Community Highlights: Meet Janelle Bingham of Camp RISE

Today we’d like to introduce you to Janelle Bingham.

Janelle, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Claudette and Janelle founded Camp RISE in 2021 with one shared vision: creating a safe, joyful, and truly inclusive summer experience for children with exceptionalities. As a speech‑language pathologist and an occupational therapist, they saw firsthand how few summer programs understood neurodiversity, communication needs, sensory differences, and behavior through a therapeutic lens.
They knew families deserved a place where their children could thrive, be accepted, and have fun without judgment, and Camp RISE was born.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
In the beginning, everything fell on their shoulders. Securing a safe, accessible location was one of the biggest hurdles. Coordinating schedules, materials, safety protocols, communication with families, and day‑to‑day camp operations was overwhelming for two people trying to do the work of ten.
But they kept going. They trusted the mission, trusted each other, and trusted the families who believed in them.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Camp RISE?
Camp RISE blends therapeutic insight with classic camp fun. Founded and led by a speech‑language pathologist and an occupational therapist, the camp is intentionally designed to support communication, sensory needs, social‑emotional development, and independence.
Campers participate in a wide range of activities, including:
sensory‑friendly play — structured, calming, and accessible
creative arts and crafts — encouraging expression and fine‑motor growth
outdoor movement and games — promoting confidence and physical activity
social skill‑building activities — woven naturally into daily routines
theme days and special events — adding excitement and variety
Every moment at Camp RISE is designed to meet campers where they are, honoring their strengths and supporting their needs.
Camp RISE is more than a summer camp — it’s a community. A safe haven. A place where children with exceptionalities can experience joy, connection, and confidence.

What were you like growing up?
Can we skip this

Contact Info:

• Website: https://camprisega.com
• Instagram: camprisegeorgia
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/CampRISEGeorgia