History of Wisconsin Elks/Easter Seals Respite Camp

In 1991, Camp Wawbeek experimented with a “respite” session to assess need and interest in such a program. Two sessions filled almost overnight, clearly confirming the need. In fact, parents cite respite as the single most important factor that enables them to keep their children with disabilities at home.

Easter Seals turned to long-time camp supporters - the Wisconsin Elks. The Elks would come to play a major role in the future of Respite Camp. In late 1993, Easter Seals presented a proposal to the Wisconsin Elks Major Project Committee, and it was accepted. Easter Seals and the Elks were on their way to creating a very successful respite program that would benefit hundreds of families in Wisconsin.

Since then, the Wisconsin Elks have continued their commitment to respite:

1995: Provided funds for the Respite Cabin. The bedrooms, showers, and bathrooms were specifically designed for the one-to-one supervision needed for the program. The lounge provides space for campers to play and enjoy the beautifully wooded grounds.

1996: Bought a wheelchair-accessible van that is used to take campers to the pool and other programs and to pick up respite campers throughout the state for weekend sessions. The Elk districts and individual Elk Lodges are used as the pick-up/drop off points, giving each lodge the opportunity to be actively involved in the program.

1997: Provided funds for additions to Elk Lodge, the first major building funded by the Wisconsin Elks as part of Easter Seals Pioneer Camp back in 1976. The kitchen and dining hall areas were enlarged to meet the growing need.

1998: Funded accommodations for the Respite Coordinator and nursing staff.

2000: Elks build camp's multi-purpose building to provide an indoor recreation space.

2003: A wheelchair-accessible mini-bus is donated to help transport campers around camp and to pick up weekend campers at selected sites throughout Wisconsin.

2006: Elks Village opens. This facility has a large open program space, bedrooms for over forty people, and a storm shelter that is a safe haven during bad weather.

The Wisconsin Elks Association, through the Elks Major Projects Committee, is a rich example of how partnerships succeed. They helped make respite a reality.