West Chester, Pa (April 5, 2023) – The Bournelyf Special Camp, which provides outdoor recreational opportunities to people with disabilities, was awarded $70,000 in state funding for a new nurses’ station thanks to the work of state Senators Carolyn Comitta and John Kane.
The camp, a local non-profit organization, acquired and is in the process of renovating an existing building to house its administrative offices and nurses’ station.
“The entire Bournelyf Team is delighted to receive the official notice that the camp was awarded a $70,000 Community & Economic Assistance Grant,” said Richard Curth, Director of Development & Properties at Bournelyf Special Camp. “The grant will be used to create a wheelchair-accessible entrance to the new nurses’ station. The project includes a sidewalk, porch, and ground level entranceway leading into the soon-to-be newly renovated nurses’ station and administrative offices.”
The entire project includes developing a new accessible bathroom, widening doorways and hallway to ensure wheelchair access, installing a zoned HVAC system, tree trimming and removal, and painting. 
“The Bournelyf Special Camp is a special place where people with disabilities can get outside, get physical, build confidence, develop new skills, and take in all nature has to offer,” Comitta said. “I thank all the staff, supporters, and volunteers for their work and I appreciate Senator Kane working with us to secure this funding. I hope these resources help the camp expand and grow to provide recreational opportunities to even more campers.”
“Bournelyf has always provided a welcoming and inclusive environment for campers, their families, and our Chester County community,” said Senator Kane. “As the only camp of its kind in Chester County, it is crucial for Bournelyf to provide the best and safest experience possible for its campers.” Senator Kane added, “I was delighted to work with Senator Comitta and the Bournelyf team on this essential project to improve the camp’s facilities. This funding will allow Bournelyf to continue delivering a great experience for both campers and staff.”
The Bournelyf Special Camp operates as a summer day camp in West Chester with programs involving outdoor recreational activities with a focus on lifetime wellness, and community outreach, in conjunction with developing communication and social skills for individuals with intellectual, and developmental disabilities age 8 and up.
With three different summer day camp programs, including an alumni program that ensures that campers never age out, the Bournelyf Special Camp is the only summer day camp of its kind in Chester County. The camp, founded in 1980, features twenty acres of fields, a handicapped-accessible, Olympic-sized swimming pool, a nearby pond and wooded area, and indoor recreational space.