Lesko Discovery Center Summer Camp
June 23 - August 8, 2025
Monday through Friday | 10:00am - 4:00pm
650 W International Airport Rd, Anchorage
What is Hope's Summer Camp?
Adventure. Inclusion. Friendship!
Hope’s Summer Camp provides a fun, educational, and inclusive experience for children and young adults (ages 9-20) with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. From June 23 – August 8, campers will enjoy seven weeks of engaging activities and exciting adventures that promote teamwork, social skills, and confidence—all in a supportive environment led by our trained staff.
Each day features trips and outtings throughout the Anchorage community, such as visits to parks, nature trails, and museums. Campers are encouraged to develop independence and make decisions, while receiving support from our staff to ensure a fun and safe experience. Our goal is for every camper to leave with a sense of accomplishment, confidence about their unique strengths, and memories that will last a lifetime!
Camp Fees
- $160 – $200 per week for campers receiving approved Medicaid services with Hope
- $1,008 – $1,455 per week (includes camp fees and hourly service costs) for campers not using waivered services
- Additional fees may apply per week based on activity
- Limited financial aid may be available for families in need
Who Can Join?
Our camp is open to children and young adults ages 9-20, and we welcome campers who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, and mental health challenges. Spaces are limited, so apply today and make summer 2025 one to remember. We look forward to welcoming you and your camper to Hope’s Lesko Discovery Center Summer Camp!
We hope to see you there!
Summer Camp 2025
Weekly Activities
WEEK 1: June 23 - June 27
Welcome to Summer! Campers will dive into the best of summer fun. This week is all about adventure, team-building, and making new friends as we kick off the season with exciting activities and outdoor exploration, including hiking, exploring waterfalls, visiting local parks, playing social games, tie-dyeing t-shirts, and more.
WEEK 2: June 30 - July 3
(Closed Friday, July 4th)
Get ready for an explosive week of exhilaration! We will celebrate the spirit of summer with patriotic fun, outdoor barbecues, handmade crafts, and water games at H2Oasis. Join us for a week of friendship and unforgettable summer memories.
WEEK 3: July 7 - July 11
Embark on an exciting journey of discovering creatures, wild animals, and magical adventures. Campers will see animals from all over this great state and beyond. We will visit the Flying Horse Equestrian Center, the Alaska Zoo, the Salmon Express, and more.
WEEK 4: July 14 - July 18
Summer is in full swing, and this week is the perfect way to soak up the season with a week packed full of adventure, laughter, and classic camp excitement, including a visit to the Wildlife Conservation Center, Anchorage/Trolley Tour, and Jewel Lake for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.
WEEK 5: July 21 - July 25
Spread your wings and explore the world from a whole new perspective. This week we will learn about the wonders of flight, nature, and adventure through activities inspired by birds and aviation. We will visit The Bird Treatment Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and Byron Glacier Trail.
WEEK 6: July 28 - August 1
Just like the vibrant fireweed that flourishes in summer, this week is all about growth, resilience, and embracing the great outdoors. This will be a nature-inspired, adventure-filled week of creativity and fun. We will visit The Anchorage Museum, the Alaska Botanical Gardens, and Arctic Valley.
WEEK 7: August 4 - August 8
During the final week of Camp, we will celebrate each camper's personality, culture, and uniqueness. We will visit the Musk Ox Farm and Alaska Native Heritage Center, and conclude Camp with a Hope Talent Show that all campers will have the opportunity to participate in!
Sponsor a Child to Attend Summer Camp
Would you consider making a donation to our Summer Camp? Your generous contribution will open the door for youth and young adults in our community to access educational experiences through our Summer Camp program. Every summer, our campers experience a journey of creativity, adventure, and discovery. From hands-on educational activities and outdoor exploration to artistic expression and team-building experiences, Camp is a place where young people grow, connect, and thrive.
But not every family can afford the cost of Camp. That’s where you come in.
By donating to our Summer Camp Scholarship Fund, you make it possible for children—regardless of financial circumstances—to attend Camp and build memories that last a lifetime. Your support provides access to a safe, enriching, and inspiring environment where every camper can learn, play, and belong.
Questions? Contact Hope's Community Engagement Center at 907-433-1700 or [email protected].
Join Our Camp Counselor Team!
Do you know someone who would make a great Camp counselor? We are looking for enthusiastic, caring, and energetic people to join our team to create an unforgettable summer experience for our campers. If you know someone who would be a great fit, encourage them to apply here, or send their name our way—we’d love to connect!
For more information or to recommend someone, contact Valarie Applin, Hiring Specialist, at 907-433-1730 or [email protected].
Apply to join our Summer Camp team
