For over five decades, Camp Venture has been a cherished part of Rockland County summers, offering an inclusive, joyful, and life-changing experience for children and young adults of all abilities. Julie Langdon, Director of Recreational Services, has the privilege of leading this beloved program, helping Camp Venture be the welcoming, vibrant space that our campers, families, and staff love.
My journey with Venture Together started unexpectedly. After graduating from law school and passing the bar exam, I was looking for a temporary job to bridge the gap before starting my legal career. That was nearly 30 years ago.
I started working at Venture Together in January of 1995 and never left. I fell in love with the people, not only the ones I worked with, but the ones I worked for. The individuals residing at Venture East and their families became like family to me.
Over the years, I’ve filled a variety of roles, starting as a Direct Support Professional to Residential Supervisor, and now Director of Recreational Services. Today, I oversee Camp Venture, the equestrian program, and recreation across our residential programs., I couldn’t be more proud to be part of the Venture community.
An Exciting 56th Season at Camp Venture
As we kick off Camp Venture’s 56th season on June 30th, my team and I are excited to create a summer full of unforgettable memories.
Some of our featured events include a magician, Charlie the Bubble Guy returning, Rockademy performing again, and bringing back our music program by popular demand. There’s something special planned every week, ranging from carnival day, luau, theme days, and more!
A typical day at Camp Venture includes a rotating schedule of activities like swimming, arts and crafts, science, sports, music, and games. The schedule is flexible enough to adapt to weather or special events, but structured enough to provide the consistency that many of our campers appreciate.
Creating a Community Where Everyone Belongs
Camp Venture is so much more than just its activities, with our commitment to creating a joyful, inclusive community at the heart of everything we do.
Our staff go above and beyond to make sure the activities are inclusive. Not everyone likes every activity, and that’s okay. We meet campers where they’re at, and we adjust and support each camper based on their interests and needs.
With many staff members having started as counselors themselves, the team brings years of firsthand experience to the table, ensuring each activity is fun and accessible for all abilities.
The camp’s integrated environment also helps each camper learn from one another and build empathy, bringing together children and young adults of all abilities. They bond and grow in a way they might not otherwise, and those friendships are often what campers cherish the most.
Looking Ahead
As we start camp on Monday, June 30, I find myself reflecting on what I hope every camper and staff member takes away from Camp Venture.
For the staff, I hope they’re proud of the difference they’ve made and how they’re growing from it. For the campers, I hope it’s a chance to develop, achieve their personal goals, connect, and feel excited about coming back next year.
When I think about how to sum up Camp Venture in just three words, it’s easy:
Fun, Joyful, Family.
That’s what Camp Venture has been to me, and I hope it becomes that for everyone who joins our camp this summer.
