Call of the wild captivates Camp Munroe

Oohs, awws and a few shrieks echoed through the Munroe-Meyer Institute’s gymnasium.

A hedgehog, kangaroo and ball python drew the gasps, with the kangaroo getting the biggest response.

The trio — and a few other critters — visited MMI recently during a session of Camp Munroe, MMI’s recreational day camp for children and youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

During each one-week session, campers — who range in age between 3 and 21 — take part in activities such as swimming, dancing, art, cooking and games. Special guests, like the visit from animals at Wildlife Encounters come once a week.

The camp, in its 42^nd year, serves more than 230 attendees over seven weeks. Campers get to bond with each other, but also with recreational therapy staff and volunteers, said Kamisha Duncan, adaptive therapy specialist.

Adaptive therapy specialist Kamisha Duncan assembled this year’s entertainment schedule, which also includes Kona Ice and a dinosaur presentation. Seeing smiles on campers’ faces during those sessions is a highlight for MMI volunteers and staff, she said.

“It’s so much fun, and there’s so much joy,” Duncan said.

Wildlife Encounters is always a crowd favorite, MMI camp organizers said.

During the group’s most recent visit, campers were able to gently pet each animal, as Wildlife Encounters spokeswoman Barb Whittamore carried them around the gym. Whittamore shared fun facts about each animal and answered questions from campers.

Campers eagerly greeted each new visitor. “Hi, Biscuit!” they shouted as Whittamore brought out an armadillo.

Some opted not to touch the animals, politely saying “No, thank you,” as Whittamore approached. The ball python, Lily, drew a number of grimaces and nervous looks as the braver campers ran two fingers down her back.

Tortilla, the tortoise, drew some initial concern: Was she was a snapping turtle? But the relaxed reptile went on to draw big smiles while campers reached for her shell.

Whittamore said her job is incredible, in part because of events like Camp Munroe. MMI campers and other audiences usually can only see some of these animals on TV, she said.

“It’s a blessing that we get to have these ambassador animals,” she said. “We get to let campers get up close and personal and offer that sensory feeling. I love that I get the chance to give the campers some joy.”