‘Unique and growing experience’: Journey Beyond Sight Camp helps visually impaired kids play sports

UNO camp uses adaptive activities like beep kickball and archery to create a summer experience focused on independence and inclusion

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Journey Beyond Sight Camp helps visually impaired kids play sports

UNO camp uses adaptive activities like beep kickball and archery to create a summer experience focused on independence and inclusion

OMAHA, Neb. —

The sounds of cheering teammates, beeping balls and arrows hitting targets filled the air at the University of Nebraska Omaha this week as campers took part in Journey Beyond Sight Camp.

The overnight camp, hosted through a partnership involving Outlook Nebraska and UNO’s School of Health and Kinesiology, gives kids ages 8 to 18 who are blind or visually impaired the chance to experience a traditional summer camp, with activities adapted to meet their needs.

Thursday, campers participated in activities including beep kickball and archery, with modifications designed to help everyone take part. Beep kickball puts a twist on baseball, using sound cues to help players hit, run and compete independently. Camp counselors also joined in by wearing blindfolds, creating an experience where everyone relied on the same sounds and skills.

Camp leaders say the goal goes beyond sports. For many campers, it is their first time spending several days away from home and learning to become more independent.

Organizers say the confidence built during the week can continue long after camp ends, giving campers new skills and the belief that they can take on challenges in everyday life.

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