Camp ASCCA: The Podcast

In this latest episode, we talk with Chad Coltrane, President and CEO of Victory Junction! Chad has an extensive background in working with people with disabilities and complex medical needs.His journey began when he joined Pi Kappa Phi, whose philanthropy is The Ability Experience. Through the organization, he participated in Journey of Hope, a cross-country bike ride benefiting individuals with disabilities.Tune in to hear more about Chad's journey and the work he continues to do to make a difference in the lives of others!

In this episode of the Camp ASCCA Podcast, we sit down with Camp Director Matt Rickman and his wife, Dana Rickman, Director of Development, to reflect on their 28 years at Camp ASCCA.They share what Camp has meant to them over the years, their favorite Camp ASCCA memories, and what it's like to work alongside your spouse. They also talk about raising their children at Camp and how this special place has become such an important part of their family's story.For Matt and Dana, Camp ASCCA is more than a job; it's a place they've called home for 28 years. Join us as they share the memories, experiences, and people that have made Camp such a meaningful part of their lives.

Phil Martin, a former Camp ASCCA staff member and aquatics professional, reflects on his time at ASCCA and the unforgettable summers he spent there. Over the years, Phil has carried with him countless memories and experiences that were life-changing, not only for him but for the many people whose lives he touched along the way. Today, he runs The Sailing Center in Macon, Georgia, where his passion for adaptive aquatics continues to make a difference and create opportunities for people of all abilities.

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Davis, a Camp ASCCA camper of 10 years. Over the past decade, Jason has watched Camp ASCCA grow and evolve, but one thing has remained the same: it's a place where he is seen and heard for who he is, not defined by his disability.We talk about Jason's favorite camp memories, what Camp ASCCA means to him, the relationships he's built over the years, and so much more.

Before Camp ASCCA became the place so many know and love today, there were people who believed in its mission from the very beginning. In this episode, we sit down with Jerry and Cheryl Bynum to reflect on the early days of Camp ASCCA, the challenges and triumphs of building a camp unlike any other, and the memories that have stayed with them over the last 50 years.

Lynne Stokley, CEO of Easterseals Alabama, joins our latest episode to share more about Easterseals and its incredible affiliates. As Easterseals Alabama celebrates its 100th anniversary, we reflect on the lasting legacy they've built over the past century and the impact they will continue to make for generations to come. Through its affiliates, Easterseals Alabama serves individuals and families across the state, creating opportunities, connection, and support for so many. We're grateful to be part of the Easterseals family and look forward to all that's ahead. 

Tom Collier and Judy Williams, two members of the very first Camp ASCCA staff back in 1976, take us on a trip down memory lane. A lot has changed over the past 50 years, but at its heart, Camp is still the same, built on people, connection, socialization, and a true sense of belonging.Whether you spend a single day at Camp ASCCA or a lifetime, everyone leaves with a piece of it that stays with them forever. We're so grateful to Tom and Judy, not only for helping lay the foundation all those years ago, but for the continued love and support they still show ASCCA today. 

April Buchannon Turner is a Camp ASCCA staff alumna and the current State Head Injury Coordinator at ADRS. April has dedicated her entire career to serving individuals with TBIs and has accomplished incredible things. ADRS is the state's lead agency for coordinating services for Alabamians with TBIs. In this episode, April shares more about her pivotal summer at Camp ASCCA and the importance of learning to put others' needs before your own.

Jacob Van Laan, a former Camp ASCCA staff member, spent many summers at Camp during some of the most formative years of his life. Now a software developer, devoted husband, and father, Jacob never imagined that his days as a counselor would one day lead him back to ASCCA as a camper parent. Today, he credits Camp ASCCA with saving his son's life. This is the impact of a lifetime.

Danielle Peters—Occupational Therapist and owner of BlueBird Pediatric Therapy Services—joins us this episode to share her journey from Camp ASCCA summer staff member to Occupational Therapist. What began as a simple summer job quickly opened the door to the world of disability care and sparked a lifelong calling.BlueBird Pediatric Therapy Services offers occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, and feeding services for children ages 0–18. Danielle reflects on discovering her “why,” the impact of inclusive experiences, and how Camp ASCCA shaped her passion for serving children with disabilities.Listen in to learn more about what occupational therapy is, the services BlueBird Pediatric Therapy provides, and a journey rooted in inclusion, purpose, and heart.