Twenty years ago, in 1997, Tom and Holly Forney purchased 20 acres of coastal land here in South Texas to create a place where their family could enjoy the outdoors. This vision for family outings eventually blossomed, and the Forneys felt called to share the land with others. Since 2006, Camp Aranzazu—a world built for belonging—has hosted more than 30,500 campers and staff.
Camp Aranzazu strives for its mission of cultivating belonging for campers of all ages by creating accessible, empowering and intentional camp experiences in a coastal environment. Campers engage in classic activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, archery, sailing and special animal experiences, all designed to support their emotional and social well-being.
“That is our big goal,” President and CEO Kurt Podeszwa shared. “We want our campers to be able to come to camp and do things that other kids are able to do, [activities] they might not be able to [do] because of their disability or because of their chronic illness—but because we’re accessible, they find a place where they can do those typical camp activities. They can go sailing on the bay, they can go fishing, climb a rock wall.”
Campers often arrive believing they need assistance or cannot participate in certain activities. Once at camp, they discover they can accomplish these activities on their own, growing their independence at home and gaining valuable skills.
“Many of our campers, because of their disability or because of their chronic illness, have a lot of choices made for them. And when they come to camp, they get that choice, but then they are celebrated at whatever choice they make, and I think that’s part of where the belonging comes from,” Podeszwa said.
Camp gives parents a chance to relax and recharge while their child discovers what they can do on their own. Aranzazu also hosts family camps, weekends when families get to see their children recreate and have fun.
The benefits extend far beyond campers and their families to the wider community, demonstrating the value of inclusivity. By showing what is possible when people come together with a shared vision, Camp Aranzazu highlights the value and importance of belonging, with the hope of inspiring inclusivity in other places, too.
As Camp Aranzazu celebrates 20 years of service, it looks toward the future with plans to expand with indoor spaces, interpretive trails and a multipurpose building, while continuing to deepen community involvement. The camp’s journey shows that when inclusion and opportunity come together, every camper can find a place where they truly belong.
Contact: camparanzazu.org | 361.727.0800
