FireFly Camps and Retreats
FireFly Camps and Retreats, while a new program for CLASS, has an incredible history of providing recreational activities for people with spina bifida and similar/related disabilities. Originally operated by the Spina Bifida Association of Western PA, the mission of the FireFly Camps and Retreats is to provide year-round opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and connection with others.
FireFly Summer Camps
FireFly Summer Camps provide a traditional camp experience for individuals with spina bifida and related disabilities. The program combines classic camp fun with a barrier-free atmosphere, creating opportunities to build friendships and enjoy activities many never thought possible.
FireFly Weekend Retreats
FireFly Weekend Retreats extend the FireFly Summer Camp Program throughout the year. These retreats give participants opportunities to reconnect with friends, strengthen lasting relationships, and enjoy time together in a fun, supportive setting. Groups are organized by age.
Paying for Camp
CLASS aims to make camp and weekend retreats accessible for all who are interested. We accept private pay or out-of-pocket payments, waiver funding, and ESY funding.
Camp Firefly offers financial assistance in the form of a campership. For more information on funding or to request a Campership application, please contact Haley Spanner at hspanner@classcommunity.org or 724.841.9280. (Please note: In order to be eligible to qualify for financial assistance, you must participate in at least one fundraiser.)
To make a camp payment, click here.
What to Bring
To have the best camp experience possible, we suggest you bring the following items. The one thing you can’t count on is the weather. We recommend bringing a variety of clothing for nice summer days and cool summer nights, as well as clothing that can get dirty. Please refrain from bringing expensive items to camp. CLASS or Camp Guyasuta are not responsible for any lost items.
To ensure you leave with the items you bring, please label all items. It is also helpful for you to make a list of the items (including item quantities) to help you and our counselors pack for the trip home.
Clothing
- Underwear
- Bras
- Socks
- Pajamas
- T-Shirts
- Long Sleeve T-Shirts
- Sweatshirt/Lightweight Jacket
- Raincoat/Poncho
- Shorts
- Long Pants
- Bathing Suit
- Nice outfit or themed outfit for a dance
- Sturdy Tennis Shoes
- Sandals/Flip Flops
Toiletries
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Soap or Bodywash
- Deodorant
- Bug Spray
- Sun Block
- Hair dryer
- Brush/Comb
- Lotion
- Glasses/Contact Lenses
- *All personal care items must be provided
Bedding and Towels
- Sleeping bag or 1-2 blankets
- Fitted twin sheet (2)
- Pillow and case
- Bath Towels
- Wash cloths
- Beach Towel
Other Items
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat or Baseball Cap
- Reusable Water Bottle
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| Downloadable Packing Check List | 1.28 MB |
Medication Policy
Medications must come in pre-dosed bags, medicine boxes, or syringes for liquid medications. You will need a med bag for each time you take medication. Please arrive to check in with them pre-dosed. We do not need to see the original bottles.
WE CANNOT AND WILL NOT DOSE ANY MEDICATIONS.
THEY MUST COME PRE-DOSED IN MED BAGS, PILL BOXES OR SYRINGES.
NO EXCEPTIONS!
Please log into CampDoc and ensure that all medications to be taken for the week are correct. This will make check-in faster and smoother. If you do not use Camp Doc, please call the office and provide us with the list of medications and their doses at least the week before camp starts, if not sooner. This is very important!
Camps & Retreats Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel your reservation, you may do so; however, the following will apply:
- If you cancel before the registration deadline, we will refund 100% of your registration fee.
- If you cancel after the registration deadline, your registration deposit will not be refunded.
- If you do not cancel and do not show up, you forfeit all costs.
This policy is subject to change; all participants will be notified of any changes. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 724-841-9280.
Frequently Asked Questions
Click here to open a complete listing of Camp and Retreat-related FAQs.
FireFly Success Stories
With a perfect 10 out of 10 rating for her camp experience, Jessica’s story is a testament to the positive and transformative impact of our camp.
Overall, Willie’s experience at camp has been life-changing, and he rates it a 100 out of 10.
Fitz’s testimonial highlights the camp’s role in fostering independence, building confidence, and creating lasting memories.
Throughout the week, Rebekah enjoyed a variety of activities, including archery, arts and crafts, and making new friends.
For more information about FireFly Camps and Retreats, please contact Haley Spanner, Camps & Retreats Manager, at hspanner@classcommunity.org, 412-683-7100 ext. 2158, 1-888-954-2424, or via our online contact form.
