Listen CI Camp - Listen Foundation Program Transparent

Camp History

Since its founding in 2001, this program has supported over 5,900 campers, enabling cochlear implant children to achieve a life of independence in a world of listening and spoken language.

With your support, the June 2026 session will expand capacity by 50%.
Please visit our Donations page and help us serve more families.

Donate to Camp

Check out the Camp Photo Album!

Camp provides the hope, confidence, and knowledge that lead to better educational, language, and social emotional outcomes. Through recreational activities, peer mentoring, and educational workshops, participants gain the confidence and skills needed to navigate the CI journey.

Dr. David Kelsall, Camp Founder

Listen to Dr. Kelsall, the camp’s founder, and Louanne Saraga Walters discussing camp’s history

Galoob Family 2006

Meet the Galoobs

From their first year as one of camp’s founding families to their ongoing service as volunteers, the Galoobs spent more than a decade inspiring and mentoring countless children and parents as they helped shape the heart and spirit that define Listen CI Camp today. CLICK HERE to read the Galoobs’ inspiring story.

See How We’ve Grown!

2001

First CNI Cochlear Kids Camp with 25 Families

2002

First Camp Director Hired – Grew to 61 Families

2004

Camp Expanded to Two Sessions

2007

Families First Grouped by Age of CI Child

2010

Camp Alumni Started Returning as Volunteers

2013

First Year in Rams Horn Lodge with 68 Families

2018

CNI Closed After Camp – Listen Foundation Adopted the Program

2019

Renamed Cochlear Implant Family Camp

2020

Cancelled due to COVID

2021

20th Anniversary Celebration

2023

Renamed Listen CI Camp – Expanded to 78 Families

2024

Registration Filled in Under 1 Minute – 49 Families Waitlisted

2025

25th Anniversary Celebration

2026

With Your Support,Camp Will Expand to Serve 99 Families

“What a unique, fun, valuable, inspiring experience. I didn’t realize how much I needed to meet other CI families.” -2019 Camper

“For our CI daughter to be among so many other children with implants as opposed to being the only one in her daily life is a game changer for her confidence, independence, and emotional health.” -2021 Camper

“My son said, “I’ve finally found my people.” This camp was filled with love and joy. We will be back and can’t thank you enough for the joy you have given our family.” -2022 Camper

“CI camp… fosters a strong sense of community where there are no questions of acceptance or inclusion. It is a wonderful experience.” -2023 Camper

“This camp has given our child a chance to grow in confidence and advocacy.” -2024 Camper

“The confidence she gained at camp translated into confidence at home – it was subtle at first, but it was like she was working a new muscle and was slowly seeing the benefits of building on this newfound strength every day. Her friendships have grown, but above all else, her self-assuredness and confidence are noticeably improved. She has more pride in herself as a person and also pride in her CIs, even asking to do a STEM project on CIs that she presented to her entire class.” -2025 Camper