A Legacy of Lakeside Summers

Summer camp has been part of Manitoba Possible’s history since our begging. Nearly 75 years later, those early summers on the shores of Lake Winnipeg continue to shape our inclusive summer camps—rooted in the same purpose: access, inclusion, and belonging.

Campers on the shores of Lake Winnipeg 1968. Manitoba Possible ran summer camps near Gimli for 40 years before moving to community-based summer camps.

1921: A Place by the Lake

The Lakeside Fresh Air Camp for Children was founded in 1921. A traditional summer camp setting, focused on outdoor activities, was built on the West side of Lake Winnipeg near Camp Morton.

1953: Inclusive Summer Camps Begin

In 1953, Manitoba Possible (then the Society for Crippled Children) began renting space at the camp each summer, focused on creating opportunities for children with disabilities to experience overnight camp. The camp quickly expanded to provide programs for all ages.

1974: A New Home

In June 1974, we broke ground on a new a new, accessible camp located one mile south of the original Lakeside Camp site. The seven-acre camp opened in 1975 and included a central lodge, an indoor swimming pool, and several smaller camper cottages.

Early supporters included many of the organizations who continue to make our recreation programs possible: Winnipeg Kinsmen, Easter Seals, and United Way Winnipeg.

1980s - 1990s: A Shift in Approach

By the mid-1980s, Manitoba Possible (then Society for Manitobans with Disabilities) began moving toward a community-integrated model of summer camp. The camp was sold in 1993.

Then. Now. Next

Today, thanks to the generous support of our donors, Manitoba Possible continues to deliver and expand inclusive summer camps built on decades of learning and leadership. From outdoor adventures to sledge hockey and overnight programs for Deaf and hard of hearing children, every activity is designed to accommodate and celebrate diverse abilities and interests, ensuring that every camper feels welcomed and supported.