History
An Unchanging Commitment to Children
Beginning as a "fresh air" camp in 1928, Jameson Camp has a rich history of serving children. From our first decades when "frail" boys and girls learned about good nutrition to our present focus on children’s social, behavioral and emotional challenges, our commitment has been unchanging - making a difference in the lives of boys and girls, equipping them for productive, responsible lives.
Responding to a nation-wide concern for children’s health and the fear of TB in the 1920’s, Indianapolis leaders and health care workers envisioned a "fresh air" camp. In 1928 the Tuberculosis Association Fresh Air Camp served its first 50 children. Julia Jameson was the main proponent of the camp and because of her endless passion for the camp, upon her death in 1935, the camp was renamed Julia Jameson Nutrition Camp for Frail Children.
In 1985 the camp officially changed its name to Jameson Camp, Inc. and redirected its mission to serving at-risk youth.
In 2006 we replaced our original headquarters with a beautiful new center, lodge, health center, and a nature and arts and crafts center. In addition to providing enhanced program facilities, these buildings provide new opportunities to serve as a community partner.
The last twenty years has seen Jameson Camp evolve to meet the needs of kids and families in the Indianapolis area. True to its origins, Jameson continues to serve children with health needs. Responding to an increasing concern for childhood obesity, we launched a Wellness Camp in 2006, a creative program that utilizes camp to teach healthy choices in fitness and nutrition. Our Camp Tataya Mato� for children affected by HIV/AIDS is the only residential camp to these special children in Indiana.
Jameson’s one hundred acres of meadows, woods and streams are a sanctuary and outdoor classroom in the midst of the city. Our new outdoor education program assists school children to learn about nature and the environment in a natural setting, meeting state science standards while experiencing a “taste of camp.�
Grateful for our heritage and excited about our future, we are committed to being the best camp and community partner possible. We will continue to evaluate and enhance our programming so that children will have a great and enriching experience.
