Conducted a comprehensive evaluation nationwide of over 2,000 campers in 15 residential summer camp programs specializing in serving persons with disabilities, 3. Computed national norms for the project's two major instruments using camper data generated from camps representing major regions of the country, and 4. In our country, organized residential camping is a traditional and well respected type of recreation and leisure for children, youth, and adults. Participation in organized camping and related outdoor programs is also viewed as an effective medium for meeting the diverse needs of individuals in our society. As a case in point, specialized camp programs serving persons with disabilities are well established, and the recent emergence of inclusive camps is providing increased opportunities for youth with impairments to attend camp.
Professionals also agree that limited research has existed to confirm such beliefs.
The NCEP originated in response to the need for improved research. The camp directors, staff, and research assistants were also assisted by NCEP regional research supervisors.