UBU Parents
At Camp UBU, we know that sending your child to camp is a big decision. We partner closely with families to ensure every camper feels safe, supported, and confident throughout their camp experience.
Camp UBU is intentionally designed for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing campers. Our program is led by Deaf and Hard of Hearing adults who understand firsthand the importance of communication access, belonging, and positive role models. Parents can feel confident knowing their child is in an environment where they are understood and celebrated for who they are.
What parents can expect at Camp UBU:
We also prioritize camper health and wellness. Our experienced kitchen staff provide nutritious meals, and we work closely with families to safely accommodate food allergies and dietary sensitivities. Hygiene, hydration, and rest are built into each day to help campers feel their best.
Camp UBU is more than a week away—it’s a place where confidence grows, friendships form, and campers return home feeling proud of who they are. We are grateful for the trust families place in us and are always available to answer questions or talk through concerns.
Camp UBU is intentionally designed for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing campers. Our program is led by Deaf and Hard of Hearing adults who understand firsthand the importance of communication access, belonging, and positive role models. Parents can feel confident knowing their child is in an environment where they are understood and celebrated for who they are.
What parents can expect at Camp UBU:
- A small staff-to-camper ratio at about (6:1) for close supervision and individualized attention
- Trained, caring staff with experience supporting Deaf and Hard of Hearing youth
- A registered nurse on site throughout camp
- Clear routines that balance activity, rest, and fun
- Strong communication access throughout the day
- Thoughtful support for homesickness and emotional needs
We also prioritize camper health and wellness. Our experienced kitchen staff provide nutritious meals, and we work closely with families to safely accommodate food allergies and dietary sensitivities. Hygiene, hydration, and rest are built into each day to help campers feel their best.
Camp UBU is more than a week away—it’s a place where confidence grows, friendships form, and campers return home feeling proud of who they are. We are grateful for the trust families place in us and are always available to answer questions or talk through concerns.
FAQ
What if my child does not know american sign language (ASL)?
That is ok! Many campers arrive with little or no ASL experience. Our trained staff support a variety of communication styles, and campers quickly discover they can communicate more than they think while connecting with Deaf and Hard of Hearing peers.
How can I stay connected to my camper while they are at camp?
Yes! On registration day, families will receive a camp email address for camper messages. Please include your camper’s name and cabin in the subject line. Emails are printed and delivered at breakfast and lunch. Keep messages short and sweet—no photos, please. Campers may write back, and we’ll share a photo of their letter or drawing. Please don’t worry if you don’t receive a reply—campers stay very busy and will have lots to share at pick-up!
How is camp UBU able to have
the cost at $300 per camper?
the cost at $300 per camper?
The true cost of attending Camp UBU is approximately $850 per camper. Through the support of our own Sertoma club, Sertoma Connections of the Great Plains, and our connection to the larger Sertoma organization, we are able to significantly reduce the cost for families.
Camp UBU covers the remaining cost through fundraising, donations, grants, and community partnerships, allowing families to pay $300. Families are not responsible for the remaining cost—our goal is to keep camp as accessible and affordable as possible for every camper.
Camp UBU covers the remaining cost through fundraising, donations, grants, and community partnerships, allowing families to pay $300. Families are not responsible for the remaining cost—our goal is to keep camp as accessible and affordable as possible for every camper.
How can families and
supporters help Camp UBU financially?
supporters help Camp UBU financially?
Families and supporters who are interested in helping Camp UBU are welcome to get involved in a variety of ways, including donations, fundraising efforts, sponsorships, sharing ideas and connections, or donating supplies for camp week.
We also welcome individuals who are interested in joining our Sertoma club, Sertoma Connections of the Great Plains, to support Camp UBU through behind-the-scenes work, fundraising, and community outreach. Every contribution—big or small helps keep Camp UBU accessible and thriving.
We also welcome individuals who are interested in joining our Sertoma club, Sertoma Connections of the Great Plains, to support Camp UBU through behind-the-scenes work, fundraising, and community outreach. Every contribution—big or small helps keep Camp UBU accessible and thriving.
Can my camper bring a phone, tablet, AirPods, or other personal devices?
To make the most of our short time together, Camp UBU does not allow personal electronics such as phones, tablets, or AirPods. Camp is focused on building relationships, being present, and enjoying all the fun activities we have planned. Please do not send these items with your camper. Our campers quickly learn how much fun it is not to have these items! 🙂
When a device is found, families will be notified and the item will be kept in a secure location until pick-up, when it will be returned to a parent or guardian. Thank you for understanding and supporting us.
When a device is found, families will be notified and the item will be kept in a secure location until pick-up, when it will be returned to a parent or guardian. Thank you for understanding and supporting us.
What happens on Registration Day?
Families are welcome to arrive between 3:00–5:00 PM on Sunday. Please do not arrive early, as staff are preparing for camper check-in. Please be on the lookout for Camp UBU signage as you arrive on site. During registration, we will check your camper in, review registration and health forms with our nurse, discuss any medications, show you your camper’s cabin, and help them get settled before goodbyes.
We know drop-off can come with big emotions. Our experienced staff have activities ready and will support campers as they transition into camp and get excited for the week ahead.
We know drop-off can come with big emotions. Our experienced staff have activities ready and will support campers as they transition into camp and get excited for the week ahead.
What happens on pick up day?
Campers will be ready for pick-up between 10:00–11:00 AM on Friday and will be fully packed when families arrive. We kindly ask that families arrive on time, as our host camp will be preparing the space for the next group.
Families must confirm in advance who will be picking up their camper. If someone other than a parent or guardian is picking up, a signed permission form is required.
On pick-up day, all adults must check in with Camp Director Emily, show a valid photo ID, and receive a name tag with the camper’s name. Staff will release campers only to adults with the correct name tag. If someone does not have a name tag, they will be directed back to Emily. Camper safety is always our top priority.
Also, you may notice two very common things at pick-up: camp exhaustion and even a little “camp-sickness.” Campers often miss their friends, routines, and connections once camp ends—and that’s a sign of a meaningful week! Expect tired campers with full hearts and lots of stories to share.
Families must confirm in advance who will be picking up their camper. If someone other than a parent or guardian is picking up, a signed permission form is required.
On pick-up day, all adults must check in with Camp Director Emily, show a valid photo ID, and receive a name tag with the camper’s name. Staff will release campers only to adults with the correct name tag. If someone does not have a name tag, they will be directed back to Emily. Camper safety is always our top priority.
Also, you may notice two very common things at pick-up: camp exhaustion and even a little “camp-sickness.” Campers often miss their friends, routines, and connections once camp ends—and that’s a sign of a meaningful week! Expect tired campers with full hearts and lots of stories to share.
Will we see photos of our campers during camp week?
Yes! We take lots of photos and videos throughout the week to help capture the magic of camp and share camp life in action. On registration day parents will receive a specific link to view photos, and we will strive to share them daily. We may also share a small selection on our social media. Our priority is always being fully present with campers.
A typical day at UBU
Morning.
7:30 AM - Rise and Shine!
8:00 AM - Breakfast @ Dining Hall
9:00 AM - Announcements
9:15 AM - Small Group Rotations
11:30 AM - Outdoor games
12:00 PM - Lunch @ Dining Hall
8:00 AM - Breakfast @ Dining Hall
9:00 AM - Announcements
9:15 AM - Small Group Rotations
11:30 AM - Outdoor games
12:00 PM - Lunch @ Dining Hall
Afternoon.
1:00 PM - Quiet Time @ Cabins
2:00 PM- Afternoon Activities, Camp Store, Snacks
4:30 PM - Clean up & Outdoor games
2:00 PM- Afternoon Activities, Camp Store, Snacks
4:30 PM - Clean up & Outdoor games
Evening.
5:00 PM - Dinner
6:00 PM - Evening Activities
7:30 PM - Campfire, Storytime, Charades
8:30PM - Get ready for bed
9:30PM - Lights Out!
6:00 PM - Evening Activities
7:30 PM - Campfire, Storytime, Charades
8:30PM - Get ready for bed
9:30PM - Lights Out!