Camp Discovery
Refer a Camper
Camp Discovery can be a life-changing experience for children with moderate or severe skin conditions, but kids can only attend Camp Discovery if they are referred by their dermatologist. Consider giving your patients the opportunity to spend a week at Camp. It will only take a few minutes of your time, but will give your patients memories that will last for the rest of their lives.
Download the camper referral form today to begin the process of referring a patient to Camp Discovery. For more information, contact the AAD at (847) 240-1737 or email jmueller@aad.org.
Frequently asked questions about the referral process
Who is eligible to attend camp?
Any patient between the age of 8 – 16 with a moderate or severe skin condition is eligible. There is no condition “not serious enough” to prevent eligibility.
Where can I find the referral form?
Download it now! (PDF)
How long do I have to refer my patients?
The application deadline is May 17, 2024. Referrals received after the deadline may be considered for the same year, time permitting. Otherwise, they will be considered for the following year.
Where do I send completed referral forms?
Completed forms can be sent via fax to (847) 240-8645 or via email to jmueller@aad.org.
What happens once the referral form is submitted?
A member of AAD staff will contact the family to answer questions, explain the process, and begin working to get the child to Camp.
Does every referred child get accepted?
This depends on the volume of referrals, but currently, we do not expect to reach referral capacity for 2024.
Who should parents contact with questions?
Parents can email jmueller@aad.org or call (847) 240-1737. They can also learn more about Camp on our webpage for potential campers.
Is there a cost involved in referring my patients to Camp Discovery?
No, there is no cost to you or to the families. Camp Discovery is free to all families, even including airfare in many instances.
What is Camp like for the kids who attend?
Watch the video below and find out!
AAD Camp Discovery
For one week out of the year, kids with chronic skin conditions from across the United States and around the world will come to Camp Discovery to experience an adventure filled with fun, friendship, and personal growth. Everyone, regardless of their skin condition, can experience activities such as fishing, swimming, archery, horseback riding, nature trails, and just plain fun!
2024 Camp Discovery dates
Crosslake, Minnesota: July 1-6 (ages 13-16)
Crosslake, Minnesota: July 8-13 (ages 8-13)
Mt. Washington, Massachusetts: July 28-August 2 (ages 8-16)
Burton, Texas: August 4-9 (ages 8-16)
Millville, Pennsylvania: August 10-16 (ages 8-16)
Volunteer at Camp
The success of the AAD’s Camp Discovery depends on dedicated medical staff and counselors who volunteer their time to ensure that the campers are safe, their medical needs are attended to, and that they have fun!
Volunteers can select the week that is most convenient for them.
The Academy will cover the cost of airfare for those that need to fly.
Each location accepts a number of medical staff.
All volunteers are expected to volunteer for the entire camp week, unless previously arranged.
The week will be very high energy, with little down-time. Be prepared to work very long hours. You will be exhausted by the end of the week.
For more information, call the AAD at (847) 240-1737 or email jmueller@aad.org.
Frequently asked questions for volunteers
How do I apply to volunteer?
Applications are available beginning in mid-January of each year and can be completed directly online. Three references and one letter of recommendation are also required. The application deadline is April 2. Apply for a Camp Discovery volunteer position.
Do I need experience working with children?
Experience is helpful, but is not mandatory. Applications are reviewed carefully, and selection is based on experience with children as well as other general experiences — such as school and work, expectations for the volunteer positions, reasons why you chose to apply, etc. You need to be comfortable and enthusiastic about entertaining and supervising children.
Do I need to volunteer for the entire week?
Yes. Volunteering for only part of the week is challenging, as it disrupts the continuity of the cabin group as well as presents an issue regarding adequate supervision.
