WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG)- Camp Red, a Minnesota-based nonprofit that provides a healing program for burn survivors and their families, is considering opening a second camp location at Joy Ranch near Watertown. Representatives from the organization recently visited the facility to assess its potential as a new site.

Camp Red’s Director is Jeff Larson, and health professional is Angie Whitley. The potential expansion comes as the camp, which currently operates at Camp Knutson in Crosslake, Minnesota, has outgrown its current capacity.

Larson talks about first getting involved.

Angie Whitley talks about the camp’s philosophy.

Larson explained that the organization’s mission is to provide a “real healing experience” for anyone impacted by the trauma of a burn incident, not just the individual burn survivor. This includes parents and siblings who often carry the emotional weight of the event. The camp’s activities, from archery and nature walks to a waterfront where campers can feel comfortable in their skin, are designed to help families rebuild and reconnect.

With the help of his community and fellow firefighters, he created a healing center and later, Camp Red. The camp’s name, RED, stands for “Realize Every Dream.”

Whitley, a former burn unit nurse, was also instrumental in the camp’s early days. Her connection to the cause, which includes a story about how her son bonded with a young burn survivor from Aberdeen, has been a driving force behind her commitment. She noted that the camp creates a “community where everyone gets it,” allowing families to feel a sense of normalcy and belonging.

Joy Nelson, the founder of Joy Ranch, said that the ranch’s mission aligns perfectly with Camp Red’s goals.

If the partnership moves forward, Larson noted that getting the word out about their support services to rural areas is a constant challenge, and a new location in South Dakota could help with that.