Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society Announces 16th Annual Camp Buddy in Effingham County, June 9-13, 2025
(EFFINGHAM COUNTY, GA) – The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) is excited to host its 16th annual Camp Buddy summer camp for Effingham County, taking place June 9-13 at Blandford Elementary School, along with various locations in Rincon for hands-on community learning experiences.
Camp Buddy Effingham will run from June 9-13 for elementary and middle school-aged campers, while older participants will enjoy a weekend camp from June 6-8, with additional involvement in some weekday activities.
Designed specifically for children with Down syndrome, Camp Buddy helps participants maintain their academic and developmental progress while preparing for the new school year. The program, developed by experienced special education teachers and therapists, offers an engaging and supportive environment.
Elementary school campers will attend morning sessions at Blandford Elementary, where they will receive personalized occupational, physical, and speech therapy. Activities include interactive games, arts and crafts, and educational exercises designed to enhance learning in a fun setting. The younger group will meet at Blandford Elementary from Monday through Thursday.
Middle school participants will also receive therapies while engaging in community service projects such as assembling bags for Backpack Buddies and creating teacher appreciation gifts. These projects help develop their academic and life skills in a meaningful way.
This year, older campers will kick off their experience with an overnight stay starting June 6, focusing on independent living skills and community service initiatives. High school campers will take part in afternoon sessions featuring activities such as volunteering at local food and clothing pantries and learning essential budgeting and meal-planning skills through grocery shopping trips. They will also gain hands-on experience preparing meals and strengthening occupational skills. The overnight stay provides an immersive opportunity to foster independence. Additionally, this group will participate in various physical activities throughout the community.
“Camp Buddy continues to be a place where children and young adults with Down syndrome can thrive, learn, and grow in a fun and supportive environment. Through interactive therapy, hands-on activities, and meaningful community engagement, we aim to build confidence and independence while making lasting memories,” said Molly Marchese, Camp Buddy director.
Throughout the camp, therapy sessions are seamlessly woven into engaging activities, promoting physical well-being, cognitive development, and community involvement.
To register for Effingham County Camp Buddy, contact Molly Marchese at mollymarchese6107@gmail.comor 912-213-9127.
Camp Buddy is organized and funded by the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society, made possible through the generosity of the community, friends, and families of LDSS, as well as fundraising events such as the Buddy Walk and Night of Champions. For more details about LDSS, visit www.ldssga.org.
ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) supports people with Down syndrome and their families through local leadership, support, outreach, education and advocacy. Please check for Family Support meeting dates and all other LDSS activities in their live calendar at LDSSGA.org. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society.
Event Contact:
Lindsey Barron, Administrative Assistant
Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society
lbarron@ldssga.org
229-457-7974
Contact
John and Candy Bogardus (President)
Cell: 912-663-8573
Fax: 912-728-5247
ldssgabuddywalk@gmail.com
Media Contact
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations, Inc.
912-844-9990
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com