This summer marked an exciting new chapter for Camp Neeka as Josselyn expanded its therapeutic day camp to three locations for the first time—Waukegan, Northbrook, and Highland Park—to meet the growing need for children’s mental health services.
The Waukegan session, held June 4–July 3 at Oakdale Elementary School, recently concluded after welcoming 68 campers. Across all three locations, Camp Neeka is serving a record 193 children this summer, reflecting Josselyn’s continued commitment to making high-quality mental health care more accessible for families.
Camp Neeka continues to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where children ages 7 to 16 build confidence, strengthen relationships, and develop lifelong coping skills through a unique blend of therapeutic programming and traditional summer camp experiences.
Led by licensed therapists and trained mental health professionals, Camp Neeka is grounded in Josselyn’s commitment to providing accessible, high-quality mental health care for every child who needs it.
At the heart of Camp Neeka is the therapeutic curriculum developed by Josselyn’s Director of Mental Health Education, Maggie Nash, LCSW, M.Ed.
“Each summer, Camp Neeka reminds us what is possible when children have a space where they feel safe, supported, and understood. In Waukegan, we watched campers grow in confidence, strengthen friendships, and practice skills they’ll continue using long after camp ends. Seeing those transformations is what makes Camp Neeka so meaningful.”
Throughout the month, campers participated in individual and group therapeutic activities designed to strengthen emotional regulation, communication, self-esteem, and resilience. Alongside therapy groups, campers enjoyed art, movement, outdoor recreation, and memorable field trips that encouraged teamwork, confidence, and connection.
While the Waukegan session has come to a close, summer is still underway at Camp Neeka. Camps are currently taking place through August 7 at:
- Highland Park: Nuestro Josselyn, July 13–August 7, 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
- Northbrook: Northbrook Junior High School, July 13–August 7, 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
As Camp Neeka continues across its remaining locations, Josselyn looks forward to creating even more opportunities for children to build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and experience the joy of belonging in a supportive community.
Learn more about Camp Neeka and Josselyn’s children’s mental health programs at josselyn.org.
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