Youth Programs
Camp Warren Jyrch
Established in 1973, Camp Warren Jyrch is an annual one-week overnight camp for individuals with hereditary symptomatic bleeding disorders. It is named after Warren C. Jyrch, the first person with hemophilia to successfully undergo open-heart surgery in Illinois. A program of BDAI, Camp Warren Jyrch serves as a symbol of hope for a positive future for all who are affected by hereditary bleeding disorders. The camp has served nearly 2000 campers over the years, many of whom have participated in the Counselor-In-Training program and now serve as part of the senior camp staff.
The mission of camp is
to assist campers by constructively incorporating their bleeding disorders into their self-concepts and lifestyles,
to nurture self-confidence and foster pride, hope, and personal growth as well as to provide an opportunity to establish peer relationships, and
to empower and motivate individuals with bleeding disorders to seek a life of freedom and independence that is not limited by their chronic conditions.
Young Adult Program
For ages 15 to 22, this group is about young adults affected by bleeding disorders coming together to empower each other, learn to advocate, and grow into leaders both within the bleeding disorders community and in their daily lives.
Marcus Mclure Family Camp
Provide insight on what you loved about family camp in the past because in 2024 we are bringing family camp back!
Every year, BDAI hosts the Marcus Mclure Family Camp for new campers between the ages of 6 and 10 years old and their family. This fun-filled weekend of camp activities allows the whole family the opportunity to "try-out" bleeding disorders camp. This is an excellent way for kids to get a feel for camp before being away for a week on their own. It also gives parents peace of mind by observing how camp is run, and they are able to meet and interact with other families. We hope you and your new camper join us for Family Camp next year!