The West Virginia Elks Major Project, Inc. is a non-profit Corporation and was established in 1988 to promote the charitable, educational and benevolent activities of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks and the West Virginia Elks Association. It was determined that the West Virginia Elks major project would organize and sponsor camps for individuals who are mentally and/or physically challenged.
Individuals who attend our camps normally do not have the opportunity to participate in this type of experience. The special attention we provide our campers as they participate in normal activities give them new exposures that sometimes cannot be experienced at home or school. When surveyed, parents overwhlemingly stated that their child came home stronger mentally and physically, and more enhanced socially.
The West Virginia Major Project was later expanded to provide one-time grants for special education teachers to expand their skills in this field.
Our camps are held in July each year back to back at the Mercer County 4-H camp located in Princeton, WV. This facility provides a beautiful backdrop for everyone to enjoy while also being close to medical facilities and hospitals that are minutes away.
Our children’s camps are always FREE OF CHARGE! Campers attend at no cost to their parents or guardians regardless of their ability to pay.
Starting on Sunday evening, we provide a variety of activities for all campers, including:
Taffy Robertson has been involved with the camp for over 25 years. She has a bachelor’s degree in education and psychology, and a masters in special education. She has been teaching over 16 years in all ranges of disabilities along with being a gifted special needs dance class teacher. She has been the best addition to our camp and we are proud of all her dedication to us and the campers.
As our Camp Director, each year she designs and schedules camp activities around a theme. In past years, campers have enjoyed the circus, became world travelers, and many other fun and educational experiences, all allowing our campers to have fun while learning about the world around them, and most importantly, learning about themselves. Campers always look forward to evening entertainment where semi-professional wrestlers, Miss West Virginia and Santa Claus may stop for a visit.
The West Virginia Elks Association State Major Project is an annual camp for those ages 8 to 50 with special needs. We support a mission to act as a catalyst of encouragement, education, and activity for young people ages 8 to 50, who have physical or mental challenges while providing an atmosphere that stimulates emotional, social, and educational growth. The 2024 camp dates will be announced soon.
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