Burn Center - Camp Hope

Camp Hope
William P. Ridley 4-H Center
850 Lion Parkway
Columbia, TN 38401
(615) 349-5645

Every summer, we have a blend of new and experienced campers.

We offer modern, air-conditioned cabins with twin beds, and a community bathroom and shower. Each room sleeps six to eight campers, with one counselor for every two campers. Counselors stay in the same cabin as the campers.

Campers should bring their own bedding, clothing, towels and other gear.

Activities include swimming, crafts, nature hikes, games, team-building exercises and burn/fire education.

Campers will have scheduled periods of free time throughout the day, usually before and after meals.

Cell phones are not allowed. We believe cell phones distract from camp activities and interfere with bonds between campers.

Can I visit my child during camp?

We don’t encourage visits by families during camp. You may join us for Family Safety Day on the last Saturday of camp, which includes special activities and lunch. You may bring siblings to this event. Call us at (615) 349-5645 to let us know you would like to attend and provide the number in your group.

How can I contact my child during camp?

Call (615) 349-5645.

Will my child need money at camp?

No, all activities are free.

Is there transportation to or from camp for my child?

Let us know if you need help with transportation when you submit your camper application. We don’t provide transportation from camp to your home, so please make arrangements to pick up your child on the last day.

Who will supervise activities?

Our volunteers are medical staff, burn survivors and community volunteers. All counselors are older than 18 and have passed a background check. All staff receive training prior to camp to provide positive reinforcement and role modeling, as well as encouragement of a sense of fair play.

We ask parents or guardians to sign a Camper Code of Conduct prior to your child attending camp.

If my child is not enjoying camp, is homesick or is not adjusting to the experience, can he/she come home?

Yes, but every effort will be made to encourage the child to remain at camp. Parents will be consulted before we recommend that a child go home.

Don't feel guilty about encouraging your child to stay at camp. For many children, camp is a first step toward independence and plays an important role in their growth and development.

Other tips for parents

Encourage your child's independence throughout the year. Practice separations, such as sleepovers at a friend's house, that can simulate the camp experience.

• Please don't tell you child you will "rescue" him/her from camp if they don't like it.
• Discuss what camp will be like before your child arrives. Acknowledging your child's feelings.
• Allow your child to pack a favorite stuffed animal or photo to have a reminder of home.
• Send a letter to your child before camp begins so it will be waiting for them at arrival. Address mail to:

William P. Ridley 4-H Center
850 Lion Parkway
Columbia, TN 38401
Attn: Camp Hope/Your Camper's Name

Help us help children recovering from burn injuries. There are many ways to support Camp Hope.

• Donate online. Make a one-time or monthly gift through our secure online donation form. Camp Hope is pre-selected as your area of support. You can also dedicate your gift in honor or memory of a loved one or friend.
• Volunteer. Donate your time by volunteering at Camp Hope. For more information, email Brittni Davis, BSN, RN.
• Give in other ways. You can mail your gift or find other ways to support Camp Hope that align with your interests. For more information, visit Vanderbilt University Medical Center Giving, call (615) 936-0230 or email giving@vumc.org.

For more information about Camp Hope, contact:

Brittni Davis BSN, RN, Camp Hope Director
brittni.m.davis.1@vumc.org 
(615) 349-5645

or write to:

Vanderbilt Burn Center
1211 21st Ave. S.
332 Medical Arts Building
Nashville, TN 37232