At Inclusion Action in Ontario (IAO), our work is deeply rooted in the stories of families who have long advocated for inclusion not as an ideal, but as a right.
Among these stories is that of Matthew Dolmage.
Matthew’s journey to finding belonging at camp was not straightforward. His parents, Marilyn and Jim, met while working at a summer camp themselves, where they experienced firsthand the joy and connection that camp can bring. Like many families, they hoped their own children would one day share in that same experience.
But for Matthew, that path was not easy.
In the mid-1980s, opportunities for children with disabilities to attend summer camp were limited and often segregated. Early attempts to find the right fit were discouraging. Programs that were intended to support children with disabilities sometimes fell short in understanding Matthew’s needs or fully including him in the camp experience.
Through their advocacy and involvement in what is now Inclusion Action in Ontario, the Dolmage family connected with others who shared a vision for inclusion. This led them to Reach for the Rainbow, an organization working to create opportunities for children of all abilities to attend camp together.
It was through this pathway that Matthew was introduced to Camp Brébeuf.
Finding the Right Place
From the very beginning, Camp Brébeuf felt different.
There were no overwhelming forms or hesitation, just a willingness to listen, to understand, and to welcome Matthew as he was. His family shared what support he needed, and the camp responded with openness and respect.
Set among rolling hills in Halton, Camp Brébeuf may not have stood out for its scenery, but it stood out for something far more important: its culture.
Counsellors created an environment where fun, connection, and belonging were at the centre of everything. Many had once been campers themselves, carrying forward a tradition of inclusion that felt natural rather than forced.
Even after earlier difficult experiences, Matthew wanted to stay.
And more importantly he wanted to go back.
Moments That Matter
Matthew’s summers at camp were filled with moments that continue to live on in the memories of his family.
Counsellors created scrapbooks filled with polaroid photos and handwritten notes capturing friendships, laughter, and everyday joy. These became a way for Matthew and his family to revisit his experiences long after summer had ended.
They remember seeing photos of Matthew with a dirt-smudged face, wearing another camper’s shirt, fully immersed in camp life.
They remember being told how often he smiled.
At camp, Matthew expressed himself in ways that others hadn’t always had the opportunity or patience to see. He made choices, asserted his preferences, and connected with others on his own terms. While he avoided the swimming pool, he found joy in music, playing songs on his keyboard and sharing in the rhythms of camp life.
He explored the camp grounds, navigating challenging terrain in his wheelchair, and especially loved reaching “the point”, a hill overlooking the countryside. For Matthew, this was more than just a view. It was a sense of freedom – independence from his parents, and belonging among his friends.
In his power wheelchair, he even led other campers in games, forming connections through shared experiences and leadership.
Friendship and Impact
One of the most meaningful relationships Matthew formed at camp was with a support worker, Toran Seggie.
Their connection reflected the heart of inclusive environments, where relationships are built on mutual respect, understanding, and genuine care. Toran went on to become a valued Educational Assistant, and his impact, like Matthew’s, continues to be remembered.
At Camp Brébeuf, Matthew was not simply accommodated, he was admired.
He was recognized as “Camper of the Week” multiple times, a reflection of the joy, leadership, and presence he brought to the community. These experiences helped build his confidence and reinforced something his family had always known: Matthew had so much to contribute.
A Lasting Legacy
Matthew’s time at camp extended far beyond the summer months.
It strengthened his family’s advocacy for inclusive education, meaningful employment opportunities, and greater independence. It helped shape a future where Matthew could live more fully in his community, including having his own apartment within the family home.
Most importantly, Camp Brébeuf showed what is possible when inclusion is done right.
It demonstrated that belonging is not about fitting into existing spaces, it is about creating spaces where everyone is valued, supported, and celebrated.
Moving Forward Together
Matthew’s story continues to inspire the work we do today.
Through the Matthew Dolmage Fund, IAO is proud to support inclusive camping experiences at Camp Brébeuf, ensuring that more children can experience the same sense of joy, connection, and belonging.
We hope this story encourages both families and camp providers.
Because when children of all abilities are welcomed into shared spaces, we don’t just create better summers, we create stronger communities, deeper understanding, and more inclusive futures for everyone.
Inclusive recreation does more than provide access.
It re-creates possibility.
