Diabetes Youth Services (DYS), a local independent nonprofit based in Toledo, was recognized on the national level for their efforts in low-income camper recruitment. Camping organizations supporting Type 1 diabetes (T1D) across the country gathered to learn more about efforts to utilize funding provided by New Venture Fund, supported by Leona and Harry Helmsley Charitable Trust.

DYS provides full and partial scholarships, payment plans, partnerships for accessibility to day camps by partnering with the Ronald McDonald House of Northwest Ohio for out-of-area families, as well as free transportation from Toledo to overnight resident camps and a duffel bag program to ensure all campers have needed supplies for camp.

“It is a great feeling for us to be recognized for the commitment we make to our families to get kids to camp,” said Cindy Presser, director of program development and former camper. “Families already spend a lot of money on diabetes, and kids need a healthy place to learn about diabetes and themselves.”

On average, a family with a T1D child will spend about $2,500 each year on diabetes-specific medical costs, according to the University of Michigan. DYS provides summer camp sessions, year-found family programs and free school training to families impacted by diabetes in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan.