Central Oklahoma Camp and Conference Center

PROJECT PURPOSE

Central Oklahoma Camp and Conference Center, is proposing a shovel-ready, turn-key, transformational project that will impact the economy of middle Oklahoma -- as well as support Oklahomans with disabilities across the state. This proposal consists of four main objectives that will make Central Oklahoma Camp and Conference Center and the city of Guthrie the region?s premier destination for recreation opportunities and as an event venue for individuals with disabilities. This project would: 1. Regional Development: pave roads allowing for access of emergency vehicles necessary for the vulnerable population it serves, but also creating opportunity for the infrastructure to support housing developments to impact the economy of Guthrie and the surrounding region; 2. Tourism: improve the facilities of the Central Oklahoma Camp and Conference Center to include conference-style lodge and hotel-style rooms for events, conferences, and bring increased tourism activity to the Guthrie area; 3. Disability Services: increased ADA compliant lodging capacity enables Central Oklahoma Camp and Conference Center to serve more Oklahomans with disabilities through its existing programs and allows the creation of new and innovative programs and services. The proposed upgrades will make Central Oklahoma Camp and Conference Center the only facility of its kind in the state of Oklahoma; 4. Community Partnerships: Central Oklahoma Camp and Conference Center currently collaborates almost 30 community partners and nonprofits. The proposed projects will allow Camp to become a hub of activity collaboration for more Oklahoma organizations seeking event space and new program opportunities.

EVIDENCE

Central Oklahoma Camp and Conference Center serves people with disabilities from across the state of Oklahoma. This is a diverse population that is often at a higher risk for severe illnesses and requires more support services and equipment than able-bodied citizens. The Department of Tourism and Chamber of Commerce have recognized that improving the camp facilities increases the options for accessible event space for small conferences and events in the area. The roads surrounding the camp and through the grounds will not accommodate an emergency vehicle, and the medical equipment on site is not keeping up with the demands of what this population needs. Assessments to validate this project have come from: fire marshals, city officials, architectural firms, evaluation of participants, evidence based program evaluation, and the board of directors. Central Oklahoma Camp and Conference Center is an accredited facility by the American Camping Association which is also a source for standards of care and program development.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

The COVID-19 pandemic hit our state hard; and few suffered more than our children and our citizens with disabilities and their families. Disabled dependents were not able to access support services during the quarantine, which increased demand on parents and caregivers. Central Oklahoma Camp and Conference Center annually provides families with 36,250 hours of respite care every year. This saves Oklahoma $1,812,500 in care-related services for people with disabilities. With the camp unable to provide programming during COVID-19, these services were absorbed by state agencies and family members which were already strapped to provide additional support. 74% of parents reported that their child lost access to at least one therapy or education service. Parents and caregivers for people with disabilities were additionally challenged to provide care at home to a person with disabilities while also striving to keep a job.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

Project performance will be measured against the timelines for the completion of the construction project ; the on-going long-term community impact will be measured with regular program evaluation.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

Able to continue operation without additional funding from the State of Oklahoma