EmpowHer Camp
A Yearlong Mentorship Program for Disabled Girls and Feminine-Aligned Youth
EmpowHer Camp Applications
are CLOSED!
We are not currently looking for disabled young women and nonbinary teenagers, but check back towards the end of 2026 for applications for the Class of 2028 or email camp@disabilityempowhernetwork.org to express interest or ask for more information.
What Is EmpowHer Camp?
EmpowHer Camp is a year-long program for youth with disabilities comprised of a week-long wilderness camping trip, a self-led community impact project focused on emergency preparedness and response that is completed across a year, and a leadership reunion trip in Washington, D.C. the following summer. More than that, EmpowHer Camp is an opportunity for disabled young women and nonbinary people to connect with each other while developing independence, confidence, and leadership skills.
Why Join EmpowHer Camp?
Participants in our program, which we call Young Leaders, are given the space and support to learn basic survival skills, practice leadership and team work, build confidence and gain independent living skills. They are connected with other youth with disabilities navigating similar life transitions and receive 1-on-1 mentorship from successful disabled women and nonbinary people. Young Leaders are encouraged to plan for the future and change the world while they do it.
Who Can Apply?
EmpowHer Camp is for disabled girls and feminine-aligned youth ages 13-18. We also accept applicants older than 18 if they are still in high school. Our program includes individuals with all types of disabilities.
How can I Apply?
Applications are closed and will re-open in late 2026. Check out the link above to see what the application generally entails. *Note that the application has sections for parents/guardians to complete separately and for the potential participant to complete separately. Please bear that in mind when setting aside time to complete the application.
The Program
Wilderness Camping Trip
EmpowHer Camp begins with a week camping in the mountains, where participants learn survival, leadership, and independent living skills. At camp, young leaders are matched with their mentors and make lasting memories around the campfire.
Community Project
After the camping trip, each participant will work on a year-long community project that will grow their disability advocacy, communication, and leadership skills. Mentors will support their young leader mentees throughout this project.
D.C. Leadership Trip
After a year of mentorship and working on impactful projects, young leaders and their mentors reunite in Washington, D.C. for a week of building their leadership skills, connecting with disabled women leaders, advocacy, and some sightseeing in D.C.
Alumni Network
EmpowHer Camp's impact on participants lasts long after the year of programming. All graduates of EmpowHer Camp join our Alumni Network, where we continue to support each alumni and provide educational and fun workshops and events. We have supported alumni in their pursuit of college, jobs, scholarships, and more.
"EmpowHer Camp has opened many doors for me and given me a community of young disabled women who are ambitious and goal-driven."
— Participant in the Class of 2025
“I’ve learned that disabled women have more power than we realize and that we shouldn’t say sorry to anyone for being different or doing things differently than others.”
— Participant in the Class of 2025
"She came back from camp feeling empowered about who she is and knowing it's ok to do things that might look different than other people. Everyone has noticed the maturity that has happened in her since starting EmpowHer Camp!"
— Parent
Meet the Class of 2027
We have nine incredible young leaders in the Class of 2027. Learn about the amazing young disabled people in this group & help support their fundraising here.
EmpowHer Camp Alumni
The first EmpowHer Camp (the Class of 2022) started in the summer of 2021, and we are so proud of the accomplishments and growth of each class. Learn more about our EmpowHer Camp graduates below.
Class of 2026
Class of 2025
Class of 2024
Class of 2023
Class of 2022