Hand Camp Colorado General Fund

Hand Camp Colorado organizes an annual camp designed for children with upper limb differences. Participants come together to play games, learn new skills, and create supportive relationships while connecting with others who share similar experiences. The camp also welcomes parents and siblings, offering dedicated sessions like facilitated parent discussions and break out meetings. Campers travel from across the state and region, and attendance is FREE for all participants.

Having an upper limb difference affects every part of a child’s life from daily self care, participation in sports, school work, and leisure activities. Children with chronic physical differences are known to have a higher risk of psychosocial issues when compared to children without physical differences. Participating in a hand camp has been shown to impact children with upper limb differences in meaningful ways, improving their daily function, and increasing confidence in peer relationships.

WHY DO WE EXIST?

• 1 in 1,900 children are born with a limb difference, some are 1:200,000 (rare)
• Families often face isolation, lack of resources, and limited peer support
• Provides a safe and inclusive space to develop resilience and self-esteem
• Camp strengthens bonds between shared experiences
• Camp provides a support network for parents going through similar challenges and concerns

OUR STORY

Hand Camp Colorado was established in 2022 by Dr. Jue Cao, drawing on the inspiration gained from his participation in a hand camp during his pediatric hand surgery fellowship at Texas Scottish Rite for Children. “I witnessed a life-changing moment when a young girl with symbrachydactyly taught another to tie her hair for the first time, bringing tears of joy. That moment showed me the unmatched power of peer support. Determined to create a haven for these children, I vowed to start a hand camp wherever life took me.”

OUR MISSION

To create a supportive and empowering environment where children with upper limb differences and their families can connect, share experiences, and build confidence. Hand Camp Colorado aims to foster resilience, celebrate differences, and promote a sense of belonging for all participants.

OUR WHY

Through the generosity of our donors and supporters, Hand Camp Colorado is 100% volunteer run and FREE for children and their families. Our vision is to create a community where children with upper limb differences are treated equally, feel confident, supported, and celebrated.

www.handcampcolorado.org

donate@handcampcolorado.org