, you know how important this experience is for these kids. Please participate or support.

Happy Hollow Camp operates a children's camp in Brown County Indiana. The main group served by the camp are inner city kids. Many of these kids have never experienced a camp environment, or really the rurual outdoors. Some have never really seen bright stars. Even though the camp is just a week long, it can be a life-changing event for these kids. They learn an appreciation of nature and the outdoors, self-discipline, and how to work in groups among other many valuable life skills camp teaches.

I have been a board member since 2011 and I feel blessed that I get to be a part of these kids lives in some way. Happy Hollow Children's Camp is something you have to see to believe. It's not only beautiful, well kept, up-to-date and safe, it's a kids dream!

Happy Hollow gives underprivileged youth a chance to experience something a lot of us take for granted - fresh air, outdoor sports and making friends for a lifetime. Most of the campers come from the inner-city and do not get to experience those and Happy Hollow Camp makes that possible.

I had the pleasure of volunteering at a local fundraiser for Happy Hallow Childrens Camp. It never feels like work when it's for a great cause. The camp provides such a great service to the community, giving these kids the opportunity to have a fun and educational experience they wouldn't be able to have otherwise. It's really a wonderful program for the everybody involved.

I volunteered this past summer session to help the campers get picked up and checked out after spending 5 days down at Happy Hollow's Camp. The smiles on these kids faces were priceless and it was apparent that the staff, activities at camp, the overall environment, and culture at Happy Hollow must be just wonderful! I look forward to visiting the actual camp site one day when camp is in session.

I was humbled by witnessing the gratitude and extreme passion that all of the staff at Happy Hollow put into this program from the top down. The leadership team displays all the attributes that you would want to see in providing our youth with a stable & happy outcome. They are responsible, trustworthy, knowledgeable, compassionate, and are in complete control to handle any situation that arises. I experienced Happy Hollow's leaders not only take control of a wide range of activities but also collaborate with camp counselors and volunteers alike by forming huddles and making sure that everybody was on board to provide the best camping experience possible for the kids.
Upon seeing hundreds of campers return with an EAR TO EAR GRIN, and knowing the beauty that this camp in the hills of southern Indiana beholds, I am confident that this is one of the best educational and life altering programs a child can have and also so deserving. Thank you to all of HAPPY HOLLOW’s Team for all that you do! My family looks forward to many more volunteer opportunities and a chance to someday send our son there for an Amazing Life Experience!