After everyone climbed onto the back of the tractor-pulled wagon, it launched into motion exposing the campers to the beautiful views of the Easter Seals Camp Horizon out in Bragg Creek.

Roughly 50 campers were taking part in a four-day Christmas camp for adults with disabilities Dec. 23-26.

For more than 28 years campers have been sharing the gift of giving and friendship with each other. Activities range from baking, karaoke, crafts, bonfires, and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus on Christmas morning.

“We have campers that have been coming out for 15, 20 years,” said Claire Bodkin, director of programs. “Even if they have family in the area, they want to come out here. They have a blast.”

Camp Horizon provides a place for kids or adults with disabilities who don’t get a chance to attend regular camp. This Christmas camp was possible because of over 60 volunteers.

Many of the volunteers were from Katimavik — a program for youth 17 to 21 years of age who spend nine months helping community projects.

Bodkin said this is a great experience for the Katimavik kids because many have never worked with adults with disabilities before.

Bob Jackson, a volunteer of the Easter Seals Camp Horizon Christmas Camp for adults with disabilities, climbs into the tractor to pull around Christmas campers Dec. 24. Photo by Rachel Maclean

Bodkin said it is one of her favourite camps because it really shows the true meaning of Christmas.

“Christmas is all about being with community. . . It’s about spending time together instead of just buying stuff.”

Bodkin said by far the highlight of the camp is when Santa and Mrs. Claus come out to visit with the campers.

It’s what keeps camper Jean Ross coming back each year.

“If it wasn’t for this camp we wouldn’t have any fun at Christmas,” she said.

“What I like most is they accept people for who you are,” she said. “They don’t look at you like you’re some kind of freak.”

The camp runs programs all year, with  12 weeks dedicated to kids with physical or mental disabilities, including autism, transplant recipients and burn victims.

The camp also offers three weeks for adult campers with disabilities.

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