Valley / Coast Region

A summer at Camp Taloali

Did you want to go to camp when you were a kid? Have you visited or helped at Camp Taloali? "Ta-low-a-lee" means "Bird Singing" borrowed from the native Americans. At Camp "Bird Singing" there are 111 acres of beauty on the Santiam River, 16 miles east of Salem on Hwy 22: A non-profit, incorporated camp for youth who are deaf or hard of hearing.

The cabins, sports fields, swimming pool with showers, the pavilion with a huge dinning room and a roomy kitchen, plus a new craft hall and a health/office complex complete the picture.

Youths, 9-18 years old, with hearing challenges, love to be here. Sometimes a hearing sibling is allowed to tag along, if there is a space. Every camper has the opportunity to interact, with others who share their disability, in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Teaching does take place, in the context of where or when the skill is needed whether it is participating in soccer, Frisbee, volleyball, basketball, archery, arts and crafts, theater, communication and camping all emphasizing outdoor skills, environmental awareness, coping skills and leadership.

There is a horse riding program, rope courses, campfires, plus a 12+ foot totem pole is built and decorated, yearly, by the older campers and counselors in training.

When any child gets to be outside with their friends, in a place that is serene, safe and nurturing, they grow in confidence, ability and the challenges develop strong character traits.

All of the camp counselors and staff are screened, selected and trained every year, the camp is directed by citizens that are deaf or hard of hearing, the Lions Clubs of Oregon and professionals in the fields of social work, recreation and education.

Lions help build, clean, donate, direct and love Camp Taloali and these wonderful kids. And you should see those magnificent TOTEMS!