Celebrating the Camp Independence Gala
Camp Independence Gala Raises More Than $280,000 in Record-Breaking Celebration
Camper stories and dedication of the Dr. David G. McLone Lodge highlight an evening of generosity, connection, and possibility
INGLESIDE, Ill.— YMCA Camp Independence, the Illinois Spina Bifida Association, and the Spina Bifida Center at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago are celebrating a record-breaking gala that raised more than $280,000. The total surpassed the previous fundraising record of approximately $250,000, with additional checks and online donations still being received.
The event, held on Saturday, Oct. 3, at Ridgemoor Country Club, filled every available seat with supporters united by a shared commitment to creating meaningful camp experiences for people with spina bifida.
The evening’s theme, “Moments That Matter,” came to life through remarks by Lurie Children's Spina Bifida Center Director Dr. Robin Bowman and heartfelt camper speeches.
"Their stories offer a powerful reminder that camp’s impact extends beyond a summer experience," said Dr. Bowman. "Friendships, accomplishments, and opportunities to practice independence shape how campers see themselves and what they believe is possible."
One of the evening’s most moving moments was the dedication and naming of the Camp Independence lodge in honor of Dr. David G. McLone, founder of the Spina Bifida Center at Lurie Children’s, whose vision and expertise launched the center and transformed countless lives. With his family gathered around the commemorative plaque, guests celebrated his lasting impact on the Spina Bifida community and the legacy that will continue through the campers who enter the lodge’s doors.
“Saturday evening gave us the opportunity to hear directly from our campers about the moments that have mattered in their lives,” said Jason Kuffel, executive director of YMCA Camp Duncan and Camp Independence.
“Seeing the McLone family gathered around the plaque, then watching this community respond with such generosity, was deeply moving. These gifts will help more campers build friendships, gain confidence, and discover what they can accomplish.”
The celebration also highlighted the partnership among YMCA Camp Independence, the Illinois Spina Bifida Association, and Lurie Children’s Spina Bifida Center. Together, these organizations connect camp experiences, community support, and healthcare expertise to support campers and their families.
"The Illinois Spina Bifida Association is proud to be in partnership with the YMCA of Metro Chicago in providing Camp Independence experiences to children, adults, and families living with spina bifida," said Illinois Spina Bifida Association executive director Matt Larsen. "Camp Independence is the most comprehensive program available to empower youth with Spina Bifida. It is the most in-demand program when we talk to families at Lurie Children's Chicago and other Spina Bifida clinics statewide."
Camp Independence offers youth, teens, and adults with Spina Bifida opportunities to enjoy traditional camp activities in an accessible, supportive environment. Donations help sustain programming, trained staff, adaptive equipment, accessible facilities, and financial assistance.
The organizers extend their gratitude to the Camp Independence Advisory Board, sponsors, donors, volunteers, staff, camper speakers, and everyone who participated in person or supported the evening from afar. Their dedication made this record-breaking celebration possible.
Support is still welcome. Those inspired by the gala’s message are invited to learn more about Camp Independence, its mission, and how to contribute to future “Moments That Matter.”
About YMCA Camp Independence
YMCA Camp Independence, located at Camp Duncan in Ingleside, Illinois, provides camp experiences for youth, teens, and adults living with spina bifida. Campers enjoy traditional camp activities in an accessible, supportive environment designed to meet their individual needs. Through adaptive programming and the guidance of trained staff, campers build friendships, gain confidence, and practice skills for greater independence. Camp Independence creates opportunities for campers to try new things, discover their abilities, and carry what they learn at camp into everyday life.
About Lurie Children’s Spina Bifida Center
Established in 1975, the Spina Bifida Center at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago has provided comprehensive, coordinated care for children and adolescents with spina bifida for more than five decades. The Center brings together specialists across neurosurgery, urology, orthopedic surgery, physical medicine and rehabilitation, psychology and other disciplines to provide integrated care tailored to each child and family from prenatal diagnosis through young adulthood. Today, the Center continues to advance the field through clinical care, research and collaboration, and is recognized as a Clinical Care Partner by the National Spina Bifida Association.
About Illinois Spina Bifida Association
The Illinois Spina Bifida Association works to improve the quality of life of children, adults, and families living with spina bifida. The Illinois Spina Bifida Association (ISBA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1969 by a group of dedicated parents. Our programs are designed to work in partnership with families, service providers, volunteers, researchers, and funders throughout the state and country. ISBA serves more than 1,000 people living with spina bifida throughout Illinois. ISBA’s programs are free for anyone living with spina bifida in Illinois. There are no membership requirements.