Adventure Together. Memories Forever.

Camp Illinek

About Family Camp

The Alma Buhnerkempe Memorial Family Camp is a one-day family camp experience designed to bring special needs families together through outdoor recreation, hands-on activities, and meaningful community connections.

Our goal is simple: create an inclusive, welcoming environment where families can unplug, explore, and make lasting memories together.

2026 Family Camp

Saturday, July 18, 2026 | 10:00am - 6:00pm

Camp Illinek | 6610 Iron Bridge Rd, Chatham, IL 62629

From an idea... to a tradition.

Our hearts are so full.

This weekend, families gathered for the very first Alma Buhnerkempe Memorial Family Camp, and what began as a dream became something so much bigger than we ever imagined.

We watched campers try new things, siblings laugh together, parents connect with other families who truly understand, volunteers pour their hearts into serving, and friendships begin that we hope will last for years to come.

There were crafts, sports, hugs, happy tears, and countless little moments that reminded us exactly why this camp mattered.

This day was created in memory of Alma, whose kindness and generosity continue to make an incredible impact. We hope she would be proud to see families finding joy, belonging, and community in the place that bears her name.

To every camper, parent, sibling, volunteer, sponsor, donor, and supporter—

Thank you.

Thank you for believing in this vision before it even existed. Thank you for showing up with open hearts. Thank you for helping create a place where every family could simply be themselves.

This wasn't just our first camp.

It was the beginning of a tradition.

Here's to many more years of laughter, adventure, and reminding families that everyone belongs.

Thank you to our generous sponsors!

Summit Sponsor

Compass Sponsor

Trailblazer Sponsor

Campfire Sponsor

Camp Apparel Sponsor

Canteen Sponsor

Family Welcome Sponsor

Family Camp Sponsor

S’more Memories Donors

Thomas Barber

AJ Fuller

Lisa Hartzler

Lawrence Weber

Barb Buhnerkempe

Debra Lorenson

Alma Buhnerkempe

The KASE Project lost a member of our TKP family in the tragic events at YNOT in Chatham, IL on April 28, 2025.

Alma Buhnerkempe began attending TKP events as “Will’s sister,” but quickly became an integral beacon of light, full of energy and the willingness to assist in any way she was allowed. She proudly donned her FLASH volunteer shirt at soccer, basketball, and t-ball practices, and was always eager to be in charge of ‘red light, green light.’ Alma also participated in our SIBS program, cracking jokes and holding her own as the only girl in the group.

Her absence is painfully obvious, but we strive each day to Live Like Alma. She was kind and silly and made the most of each day.

We hope that this family camp honors her memory as we enjoy time outdoors with those we love most.

Have questions about Camp?

Contact us!