Expansion of Diabetes Sports Camps

Details

Southern Alberta

I Challenge Diabetes

The Idea

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a lifelong condition, and without proper management, its consequences can be severe. Many children and youth living with T1D face barriers to participating in recreational activities due to concerns about safety, a lack of understanding, and environments that are not equipped to support their needs. To address this gap, we created our Diabetes Sports Camps—a program designed to give young people with T1D safe, inclusive access to sport while building critical physical, emotional and self-management skills for lifelong well-being.

Led by trained staff, our camps use experiential learning to promote physical literacy, healthy habits, and confidence—all while teaching practical diabetes self-management. As campers become more comfortable managing their diabetes during physical activity, they gain increased independence and reduced anxiety, empowering them to take greater ownership of their health both on and off the field.

Beyond the physical benefits, these camps are designed to support youth mental health. Living with a chronic illness like T1D can often lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and stigma—especially during childhood and adolescence. Our camps create a supportive, understanding environment where youth can connect with peers who share similar experiences, participate in open discussions about diabetes-related challenges, and develop strategies for overcoming barriers. These shared experiences help to build resilience, reduce stigma, improve self-esteem, and foster a strong sense of community and belonging.

Our goal is to create lasting, positive outcomes across both physical and mental health domains for youth living with Type 1 diabetes. Our camps encourage healthier lifestyle habits and higher levels of physical activity, while also helping to reduce stress and anxiety related to living with a chronic condition. Overall, the program fosters the motivation and tools needed to maintain long-term physical and mental well-being. In 2025, 98% reported the camp provided effective opportunities to learn about diabetes management strategies and skills and 75% reported having increased self-esteem after attending camp.

With your support, we are poised to significantly expand our program delivery. In 2024, we successfully doubled our camp offerings to two weeks. Building on this momentum, we are partnering with WinSport to deliver six weeks of Diabetes Sports Camps in 2026 at WinSport Canada Olympic Park in Calgary.

Who Will Benefit?

Running throughout the summer, these camps will serve over 100 children and youth aged 5–15 living with Type 1 diabetes, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and support they need to thrive—physically, emotionally, and socially. The impact, however, extends far beyond the campers themselves. Families benefit from peace of mind knowing their children are in a safe, supportive environment where staff understand the complexities of T1D. Parents and caregivers often report increased confidence in their child’s ability to manage their condition independently. Siblings and extended family members also experience a ripple effect, as improved self-management and mental well-being in the camper can ease household stress.

As these young people grow, they carry forward not only improved health and confidence, but also a sense of community and advocacy that can influence schools, sports teams, and broader social circles. Ultimately, the camps help create a more inclusive, informed, and empowered network of children, families, and community members who are better equipped to navigate life with Type 1 diabetes.