Where Care Meets Community: YMCA Camp Independence Hosts Lurie Children's Spina Bifida Center Celebration

On June 13, 2026, YMCA Camp Independence was honored to welcome more than 450 individuals for the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Lurie Children's Spina Bifida Center. 

The event brought together patients, families, physicians, nurses, therapists, volunteers, and community partners to celebrate five decades of life-changing care and unwavering support for individuals living with spina bifida, a birth condition that can impact movement, strength, and other parts of daily life. The support individuals and families receive through the Lurie Children's Spina Bifida Center extends far beyond clinic walls and continues at Camp Independence where youth, teens, and adults who have spina bifida can experience a traditional overnight camp setting. 

"Hosting the 50th Anniversary Celebration was a tremendous honor for Camp Independence," said Jason Kuffel, Camp Independence Executive Director. "For five decades, the Lurie Children's Spina Bifida Center has provided exceptional care, advocacy, and support to thousands of families including those of our campers.” 

Camp Independence and Lurie Children's Spina Bifida Center have worked together to ensure that individuals living with spina bifida have access to meaningful experiences such as swimming, adaptive recreation, outdoor adventures, leadership development, campfires, and countless opportunities to build lifelong friendships. Together, both organizations share a commitment to help every participant reach their fullest potential and rise above any challenges. 

Morgan Holle, Camp Independence Overnight Programs Director, added that the camp is “proud to partner with an organization that shares our belief that everyone deserves opportunities to build confidence, form meaningful relationships, and experience the independence that helps them thrive.” 

What makes Camp Independence special is not simply the activities, but the community. Campers are surrounded by peers who understand their experiences, staff who celebrate their abilities, and a support network that encourages them to challenge themselves and discover new possibilities. 

As Camp Independence looks toward the future, we remain deeply grateful for the shared mission that has connected our organizations for so many years. We look forward to continuing this important work for generations to come!