Gluten-Free Summer Camp

Some of the best summers of my life were spent at a sleep-away camp in Riverhead, NY. My sister and I went for 7 years and still keep in touch with camp friends today. I always had a special milk crate of my food in the walk-in refrigerators at camp. I became close friends with Mary-Anne, the cook, and was able to help myself to various things that were reserved for counselors only. I probably could have been more careful throughout my camp years, but I was definitely watched out for by Mary-Anne. It amazes me that there are now gluten-free camps. Although many of them are quite far from where I grew up, it would have been nice to have this option growing up.

Nancy, at the Celiac Disease About.com site, put together a great list of gluten-free summer camps. There is probably a huge sense of relief for a parent that sends their Celiac child to one of these camps. There is no need to worry about your child getting sick when dining in a mess hall. These camps all sponsor gluten-free sessions.

Camp Sponsor: The Georgia Celiac Foundation
Location: Camp Twin Lakes in Rutledge, Georgia.
Dates: May 8-10, 2009
Camp Wee-Kan-Eat-It Family Weekend is for any family (adults and children) with a family member with celiac disease.
Details: Camp is held at Camp Twin Lakes is a state-of-the-art, fully accessible facility located on 500 acres. In 2008, camp cost about $350 per family. Scholarships are likely to be available. Other allergies can be accommodated.

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Camp Sponsor: The Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG)
Location 1: Camp Kanata, Wake Forest, NC
Dates: June 21-27, 2009

Location 2: Camp Sealth, Vashon Island, WA
Dates: July 28-August 3; Aug 4-7; or July 28-August 7, 2009
Details: GIG Kids Camps are mainstream, integrated camps, where kids must still be aware of what foods are safe and not safe, ask questions and be able to talk to others about their eating restrictions. Camp counselors are trained by GIG Staff. GIG makes sure the necessary gluten free substitutions are available for meals and any activity the kids might do. Each GIG Kids Camp has a GIG dietitian on site. Important: Register for GIG Kids Summer Camp programs at Camp Kanata and Camp Sealth, and then send a copy of your child’s registration to GIG with the GIG Camp Forms.

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Camp Sponsor: Celiac Sprue Association
Location: Camp Aldersgate, North Scituate, Rhode Island
Dates: August 9-14, 2009
For children and youth with celiac disease ages 7-16.
Details: Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2009, Camp Celiac is one of the largest gluten-free camps in the United States, with children coming from across the United States and abroad. The camp is closed to all other groups during the gluten-free sessions, to allow for a gluten-free dining hall and atmosphere. Camp Celiac provides a full-time, registered nurse licensed in the state of Rhode Island to handle all medical needs including medications. Scholarships are available.

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Camp Sponsor: Celiac Disease Foundation
Location: Camp Arroyo, Livermore, California
Dates: July 26-31, 2009
For campers ages 9-17.
Details: Camp Arroyo, an old-fashioned summer camp for kids, offers a gluten-free week at no charge except for a $25 registration fee per camper. The camp encourages adults to volunteer as camp counselors, promising an amazing gluten-free camp experience for them, too.

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Camp Sponsor: Dallas R.O.C.K. (Raising Our Celiac Kids)
Location: Camp Gilmont in Gilmer, Texas
Dates: June 14 - 19, 2009
For children ages 7-15
Details: The Great Gluten Escape at Camp Gilmont gives campers the opportunity to participate in all camp activities without concern for the gluten content of the food provided. The camp prides itself on letting kids escape from the daily peer pressure of the "I can't have that" syndrome. This camp also welcomes siblings between the ages of 7 and 15 who do not have celiac disease, dermatitis herpetiformis, or gluten intolerance (although all food will be gluten free).

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Camp Sponsor: Camp Westminster
Location: Camp Westminster on Higgins Lake in Roscommon, Michigan
Dates: Children ages 7-14, June 21-27, 2009; Families, July 1-5, 2009
Details: This week promises all the fun of Camp Westminster, with food accurately and sensitively prepared by experienced cooks, for a traditional week of camp for children and youth with sensitivities to foods containing gluten and casein.

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Camp Sponsor: Michigan Capital Celiacs/DH
Location: Camp Manitou-Lin on the shores of Ol' Lake Barlow in Middleville, Michigan
Dates: August 16-21, 2009
For children ages 7-15
Details: Cost in 2008 was $419 for the week. Camp Manitou-Lin, on 160 acres, is a branch of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids. Seventeen heated and carpeted cabins with bathrooms and showers will house campers, 10 to a cabin.

Gluten-Free Fun Camp

No, I am not hosting a camp this summer (I WISH!) but I did find this camp online when doing a Google search about my blog. As I have mentioned before, my summers at D.P.F. 4-H Camp are some of my best memories from growing up. I went out there for 7 consecutive summers and even worked my way up to senior counselor. My sister and I often reminisce and talk about the day when we can both quit our jobs and go back to being summer camp counselors. When I was a kid, there was no such thing as a gluten-free camp. Lately, it seems that these camps are popping up all over the place. This Gluten-Free Fun Camp is located in Maple Lake, MN and is sponsored by Twin Cities R.O.C.K. volunteers and Camp Courage. Read on for more information.

Gluten-Free Fun Camp

If you have a child with celiac disease this could be a treat -- a camp experience like none other! Campers get all the whole package: cabins, swimming, horseback riding AND the entire menu is gluten-free. No one feels left out or different, Join us for Gluten-Free Fun Camp at Camp Courage in Maple Lake, Minnesota August 10-13th, 2010.

Deadline for camp registration is July 15th! Or sign up for our one-day, Day Camp too (see below)!

Preparing for Camp: packing, check-in instructions and more

A partnership between Twin Cities R.O.C.K. volunteers and Camp Courage, Gluten-Free Fun Camp allows the food part of a celiac lifestyle to become secondary to having fun. At school, parties, and other camps, these children spend every day carefully planning meals, reading labels, considering food options, and eating something different than most of their peers. At Gluten-Free Fun camp, all of the food is gluten free and carefully prepared to ensure safe eating for the campers leaving no reason for the campers to wonder “can I eat this?”

Camp Courage is located on more than 300 acres of land, which includes lakeshore on Cedar Lake. Campers will enjoy swimming, boat rides, tubing, horseback riding, hiking, bonfires, crafts, beach parties, night games and more! This is the whole camp experience. Camp counselors are provided by Camp Courage and are fully trained to assist children with medical needs. They also will be eating the same gluten-free food as the campers.

Our Food Coordinator along with ROCK volunteers carefully prepare each delicious gluten-free meal and snack. While the goal is for the campers to forget about food for awhile, cooking staff strives to make each meal an event to remember. Past favorites include a pizza party, cotton candy and snow-cones on the beach, and a chocolate fountain.

Who can come to Gluten-Free Fun Camp?

Children ages 8-17 who have celiac disease or who are on a gluten-free diet are welcome at Gluten-Free Fun Camp.

Friends and siblings of children with Celiac or on a GF diet may also attend camp (Important: all campers and staff must adhere to the gluten-free diet while at camp). All children must be 8 before September 1, 2010.

Other dietary restrictions can also be accommodated.

It is $270 for a child to attend Gluten-Free Fun Camp. For more information on the fee structure or to apply for a scholarship, download the registration form now. Deadline for camp registration is July 15th!

One-Day, Day Camp at Gluten-Free Fun Camp

If you have a child who doesn't meet the age requirement yet or isn't ready to sleep away from home, you can still experience camp for a few hours. Enjoy two gluten-free meals, plus horseback riding, swimming and more! Our "Day Camp" option will be available on August 11.

Details: Check-in is at 11:30 AM, followed by introductions and a craft for the kids. We will then eat a great gluten free lunch with the overnight campers. A tour of the facilities will be given and special activities, such as a beach party and horseback riding, will be planned for day campers. Then we will all join the campers again for dinner.

There is a charge of $10 for one parent and one child. Additional parents are $7 and additional children are $3 each. The maximum a family will be charged is $20. This can be paid when checking in on August 11.

If you want to RSVP for Day Camp or have additional questions about it, contact our camp coordinator by locating "Gluten Free Fun Camp" in the Contact Us dropdown. Please RSVP by July 15th.

2014 Celiac and Gluten-Free Summer Camps

The summer might feel far away, but the best time to sign up for summer camp is now! Here is a round-up of all of the 2014 Celiac and gluten-free summer camp sessions that I have discovered so far. Some of the camps offer scholarships, so be sure to click the links if you are looking for more information. I wonder if I am too old for summer camp in Switzerland!!!!

Gluten-Free Family Camp Weekend 
Milford, Pennsylvania
May 30 to June 1, 2014

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Great Gluten Escape at Gilmont Summer Camps

Gilmer, Texas

June 15-20, 2014

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Camp Free to Be at Camp Westminster

Roscommon, Michigan

June 15-21, 2014

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Gluten Free Overnight Camp Female

Gluten Free Overnight Camp Male

Middleville, Michigan

June 29-July 3, 2014

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Camp Weekaneatit

Warm Springs, Georgia

July 13-18, 2014

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Gluten-Free Fun Camp at Camp Courage

Annandale, Minnesota

July 20-25, 2014

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Camp Celiac at Camp Arroyo
Livermore, California

Session One: July 21-24, 2014
Session Two: July-27, 2014

Note: The by-laws of The Taylor Family Foundation require that they give priority to campers from Northern California.

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Gluten Detective 2014 Day Camp

Bloomington, Minnesota

July 22-24, 2014

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CYE Summer Camp

Gruppenhaus Bärgsunne, Switzerland

July 26-August 2, 2014

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Gluten-Free Week at Camp Kanata

Wake Forest, North Carolina

Camp is in conjunction with Gluten Intolerance Group

July 27-August 2, 2014

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Celiac Strong Camp

Ithaca, New York

August 1-3, 2014

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Gluten Free Summer Camp Ohio
Camp Y-Noah near Akron, Ohio
August 3-9, 2014

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Gluten-Free Week at Camp Sealth

Vashon Island, Washington

Camp is in conjunction with Gluten Intolerance Group

August 4-9, 2014

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Camp Celiac at Camp Aldersgate

North Scituate, Rhode Island

August 10-15, 2014

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Rod McDaniel Celiac Kids Camp

Water Valley, Alberta, Canada

August 18-22, 2014

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Camp Silly Yak at Brigadoon Children's Camp 
Aylesford Lake, Nova Scotia, Canada
August 24-29, 2014

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Camp Eagle Hill
Dedicated gluten-free kitchen
Sessions throughout the summer

Do you have a camp that should be added? Please email me at gfreefun@gmail.com

Gluten-Free Camp 2012 with the Celiac Disease Foundation

If you read my blog, you will know I love camp. If you spend time with my sister and I, inevitably we will probably tell you a camp story or sing you a camp song. We are those girls that say "And one time, at 4-H Camp..." without the gross band-camp stores. ;-)

I went to day camp for many years and then went to DPF Nassau County 4-H Sleepaway Camp for 7 years.  All of my camp years were as a kid living with Celiac on a gluten-free diet. Camp memories are wonderful memories that I will never forget. I still keep in touch with some camp friends thanks to Facebook and I plan on sending my own children to camp one day. It truly was a great experience.

Unfortunately for parents of Celiac children they are often too nervous to send their child away to camp for fear of being glutened when away from home. I completely understand this feeling. I had my own milk crate of gluten-free food in the walk-in fridge at camp and developed a great relationship with my camp cook, giving her a big tip at the end of every summer. Even with my own food crate, there was still always a risk of getting sick when being fed mass-produced food. My camp cook never heard of being gluten-free but she was willing to hold my food and help me out with special meals when needed. I will never forget the first time she handed me a plate of gluten-free French toast made with my bread on a Sunday morning. It meant the world to me! I ate a lot of salads during the summer, but I also safely enjoyed countless meals while drinking bug juice. (if you went to camp, you know what I mean!)

Luckily, things have changed in the past 15 years and now more and more camps are offering gluten-free weeks. I think this is a wonderful idea and I encourage parents to sign their kids up for these camps. It will help put your mind at ease knowing that the facility, the counselors, and the organizers understand Celiac Disease and the necessity of serving gluten-free food to your children.

I am excited to announce that the Celiac Disease Foundation is having their very first Children's Celiac Camp in July30 - August 3, 2012 for kids ages 7 to 15. This week-long session promises fun activities, amazing outdoor activities in the San Bernardino Mountains, and most importantly gluten-free food all week long. If you live in California or nearby, I really do encourage you to sign your kids up for this gluten-free camp week. Trust me, it will be a memorable experience for your child!

Click here for the full-sized flyer.

You can read more about camp and download all of the registration forms by clicking here.

Rudi’s Gluten-Free Bakery Awards 10 Gluten-Free Camp Scholarships

I am so excited about this announcement and slightly jealous. I've said it before and I will say it again, I LOVE CAMP! I think every child should go to camp at least twice in their life. Twice, because if they are like my sister and I your kid might hate their first time. ha! My camp summers were my best summers. I went to sleep-away for seven summers and was gluten-free every single summer! More than 15 years later I still keep in touch with friends from camp. Read on to learn about an exciting scholarship opportunity from Rudi's Gluten-Free.

Rudi’s Gluten-Free Bakery Celebrates National Celiac Awareness Month by Awarding 10 Gluten-Free Summer Camp Scholarships

Rudi’s Gluten-Free now accepting entries to the Gluten-Free ‘Happy Camper’ essay contest on Facebook 

Boulder, Colo. – (May 1, 2013) –Rudi’s Gluten-Free Bakery® is ready for summer vacation and can’t wait to help kids across the country enjoy their summer camp experience, even if they eat gluten-free. According to the American Camp Association, 10 million kids attend a summer camp every year. Since it’s a part of so many kids’ summer vacations, Rudi’s Gluten-Free is inviting Facebook fans to visit the “Rudi’s Gluten-Free Happy Camper” application this May, National Celiac Awareness Month, to submit a 200-word essay from their child for a chance to win one of 10 scholarships to a gluten-free summer camp.

“Enthusiastically giving back to our communities has long been an important part of our business, and this is the third year we’ve made a commitment to the gluten-free community during Celiac Awareness Month,” said Doug Radi, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Rudi’s Organic Bakery. “Summer camp is all about making memories that last, and a child’s dietary restrictions shouldn’t prevent them from having the experience of a lifetime. We’re thrilled that the Rudi’s Gluten-Free Happy Camper program will provide 10 deserving kids with a gluten-free camp experience.”

Parents with eligible children, ages 8-17, can enter the contest by ‘liking’ Rudi’s Gluten-Free on Facebook and submitting an essay from their child explaining what going to a gluten-free summer camp would mean to them. As an additional incentive to enter in early May, Rudi’s Gluten-Free has promised to give the first 250 eligible fans that enter an official Rudi’s Gluten-Free Happy Camper water bottle. The 10 winners will be selected by Rudi’s Gluten-Free Bakery and announced on Facebook on June 10, 2013, giving parents and campers time to plan and pack up for a summertime camp adventure.

"Having a special dietary need like celiac disease can make the simple act of going to camp far more challenging,” said Alice Bast, founder and president, National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (NFCA). “Fortunately, there are more options today than ever before, whether it’s a dedicated gluten-free summer camp or a ‘mainstream’ camp that has been properly trained to serve gluten-free campers. Rudi's Gluten-Free Bakery has done an excellent job supporting the gluten-free community, and we are glad to see them continuing that work with their camp scholarship program."

In the spirit of summer camps, National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (NFCA) also offers a gluten-free training program called GREAT Schools, Colleges and Camps. The online course will prepare camp directors and kitchen staff to safely accommodate your child's gluten-free dietary needs. Learn more at CeliacCentral.org/GREAT/schools. 

Rudi’s Gluten-Free strives to create partnerships and programs that give back to the gluten-free community in a way that drives toward a better, brighter future. Offering gluten-free summer camp scholarships provides the perfect opportunity for kids to be kids without worrying about dietary restrictions. Parents can rest assured knowing that many camps are either entirely free of gluten or cater to gluten-free diets.

In addition to connecting with gluten-free fans for summer camp fun, Rudi’s Gluten-Free recently reintroduced its line of Sandwich Breads with a new Soft & Fluffy recipe. With a yummy taste, longer shelf life, double the fiber content with 2g per serving and the Gluten Free Certification Organization (GFCO) recognizable seal, these breads are the perfect base to a delicious sandwich while camping or hiking this summer. Rudi’s Gluten-Free Sandwich Breads come in Original, Multigrain, and Cinnamon Raisin varieties. 

For more information on the Happy Camper contest and Rudi’s Gluten-Free, visit rudisglutenfree.com.

About Rudi’s Organic Bakery, Inc.

Rudi’s Organic Bakery, Inc., has been passionate about baking better breads for families for more than 35 years. Founded and headquartered in Boulder, Colo., Rudi’s Organic Bakery is the only nationally available brand offering a full line of nutritious and delicious, certified organic breads and baked goods. Rudi’s Organic is committed to baking breads using only the best organic ingredients and no artificial additives, preservatives and GMOs. In 2010, Rudi’s Organic leveraged this heritage to create Rudi’s Gluten-Free Bakery, a line of gluten-free breads and baked goods made with wholesome, all-natural ingredients so that each bite tastes like the real thing. Rudi’s Organic and Rudi’s Gluten-Free products are available nationally at natural foods stores and select mainstream supermarkets. For more information, visit rudisbakery.com.

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Gluten-Free Summer Camp 2016

It's that time of year again to sign up for summer camp. If your child has celiac disease, you don't have to worry at these camps. They can all cater to the gluten-free diet and many are 100% gluten-free for the week mentioned below. Do you have a camp I should add to this list? Email me at gfreefun@gmail.com

LET'S GO TO CAMP!

May 29-June 3, 2016
Camp Weekaneatit
Warm Springs, GA

June 10-12, 2016
Gluten-Free Family Camp
Milford, PA

June 12-16, 2016
Camp Gluten Freedom
St. Paul, IN
Note: Camp will accommodate gluten-free and allergen needs all summer long!

June 12-17, 2016
Camp Waluhili
Chouteau, OK

June 19-25, 2016
Free to Be Camp
Roscommon, MI

June 19-25, 2016
Camp Manitou-Lin
Middleville, MI

July 11-14 and July 14-17, 2016
Camp Celiac
Livermore, CA

July 17-22, 2016
Gluten-Free Fun Camp
Annandale, MN

July 24-27, 2016
Celiac Strong Camp
Ithaca, NY

July 24-30, 2016
Great Gluten Escape
Gilmer, TX

August 2-4, 3016
Gluten Detective Camp
Bloomington, MN

August 7-12, 2016
Camp Celiac
Vashon Island, WA

Gluten-Free at Camp Westminster

Growing up, I always went to camp. First I was at day camp and then for seven summers I went to D.P.F. Nassau County 4-H Camp in Riverhead, NY. Those seven summers were honestly the best ones of my life. I loved the camp so much that I was a CIT, junior counselor, and senior counselor. The only reason I stopped going was because I had to go to college and start making some real money. We used to joke we got paid something ridiculous like $0.21 per hour! But the memories and friendships I made at camp were truly priceless. I was lucky enough to have a cook at camp that would help me out with my dietary needs. Thanks Maryanne! In retrospect, I am sure I could have done more but as I got older I simply learned a lot of eating things I did in my life could have been more careful. These days, it is amazing to me that there are camps that cater full weeks to gluten-free meals. Camp Westminster is one of those camps! Read more from Camp Westminster:


Did you enjoy summer camp as a child?
Have you been hoping your child would have the same opportunity to learn and grow in a summer camp environment?

This can be difficult, even impossible, if your child struggles with food related health problems. That is why Camp Westminster on Higgins Lake in Michigan (www.campwestminster.com) is offering camp opportunities for children who require special menus.

GFCF camp will be the week of June 20-26, 2010.

NEW THIS YEAR: A gluten free menu will be available, with advance registration, during any week of camp in 2010. If your child has other food issues, contact us to discuss accommodations. If you have food related camp questions, please contact Deanna at dkseng99 @ voyager.net or Pam Jann at pamelajann @ hotmail.com .

Send a Child to Gluten-Free Summer Camp!

Once again, I am helping to promote sending kids to camp. I have written about camp over and over on this site because my years as a camper were some of the best summers of my life. If every kid can go to camp, I support this. Today, I got an email from Gluten-Free Saver announcing a "deal" to help send a kid to camp. Read on for more information.

Today's Deal: Donate $5 and help sponsor a child to attend CDF Camp Gluten-Free in July 2013 and Gluten-Free Saver will match your generous donation!

Click here to donate today!

ABOUT THE DEAL

There is nothing more transformative for a child with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity than spending time at camp. Campers learn life lessons while making friends that last a lifetime. If you ask any camper why they come back to "Celiac Camp" year after year, the answer is inevitably that they "feel like they are coming home" or that "all of their best friends come to camp."

The Celiac Disease Foundation is committed to fostering a warm and embracing community where there is something for everyone, in a strictly gluten-free environment. At CDF Camp Gluten-Free, campers enjoy sports, swimming, arts, high adventure and most importantly, campers get to enjoy a completely gluten-free breakfast, lunch and dinner with their friends!

The summer camp will be held at Camp Fire USA Camp Nawakwa in the San Bernardino mountains (near Big Bear) from July 15th - 19th, 2013.  Your generous donation will help sponsor kids between the ages of 7-17 to attend this activity-filled camp in an environment that is 100% gluten-free and dedicated to their dietary needs.

When you donate just $5 (or more), Gluten-Free Saver will match your donation - up to $500 - to help send children to a gluten-free summer camp in beautiful Southern California!

Giving just a few dollars will help create a lifetime of memories for all of the children who attend!  After all, when you donate $5, you're really donating $10! 

Thanks in advance for your generosity!  Now let's raise some money for a GREAT cause!

Click here to learn more and donate today!

Camp Eagle Hill Goes Gluten-Free

If you haven't read it here before, read it now: I LOVE CAMP. You can search my website and see how many times I talk fondly of my days as a camper. Nothing makes me happier than to learn about camps now accommodating gluten-free campers with ease. 

Camp Eagle Hill is a beautiful and modern two hundred acre facility located just ninety miles north of New York City in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains. They are very proud of their many new camp areas and facilities. Recently, Camp Eagle Hill completely renovated all of their girls’cabins, added a large Dance Studio, built a new Cooking Area, added a Technical Theatre Area, and built a new climbing tower and zip line. They also built a brand new baseball field with a beautiful dirt infield. The camp facility is filled with great activity areas and each year they add to their facility and program.

NEW FOR 2012: A dedicated gluten free kitchen. 

The Camp Eagle Hill gluten-free menu will echo their regular food service menu and allow gluten free campers to enjoy the same meals eaten by all of campers every camp day.

Camp Eagle Hill offers a well rounded program with a combination of group and individually selected activities. They have a full Sports program (with a tremendous gymnasium), extensive arts program, lots of waterfront activities, a strong performing arts program, campouts, trips, special events and much more.

Camp Eagle Hill has a very large adult Staff and offers excellent supervision and instruction. Small camp groups at Eagle Hill allow for extra attention and care for the individual camper. Many large indoor areas help to eliminate any rainy day problems! Most important, they have a Directorship that will know and care for each child and help him/her to enjoy a great camp experience!

The Camp Eagle Hill facilities include: a beautiful lake and 2 pools, 2 baseball fields, 2 soccer fields, 5 basketball courts, 8 tennis courts, 3 volleyball courts, a hockey rink, a large multi-purpose gymnasium, a tremendous recreation hall/canteen, a large Arts Center, a Theatre Arts Building, go-karts track, archery area, dance studio, climbing tower and zip line area, gymnastics pavilion, mountain biking trails, a beautiful overnights campsite and more.

Please visit the Camp Eagle Hill website today for more information. 

FREE Summer Camp for Celiac Kids at Camp Arroyo in Livermore, California

I am so incredibly jealous of this opportunity. I would have loved to go to a completely gluten-free summer camp back in the day.

Announcing a special offer! FREE Summer Camp (only $25 registration fee) for Celiac Kids at Camp Arroyo in Livermore, California! This special session, from August 20-23 for kids 9-17 years old, is being sponsored by Celiac Disease Foundation, Team GlutenFreeT,Celiac Sprue Research Foundation and Taylor Family Foundation.

All activities, food and snacks are presented in a gluten-free environment!

For more information contact: campceliac@gmail.com for registration package. Include name, gender and age of camper. For more information about the camp visit www.ttff.org

SPACES ARE STILL AVAILABLE. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY!

Celiac Disease Foundation in partnership with Team GlutenFreeT is also pleased to provide a limited number of scholarships to summer camps for celiac kids. A child on a gluten-free diet may have difficulty at a mainstream camp, but shouldn't miss out on the experience. There are several Celiac Camps across the country, offering celiac children everything from boating, canoeing, swimming, arts and crafts, low and high ropes challenge courses, adventure programming, field events, and team work. Most importantly, all meals are GLUTEN-FREE, including campfire treats and
barbecues.

Visit www.celiac.org/kidskorner.php for more information.



Celiac Disease Foundation
13251 Ventura Blvd. Suite 1
Studio City, CA 91604
818/990-2354 phone
818/990-2379 fax
www.celiac.org

Gluten-Free Family Camp Weekend

Gluten-Free Family Camp is coming to New Jersey on June 10th!! Proceeds for the weekend benefit the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University Medical Center.

Thank you to Nicole Hunn, from Gluten-Free on a Shoestring, for letting me know about this Gluten-Free Family Camp Weekend in New Jersey. You can meet Nicole at camp that weekend during some of her gluten-free cooking demonstrations. My gluten-free twin nieces are turning four that weekend and I am sure they would love to attend something like this when they are a little bit older. As my readers know, my summer camp years were some of my best summers ever!

Gluten Free Family Camp Weekend

June 10-12 

$250 per Adult, Children FREE

Weekend Menu

Gluten Free Family Camp Registration

Proceeds to benefit the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University Medical Center

For additional information on NJY Gluten Free Program call 973-575-3333 x190 or email glutenfree@njycamps.org

Learn more at NJY Camps Gluten-Free Program on Facebook.

Send a Gluten-Free Kid to Camp!

I am really excited about this fundraiser to send kids to gluten-free camp for one week. Next July, the Celiac Disease Foundation is hosting their very first week-long gluten-free summer camp. In the holiday spirit of giving, Gluten-Free Saver has partnered with Van’s Natural Foods to help raise money for scholarships for children to attend the gluten-free summer camp next July!

This week only when you donate just $2 (or more if you choose), Van’s Foods will match all donations until they reach $1,000. Help support the cause and reach the goal of $2,000 total at www.glutenfreesaver.com.

Sure, receiving gifts this time of year is always fun, but the feeling of knowing that your generous donation of just $2 can bring a tremendous amount of joy to a young child… well, now that’s priceless. 100% of all donations will go directly to CDF. If you’re feeling extra generous this holiday season, you aren’t limited to donating just $2 – you can give as much money as your heart desires!

As a camp enthusiast, I think this fundraiser is fantastic. Please consider donating this holiday season to send a kid to gluten-free camp!

End Your Summer with Gluten-Free S'moreables Giveaway

DUE TO AN OVERWHELMING RESPONSE TO THIS GIVEAWAY, IT IS CLOSED AS OF TODAY (9/1/11).

When I went to sleepaway camp, s'mores were a camp favorite. Unfortunately, I was always the one camper awkwardly trying to make a s'more with only chocolate and marshmallows. This is not an easy task as the marshmallows and chocolate start melting all over the place. If I only had these S'moreables Graham Style Crackers back in the day, I would have been all set with my gluten-free s'mores!

As soon as I got my samples last week, I dug right in to the box of S'moreables. These did not disappoint. I ate about four of these crackers before I had to force myself to put away the box. If only I had a campfire, some marshmallows, and chocolate at my desk at work. ;-)

Kinnikinnick Foods, North America’s largest manufacturer of gluten-free baked goods and snacks, offers S’moreables Graham Style Crackers, perfect for summertime camping and making irresistibly gooey s’mores.

The perfect gluten-free accompaniment to melted chocolate and roasted marshmallow, Kinnikinnick’s S'moreables are available online and at select health food and traditional grocery stores in both the United States and Canada for an SRP of $4.59.

Although camp days are over and kids are heading back to school, it is still warm enough to light up a camp fire (or turn on your stove!) and make some good old S'mores.

GIVEAWAY

Want to win your very own box of Kinnikinnick treats including S’moreables, Chocolate KinniTOOS, Original KinniKritters, and Montana’s Chocolate Chip cookies? Here's how to enter:

1. Like Kinnikinnick on Facebook and leave them a comment saying "Erin at Gluten-Free Fun sent me!"
2. Like my Gluten-Free Fun page on Facebook and tell me you left a comment on Kinnikinnick's page.

If you don't have a Facebook account, leave a comment below with your email address and you will be entered for the Kinnikinnick giveaway.

I will choose one winner using Random.org on Friday, September 2nd. Enter today!


DUE TO AN OVERWHELMING RESPONSE TO THIS GIVEAWAY, IT IS CLOSED AS OF TODAY (9/1/11).

Gluten-Free Summer Campership Fundraising Extravaganza

I got this email from my friend Josh, of GFreek.com, last week. When I read that he was trying to raise money for gluten-free campers I jumped at the opportunity to share this information. Please read on to learn about Josh's partnership with Team Gluten-Free for the Campership Fundraising Extravaganza!

Who: The Celiac Disease Foundation is a non-profit, public benefit corporation dedicated to providing services and support regarding Celiac Disease and Dermatitis Herpetiformis, through programs of awareness, education, advocacy and research.

Team Gluten-Free is a fundraising program that provides a simple way for runners, walkers, cyclists and triathletes to raise awareness and funds for celiac disease. The money raised by Team Gluten-Free™ participants goes directly towards summer camp scholarships for children on the gluten-free diet as well as celiac disease research, support and awareness programs. Team Gluten-Free™ is a fundraising arm of the Celiac Disease Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, public benefit corporation dedicated to the education of patients, families and health care professionals.

GFreek.com connects the gluten-free community with the best gluten-free products, services and organizations through the Annual Gluten-Free Awards and their Podcast  The G-Freek Show.

What: To raise awareness and money;  Josh Schieffer from Gfreek.com will be participating in three races for Team Gluten-Free this fall.  October 20th is the Beach to Battleship Ironman distance Triathlon; A 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and a full 26.2 mile marathon.  On November 4th,  four other runners and Josh will run the New York City Marathon.  And finally the following weekend, November 11th  Josh will run the Charlotte Marathon. 


To help raise funds, some of the best gluten free companies are providing rewards for  financial donors.  Rewards will start at $10.00 donations and climb all the way to $1,000.00.  The rewards will vary from time to time as companies adjust and add products.  Stay up to date with the current rewards at http://www.gfreek.com/Charity_Running.html

Why:A child on the gluten-free diet may have difficulty at a mainstream camp, but shouldn't miss out on the experience. There are several camps across the country that offer celiac children everything from boating, canoeing, swimming, arts and crafts, low and high ropes challenge courses, adventure programming, field events and team work. Most importantly, all meals are gluten-free, including campfire treats and barbecues. Team Gluten-Free™ is proud to provide camp scholarships or “camperships” to celiac children each summer.

Children all over the country will have an opportunity to create lifelong memories because you took the time to make a difference in their lives.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TODAY

Gluten-Free Camp Fundraiser was a HUGE Success!

Thank you all for participating in the donations for the fundraiser to send a kid to gluten-free camp this summer. I am excited to report, that Gluten-Free Saver sent me an email this weekend reporting that the goal of $2000 was met on Friday! Read on for more information including bloggers who helped share the fundraiser information.

Happy Holidays And A BIG THANK YOU... Thanks A Million! In the spirit of the holiday season, you, along with the entire gluten-free community, came through… in a BIG WAY! On Monday, an ambitious fundraising goal was set to raise $2,000 in a very short period of time. We knew it would be difficult, but you (our awesome subscribers) came together, donated, helped spread the word on Facebook and Twitter, and then... THE $2,000 FUNDRAISING GOAL WAS REACHED AT 2 PM EST / 11AM PST FRIDAY! Your generous donations, along with the matching donations from Van’s Natural Foods, will help provide scholarships for children to attend a gluten-free summer camp in July, 2012 that's sponsored by the Celiac Disease Foundation. We want to give a BIG THANKS to some amazing bloggers and partners that went above and beyond to help reach the fundraising goal by posting on their blogs and spreading the word on Facebook and Twitter. Thanks to the following bloggers and partners that helped out… We highly recommend following these blogs, as they are great resources for gluten-free recipes, tips and info: www.glutenfreeislife.com – Thanks to Kim Bouldin! www.glutenfreehelp.info – Thanks to Tina Turbin! www.glutenfreetravelsite.com – Thanks to Karen Broussard! www.glutenfreefun.blogspot.com – Thanks to Erin Smith! www.glutenfreehomemaker.com – Thanks to Linda Etherton! www.glutenfreefitness.com – Thanks to Erin Elberson! www.glutenfreeoptimist.blogspot.com – Thanks to Sandra Robbins! www.gfreek.com – Thanks to Josh Schieffer! www.glutenfreelyfrugal.com – Thanks to Janelle Gregory! http://gf4hm.wordpress.com – Thanks to Janelle Pugh! www.adventuresofaglutenfreemom.com – Thanks to Heidi Kelly! www.surefoodsliving.com – Thanks to Alison St. Sure! www.manageceliac.com – Thanks to Elizabeth Smith! www.stockpilingmoms.com – Thanks to Melissa Jennings! www.glutenfreedomatlanta.com – Thanks to Betsy Metcalf! www.glutenfreemom.com – Thanks to Jamie Eppenauer! www.celiacsinthehouse.com – Thanks to Wendy Gregory Kaho! http://labelreadingmommy.typepad.com – Thanks to Lisa Valaitis! www.allergeena.com – Thanks to Gina Sandora! www.examiner.com/gluten-free-foods-in-atlantic-city – Thanks to Judi Wilson! www.glutenfreeboston.com – Thanks to Becky Zollin! www.glutenfreefrenzy.com – Thanks to Chandice Probst! www.celiacfamily.com – Thanks to Heather Aitken-Cade! http://fconsultant.wordpress.com – Thanks to Katie Cook! www.glutenfreeportland.org – Thanks to David Benz! www.glutenfreesavvy.com – Thanks to Faydra Jones! www.lifeglutenfree.com – Thanks to Heather Collins! http://gfree-gal.blogspot.com – Thanks to Rachel Shaterian! http://glutenfreeandtasty.blogspot.com – Thanks to Amanda Grabler! http://blog.guaranteedgf.com – Thanks to Stacy LaRoche! www.glutenfreeworks.com – Thanks to John Libonati! www.northbayceliacs.org – Thanks to Jennifer Iscol! www.facebook.com/gfpatisserie – Thanks Peter! www.glutenfreeconsultant.blogspot.com – Thanks to Dr. JoAnne Bennett Mirsky! www.gfhealthcoach.com – Thanks to Jodi Baretz! www.seattlegffoodies.com – Thanks to Becky Robbins! www.neohioceliac.com – Thanks to Laurie Sammon! www.theglutenfreeconsultant.com – Thanks to Roh Doylida! And thanks to Terrie Swanson from the Western NC Celiac Support Group! Thanks again to everyone for helping Gluten-Free Saver, Van's Natural Foods and the Celiac Disease Foundation reach the fundraising goal!  We couldn’t have done it without you. HAPPY HOLIDAYS from the Gluten-Free Saver Extreme Savings Team! Stay tuned for yet another great deal coming your way early next week.

Gluten-Free Icing from Betty Crocker

When I went to sleepaway camp in the 90s, my dad would bring me those little vats of icing on parents weekend. That night, my bunkmates and I would be sitting on each other's bunks eating the icing right out of the container. Damn, that was delicious. I would never do that now and barely ever use icing. When I do bake a cake, I usually make my own icing to guarantee its gluten-freeness.

It is great to know that I now have another option, Betty Crocker® Rich and Creamy Frostings and Whipped Frostings. As part of the General Mills gluten-free initiative they have recently added these frostings to their growing gluten-free list of products.

Here is the complete list of gluten-free Betty Crocker frostings:
• Butter Cream (NEW) 16000-38060
• Cherry (NEW) 16000-45890
• Chocolate (NEW) 16000-45840
• Coconut Pecan (NEW) 16000-41239
• Cream Cheese (NEW) 16000-45960
• Creamy White (NEW) 16000-16166
• Dark Chocolate (NEW) 16000-45860
• Lemon (NEW) 16000-45850
• Milk Chocolate (NEW) 16000-45900
• Rainbow Chip (NEW) 16000-46070
• Triple Chocolate Fudge Chip (NEW) 16000-52440
• Vanilla (NEW) 16000-45830

BETTY CROCKER®WHIPPED FROSTINGS
• Butter Cream (NEW) 16000-32990
• Chocolate (NEW) 16000-32320
• Cream Cheese (NEW) 16000-37420
• Fluffy White (NEW) 16000-37460
• Milk Chocolate (NEW) 16000-37410
• Strawberry Mist (NEW) 16000-37400
• Vanilla (NEW) 16000-37430
• Whipped Cream (NEW) 16000-41777

Save the Date: Gluten-Free Fun with the Santa Cruz Socialites

One of my biggest worries about moving out of NYC to California was losing my gluten-free network and friends. I worked years to build a strong gluten-free community both in person and online and I was concerned that leaving New York would break those bonds. But then I realized so much of my support system is through this website and my social media channels, making me quite location independent. My readers (YOU) all sent so many kind words and I received a ton of encouragement through my NYC Celiac Meetup group. Soon I had Friends introducing me to friends, gluten-free locals making suggestions of where to eat, and so many of you giving me the motivation I needed after my cross country move!

For those of you who know me personally, you won't be surprised to hear that I dove head first into networking here in Santa Cruz, CA. I knew if I sat idle, I would have been even more homesick than I was. (Yes, it happened/happens. I miss NY!). I joined the Santa Cruz Challenge, a 12-week boot camp that lets me explore the beautiful west coast, meet others, and get a hardcore daily workout on the beach. One of the very first people I met through the Challenge was Monica Karst, the founder of Santa Cruz Socialites. The name alone struck me as very "Housewives of Santa Cruz" but it is the exact opposite. The Santa Cruz Socialites is a community and online directory of prominent and powerful female business owners across Santa Cruz County. Monica's mission with the Santa Cruz Socialites is to "bring the diverse women in our [Santa Cruz] community together, creating an empowering network of resources, education and inspiration." I left thinking I might have met my new West Coast people!

A few weeks after I initially met Monica, I met up with her again after one of my bootcamps. Covered in sand and sitting in the sun (yes, this is how I take my meetings now), I told Monica all about GlutenFreelancer, my gluten-free consulting business. I also told her about my years of living with celiac disease, my Gluten-Free Fun and Gluten-Free Globetrotter websites, and my gluten-free adventures. Immediately, she felt like I would be a good fit for the Santa Cruz Socialites community.

Each Tuesday morning, the Santa Cruz Socialites hold a "Take Away Tuesday" phone call full of information, inspiration, and motivation for entrepreneurs to use in life and business. I am thrilled to announce I am the guest host next Tuesday, March 1, 2016. I will share my gluten-free expertise and lifelong celiac experiences with the Santa Cruz Socialites community. I am so excited to introduce myself to the Santa Cruz Socialites network and hopefully make some new business connections here in Santa Cruz County!

The best news? You don't have to be a Santa Cruz Socialite to join in! You can dial in at 9am PST on Tuesday if you want to hear me make my Santa Cruz Gluten-Free Debut!

Santa Cruz Socialites 

TakeAwayTuesday with Erin Smith

9:00am PST 

Tuesday, March 1, 2016

Dial in number: (712) 775-7031 

Meeting ID: 572-832-217

NYC Celiac Meetup Upcoming Events

Seriously, can my schedule get any busier?! Although I am not attending every event on this list, I am attending most of them. Check out our latest email blast below:

It’s a busy month for our NYC Celiac Meetup Group. Our calendar is full of some great gluten-free events over the next few weeks and beyond. Have you signed up yet?

2/22/12: Dish Freely Launch Party Happy Hour with Bard's Beer & Krumville Bake Shop

The creators of Dish Freely, a new gluten-free iPhone app, are hosting a happy hour to celebrate the app’s launch on February 22nd from 6:30-8:30pm at Heathers Bar. Download the app ahead of the party at e (http://bit.ly/dishfreely). Don't have an iPhone? Come anyway! 

2/27/12: NAKED PIZZA Gluten-Free Happy Hour

50% off Gluten-free pizza at both locations. Don’t forget to print your ticket! You will need this to get your discount

3/2/12-3/3/12: Intestinal Immune Based Inflammatory Diseases 2-Day Symposium for Patients

Must pre-register with Columbia University

3/5/12: Kicking4Celiac Foundation 1st Anniversary Dinner

$50 per person includes appetizers & Rodizio dinner. Must pre-register with Kicking4Celiac.

3/7/12: The Sharing the Experience of a Gluten-Free Life

A group discussion with Curtis Brown, a psychoanalyst/psychotherapist. Only $5.50 per person

3/20/12: 7th Annual Evening with the Paul Taylor Dance Company and Benefit

SPECIAL: Buy you discounted $29 tickets for pre-performance reception and performance until Feb 29th

6/21/12: Gluten-Free Gourmet Weekend

SPECIAL: Discount for Meetup members until March 30th

5/5/12-5/6/12: 2012 Fundraiser and Gluten-Free Vendor Fair

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NYC CELIAC MEETUP SPONSORS

A sleepaway camp with a dedicated gluten-free kitchen!

Team Gluten-Free Announces '08 Schedule!

Team Gluten-Free™, a project of the Celiac Disease Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, public benefit corporation, is a training program for runners, walkers and cyclists who participate in races across the United States to raise awareness and funds for Celiac Disease. The money we raise goes directly to research and awareness programs and camp scholarships for Celiac children.

Ways you can be a part of Team Gluten-Free™
* Select a race from the race calendar and complete registration form.
* Don't see a race near you? Find out about our Bring Gluten-Free To Your Town program.
* Recruit friends and family to participate.
* Donate to the team.

Here are just some of the cities where Team Gluten-Free™ participants will be running in 2008: Salt Lake City, Lake Tahoe, Los Angeles, San Diego, Long Beach, Phoenix, St. Louis, Fargo, Duluth, Dallas, Birmingham, Austin, Long Branch (NJ), Lake Placid, Virginia Beach, Columbus, Knoxville, Nashville, and Cincinnati.

Please visit the Team Gluten-Free™ website for more information about joining a running team or bringing Team Gluten-Free™ to your town!

http://www.teamglutenfree.org/