RAD Camp, a Yardi-supported nonprofit organization established in 2014 in Irvine, California, is a testament to the power of community support. Through programs and overnight summer camps, it helps adults and children rise above their developmental disabilities. These camps offer round-the-clock care and encourage independence, growth, and most importantly, fun!
“Our nonprofit hosts the largest and most affordable overnight summer camps for individuals with developmental disabilities in California,” said Meghan Clem, co-founder of RAD Camp.
RAD Camp owes its success to the over 700 volunteers who support this predominantly volunteer-run nonprofit. Most of its counselors are between the ages of 16 and 25 and play a crucial role in providing a much-deserved break for caregivers. Their dedication and commitment ensure that RAD Camp is an option for consecutive respite nights in a calendar year.
“We believe that by offering young people this life-changing experience, we contribute to creating compassionate and capable young community members,” said Clem.
Funding from Yardi goes towards the general operation of RAD Camp. The contribution helps cover access to its 24-hour on-site medical care, provides campers with three meals a day plus snacks, special diet accommodations, RAD Swag (e.g., themed T-shirts, water bottles, backpacks), daily programs and activities, nightly team-building exercises, housing and security.
Though the cost per camper is high, RAD does its best to provide sponsorships and waive the registration fee. For those with financial constraints, RAD covers the total amount. “We could not be more thankful for the support received from Yardi. Any donation amounts are appreciated as we continue to spread the gift of RAD,” expressed Clem.
Numbers don’t lie
Regarding retention rates for RAD Camp, recent statistics show that 86% of volunteers return, and 50% have volunteered for five years or more. In addition, 22% of volunteers select careers or college majors to serve people with special needs. This year, RAD Camp celebrated its 10th anniversary with “The RADDEST Decades” and offered two programs, RAD Camp (ages 22+) and RAD Jr. (ages five to 21). RAD Camp welcomed back 98 junior campers and 128 RAD campers for the summer camps — its largest camp to date.
Recognized by the Octane Non-Profit Accelerator
RAD was recently nominated and selected by the award-winning Octane Non-Profit Accelerator program, which analyzes non-profits’ impact, sustainability and fundraising strategy.
The Octane Accelerator program is supported by global executives from Edwards Life Sciences, Johnson and Johnson Med Tech, First Foundation Bank and more. RAD was given an extensive evaluation based on its current infrastructure, financial model, how it optimizes resources and other factors.
“We are proud to say that we scored in the top percentile against all other non-profits that have completed the program, including scoring 100% in Performance, Executive Competency, Business Model, Sustainable Competitive Advantage, Clarity of Mission, Prospects for Financial Stability and Program Differentiation,” explained Clem.
Volunteer opportunities
Those interested in becoming a volunteer at RAD Camp, either as a summer camp counselor or a shift as a kitchen angel or nurse, please sign up for its newsletter for more information.
Visit www.yardi.org for more about our philanthropic reach.
