Grateful doesn't adequately capture our family's appreciation for Camp Jumpstart. Our daughter, who also struggles with an intellectual disability, was given an enormous gift this Summer -- the opportunity to reclaim her sense of self-worth and build life long healthy habits. She was a camper for eight weeks and her personal transformation was remarkable. She gained much more than the 23 pounds she lost -- confidence, discipline, new friends, a set of "tools", and a sunny outlook on life. She is committed to continuing-on with what she's learned at camp and we are supporting her by fully modeling and adopting the same lifestyle. Thank you Jean, Jeremy,,camp staff and counselors -- you are life savers. Jean - your good name is invoked regularly at the kitchen table. To anyone considering this camp: we found this to be a safe and exceptionally well-run organization. Important caveat: Jean expects full engagement not only from the campers but also from parents and siblings as well. That was a deep attraction for us! read more

Camp Jump Start is an absolute blessing to those that attend, as well as the families of the campers. We were feeling desperate and scared...we knew change had to happen for our daughter, truly for all of us in the family....and it needed to happen outside of our home. When we found Camp Jump Start we knew it was our solution. The environment of unyielding encouragement, focus on self awareness, positive emotional mantras and the ability to find resilience in herself has changed her. From the very first phone call after one week, we could hear the change in her voice....the hope in her words. It literally brought us to tears. She left camp after 4 weeks, having lost 20 lbs, but looking like she felt 100 lbs lighter, with a spirit of accomplishment that allowed her to know she could do "it"- whatever it was. Jean and her staff at Camp Jump Start truly care about making change, one child at a time. The mission is clear, unyielding, supportive and successful- in so many more ways than numbers on a scale. They have our continued support, gratefulness and recommendation. read more

My ten year old daughter just completed a summer at Camp Jump Start. If you have a child who is struggling with their weight, this is the place to send them WITHOUT QUESTION. Personally, I have always struggled with weight issues as have many of my brothers and sisters. I wish that Camp Jump Start had been available when I was a child as I think it could have saved me a lifetime of struggles and probably kept me from passing on those same struggles to my child. When my daughter cried out to me one night about her weight and how she hated herself for being ugly and fat, I could not stand by and watch her go down my same path. I looked online until late that night and found lists of several weight loss camps for kids. I requested information from all of them. I talked to several individuals about their camps and programs. When I received a personal reply from CJS's director and I spoke to the director on the phone, I knew that Camp Jump Start was the right place and I didn't need to look further. The program, the commitment of the director, and the philosophy of the camp towards health, well being, and self esteem came across as amazing in that initial correspondence. I just knew this was the right and BEST choice for my child. Although I desperately wanted my child to go, I knew I could not force my daughter to go. When I first told her about the camp, she said no. I asked her to watch one video on You Tube of a former camper speaking of her experience. I told her that if she would just watch it, I would not bring it up again if she wasn't interested. After she watched the video, she decided she wanted to go...not for just one session, but two. It was the best and bravest decision of her young life. She returned from camp with the biggest smile on her face. She lost 17% of her body weight while there but she gained an infinite amount of self-esteem and self-worth. I truly believe she feels beautiful for the first time in her life and I think she feels that there is hope whereas before she saw no hope. Before she went to camp, she was still having accidents at night...almost every night. After having gone to camp, she has had no accidents. Before she went to camp, I had to beg her to get a bath, brush her hair, or go shopping for clothes. I think she had just completely given up on herself. Now that she has returned, she showers willingly, she has taken an interest in her appearance, and she has enjoyed seeing herself as beautiful. She skipped into the clothing store the other day, something that would have been unheard of before CJS. She has become less dependent on me and more reliant on herself. All of the changes are positive and for the better. I couldn't have asked for more. The director, staff, and counselors at CJS are just exceptional. It is clear they aren't doing this for the love of money but for their love of the kids. Unfortunately, my daughter is also having to deal with the divorce of her parents. This issue has been a real struggle for her, but I feel that the camp director's philosophy of "You are who you are, you got what you got, and now you have to deal with it" really helped her put the situation in perspective. I can't say that the road ahead of us will be easy. I'm sure it won't. I don't know how my daughter and I will do going forward, but I know that I have given her the best foundation possible for change. The Camp's name is truly reflective of its mission; it is a jump start. Hopefully it will be a jump start for both my daughter and I. If you are still reading this, I hope it will be a jump start for you and your child. Many Blessings read more

My decision to send my 13 year old daughter to Camp Jump Start was the best decision I have made in my life. Jean (the founder) helped not just my child, but our whole family. I sent my daughter to the 4 week session, but I really wish I had sent her to the 8 week session. In 4 weeks, my daughter lost 20 lbs and has lost another 7 pounds in the one and a half months since she left camp. She makes better food choices (when she left her diet consisted of mainly fast food, ice cream, frozen pizza and mac and cheese!). She would literally not eat, unless it was something she really liked. Now she eats healthy sandwiches, salads, etc... She was forced to try different things at camp and she realized she actually likes a lot of healthier foods. I was never able to get her to change that here. Jean also helped us as a family. Her parental weekly group calls, pushed us to make changes while my daughter was gone. She gave us the strength to be stronger, to make better food choices, and help our child. My husband has lost 20 pounds and I lost 27 in two and a half months! The Camp itself is just beautiful. It is filled with trees and hills and a lake. Just gorgeous. You drive up a hill through the trees to the wooden cabins, mess hall, a pool, lake, etc. It reminds me of the beautiful outdoor summer camps I went to as a child. When I dropped her off, I remembered the excited and fear I had going to summer camp in the woods, as a kid, and how much I loved it and didn't want to leave when it was over. When we arrived, we saw another 70+ kids just like her. Some bigger, some smaller, all nervous, but I could see her future friends. These kids were just like her. Now instead of my kid on the sidelines, not good at sports, not someone the other kids would consider pretty or cool. Finally, she was among her people. Was camp hard? Yes! They worked hard, got lots of exercise. They played sports, swam, did yoga, aerobics, had nutrition classes, (my daughter learned to ride a bike!!), and had group therapy classes based on their particular needs. My daughter worked hard. She learned that she can work hard, exercise, eat healthier and lose weight. She can do all the things she wants too in life and succeed. I think she felt helpless before and didn't know how to change. They were also tough. She couldn't cry her way out of things. Mom gives in, the camp doesn't. So she was forced to succeed and her self confidence improved. Now she knows she can work hard, and mom knows she can too! My daughter still misses the camp experience. She misses being with those kids. She fit in at camp. Everyone was like her. They knew her struggles, they had them too. She still keeps in touch with her camp friends and maybe we will go back next year. Not just for the fitness and healthy eating, but also for the connections and the bonding she had with her people. This camp is a life saver. read more

I don't even know where to start! My daughter was on a downward spiral. I wanted to find something before she was in a situation beyond help. I did a lot of research - and with MANY options on the table (despite the long distance from home) we confidently chose CJS. I felt they would not only provide a safe camp environment, but also the tools for success! My decision was justified on day 1 at the family presentation! Jean, her family and the staff are so completely committed to these children. My daughter and I both have a hard time separating. Jean became like a second mother to her in my absence. Only to find she quite literally did that for every child there. My daughter came home with a wealth of knowledge and determination beyond my expectations. These are life long lessons! She did not just come home with a normal BMI... She came home with pride, a self confidence I had never seen in her before and determination to keep going with it. I am so proud of all the kids that attended, and so truly grateful to Jean and her entire team. read more

My daughter attended Camp Jump Start for 4 weeks in summer of 2018! Our goal was for her to find the self confidence that we knew she had & to learn a healthy lifestyle. She started high school and has the self confidence that I was hoping that she would gain from camp. She has made a lot of new friends & keeps in touch with several of her camp jump start friends (camp family) as well. She joined the cross country team and is running 2-3 miles a day and as a family we have changed our eating lifestyle. What a great experience for her! read more

Camp Jump Start is a game changer for kids and adults alike. My son and nephew attended a couple summers ago and they loved every minute of camp and came home armed with knowledge and tools for success. I highly recommend Camp Jump Start for anybody having difficulty losing weight, especially those young teens and pre-teens. The love overflows from the directors through the student camp counselor to the campers. The campers are empowered with self confidence, knowledge, and support. I stand behind Camp Jump Start and recommend it highly. Henry Mejia, Laredo, Texas read more

Mom says "GREAT CAMP FOR PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL WELL BEING!" I say, "This camp was the best thing that ever happened to me!" I attended camp Jump Start for the 8 week session because I really had a lot to work on! I'm truly thankful to my mom, dad and grandparents for helping me pay for it. In regards to my physical health my labs prior to attending camp were; Insulin level of 28.9, after camp 16.3 total cholesterol 204, after camp 163 HDL 39, after camp 30 LDL 141, after camp 109 Triglycerides 119, after camp 118. I lost 40 pounds in 8 weeks. I still have a little ways to go for my goal weight, but received the education and tools that I needed while at camp jump start to complete my journey towards better health and I feel so amazing! Nothing tastes as good as it feels to be thin! read more

My 17 year old daughter attended Camp Jump Start this past summer. I was so anxious about her attending. She was so excited but I wasn't comfortable leaving her for 4 straight weeks. She did amazing! She loved every minute of it! I looked forward to her phone calls, just to hear the excitement in her voice. She has helped our family eat healthier and live healthier. It's had an impact on our entire family life! She learned life changing lessons and continues to implement them every day. Her self esteem has increased tremendously and she is more comfortable in her own skin. I give all the credit to Camp Jump Start! Not only did they help her get active and eat healthier but they helped to give her self confidence and increase her self esteem. I'm so thankful to have met Jean and her staff, I can never thank them enough for helping to make my child a better person! read more

Throughout this summer I've had the privilege to help over 100 kids while interning at the best health & wellness camp in the country called Camp Jump Start. With the help of an amazing staff, each & every child was able to transform not only their body but also their MIND to see what it's like to truly enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle and what it really means to be a kid(while also losing over 3,000 pounds camp-wide). These kids gained confidence, self control, reliability, self respect, responsibility, kindness, & so many more great attributes that will set with them for life! This was an experience of a lifetime & just reassured that all I want to do in my future is help others live to their fullest and healthiest potential, no matter the age because it's all about helping others in life. From the wild & crazy days of kitchen duty and serving over 120 people 3 meals & 2 snacks a day to the relaxing sleep in sunday's and enjoying a good book with the kids, I wouldn't trade this past summer for the world. Thank you Camp Jump Start for showing me how a summer can make a difference in so many lives, including my ownThank you Tom & Jean for believing in me to help make a difference. It sure took a village. Choose to live life well because you only get one! ‍‍‍‍‍ read more

if you want more information, email me at ginkgo505@gmail.com

I had forgotten about CJS until I happened to see an add on twitter and felt compelled to write a review. Although my daughter went there 12 years ago I will never forget how caring, knowledgeable, dedicated and positive the director Jean, and the staff were. It was one of the most positive experiences in my daughters teen years and I will always be grateful we found CJS. read more

Most amazing place for kids to get out of their own way and adopt a healthy lifestyle. It's much more than physical health. CJS helps kids change the narrative in their own heads and look at themselves in a much better light. The staff is incredibly well educated and patient. I highly recommend for ANY young person!!! read more

Our daughter recently came home from Camp Jump Start's eight week summer program. She came home happy and confident. Based on what we saw, Camp Jump Start is SO much more than a weight loss camp; it is an overall health camp. Jean, the passionate head of this camp, is a nurse by background and strongly believes in the potential of every child to be healthy. She works with youth from the inside out, teaching socio-emotional skills, general physical health skills, as well as helping youth start on their weight loss journey. Our daughter came home talking about nutrition, health, fitness, and exercise. She came home standing tall and confident and more beautiful than ever. She is also continuing to practice what she learned. We are so proud of her and happy with her experience at Camp Jump Start! read more

What my daughter experienced at Camp Jump Start is not only about the weight she lost but about what she "gained" from her time there. She gained self-confidence, high self-esteem, emotionally maturity, life long friends and so much more. She was 13 the first summer she attended and she lost 20 pounds in four weeks. She also maintained that weight for an entire year. She went back the following summer not because she had to lose weight but because she wanted to reconnect with her "people" as she called it. She also describes Camp Jump Start as her "safe place". If you have tried everything else (like I had) this is the place for you. read more

Want to help your child change their life . . . send them to 8 weeks at Camp Jump Start. I won't spend a great deal of time talking about the details of the camp (their website is very detailed and easy to navigate). What i will tell you is that the changes in my child were beyond amazing and I am not referring to the weight loss (there was lots of that). At 15 she had grown into a cycle of self sabotage and defeat and spent her days as a victim (it was always someone else's fault why something, really anything went wrong). I didn't really even recognize this pattern until she spent 8 weeks breaking it. Was it difficult for her (and us) Absolutely but anything worth gaining will take hard work. There were days that she sounded quite unhappy and I was tempted to "rescue" her from the hard work she was doing and bring her home. I am so so so so so glad that I did not do my normal mom thing and swoop in to make it "all better". She stayed the entire 8 weeks and as I said it truly changed her life in so many ways. Her sense of accomplishment and inner strength was (and remains) so strong. She truly believes that she can do anything she sets her mind to accomplishing AND she is willing to work hard to make that happen. Happy to say that 5 months after camp the changes in her not only remain but grow every day. She takes full responsibility for everything in her life (weight, friendships, school work, chores, personal happiness, etc etc.) I daresay that many adults in their 30's and 40's don't have that same sense of personal responsibility that she learned in one summer. The staff and counselors were beyond awesome and truly care about helping your child become the best version of themselves that they can be. If you are looking into the camp I will say with 100% confidence that it will be the best gif thou can ever give you child. It truly is the gift that will last a lifetime. read more

I want to personally thank you for your dedication to this group of kids this year and every year and my daughter. I am in love with CJS. I have to tell you. I love the inspiration you give to so many innocent children who need that sort of love and devotion to their health and life. Thank you again for all you do, all that you inspire in each one of the kids and all the help you get for the children and give them. The counselors are amazing as well as the dietetic staff. It was so great to be a part of a graduation such as this, to experience it all first hand. It was an unbelievable experience with kids from all over the country-so many license plates in the parking lot-from New Mexico to New York--just amazing... Met some folks from New Hampshire and Texas... Your camp means so much to so many. People LOVE you; with just talking to the parents before, during, and after graduation, you must know this. You and your husband are amazing. I want you to know how very much I appreciate all that you do, all that you are, and all that you will do for all those who come after my daughter. Thank you for all that you did for my daughter personally. She needed to hear everything you said. I'm glad we are on the same team. My husband and I would like to contribute our time, talent and treasure to your place there because it means so much to us what you are doing. Thank you again for ALL that you do. I can only imagine how much work goes into this camp..... WOW!! read more

I went to Camp Jump Start in June of 2019 and was very successful! I learned proper nutrition, sleep and exercise habits and have been able to keep off the 20 lbs I lost while there. I'm sure I'll keep never go back to the way I was. Thanks Jump Start!!! read more

Camp Jump Start has been a game changer for our family! This camp is an investment in the health of the entire family. If you are willing to do your part, their program absolutely works! As a registered nurse of seventeen years, I had learned about nutrition and exercise, and have treated morbidly obese patients with multiple diseases related directly to the obesity. In fact, it is a rapidly growing problem in our country. That being said, almost every person in our immediate family was still struggling with weight issues, specifically my youngest son. After looking online for a camp to send him to that wasn't just a "fat" camp, I knew that Camp Jump Start was right for him. The camp director, Jean, is also a registered nurse, and that appealed to me as well. She is one of the most caring, selfless people I've ever met, and it shows in how her camp is run. The camp is so much more than weight loss, it really is about the overall well being of these children. And if they struggle with weight, I can almost guarantee you that they are struggling in other areas of their lives as well. With all of my nursing experience, I had no idea that my own son had a condition called acanthosis nigricans. During orientation on the first day of camp, Jean educated the parents about it. It is a precursor to diabetes. My son had it, but I had no idea that's what it was. Even as a youngster when I was still helping him bathe and he was gaining weight, he had the marks under his armpits and in his groin area. I would try to scrub them off because I thought it was dirt. I never even realized that he had the mark on the back of his neck as well. That just goes to show you that even a nurse mom didn't know what was wrong with her child, let alone that it was related to him being overweight. I am grateful that Jean opened my eyes about this condition. My son can proudly say that after four weeks at Camp Jump Start, his acanthosis nigricans is GONE! How amazing is that? He was on his way to developing diabetes, and four weeks at camp has basically saved his life. I cried tears of joy when Jean told me that it was completely gone. My son lost 17 pounds in four weeks, and has continued to lose weight since he's been home. He has started the school year with a new confidence and glow that I haven't seen in a long time. We are on this journey together, and I want him to be a happy, healthy person with a long life ahead. If you are looking for a place to send your child that is struggling with weight, look no further than Camp Jump Start. It's safe, it's effective, they look at each child as an individual, and you won't regret it. My son wants to go back next year, although it is my hope that if he does, it will be to visit Jean and her amazing staff rather than for weight loss this time around! read more

My 12 year old son went to this camp this year (2013), it was a transforming experience. My son was not at all motivated to lose weight before he went. He was willing to go because I 'nagged him about it." But he would have preferred to stay home and play vide games. He was probably one of the smallest kids there, but his eating was completing out of control and we were battling constantly about exercise and food and his BMI was getting higher and had just crossed into the obese range. I knew I had to do something, but I was afraid that since he wasn't particuarly motivated to lose weight that it would be hard for him to make behavior changes. He lost 10 pounds there and left a healthy weight. Other kids who have far more to lose, lose far more. For my son, it was not as much about the weight loss as it was about the behavior changes and education he got. He came back from camp educated about healthy living, and he was able to self regulate his eating and video game playing. After returning, he was self-motivated to move more and eat less. For example, he went to Hershey Park shortly after returning home. Not the easiest place to find healthy food choices. On his own, he chose to eat at Subway and ordered a 6 inch sub with lettuce, tomato and ham on a whole wheat bun. He got water and apples. He wanted to have a snack so he chose to have a small chocolate bar that was under 150 calories because that's what an average snack is at camp Jumpstart. Before going to camp jumpstart he would have had a large order for fries, with french fries and then had as much chocolate as he was given. I would have tried to regulate him and it would have resulted in screaming matches. They gave out free candy at Hershey Park. He took a Kit Kat Bar, brought it home, gave it to me and asked me to put it away. He said he'd "split it with a friend" for a snack some other day. I promise you there would have been no saving of the Kit Kat or splitting a Kit Kat before camp Jump start. The nutrition and counseling classes were excellent and REALLY result in long-term behavior change. Because all the kids did them, there was no stigma associated with doing them. His initial transition to camp was hard; but he ended up having a really good time. He's a very shy kid and socially awkward and he successfully made two cabins full of friends. He also met a "girl." Nothing inappropriate; they just talked but a good experience for a socially shy kid! The head staff and counselors all really care about the kids. There are fewer activities and choices here then you will find at other camps. However, I think this was ultimately a good thing. My son needed to be "forced" to try new activities that were inexpensive like hiking or aerobics so that when he got home we could continue with an affordable, active life. It doesn't really help long-term if all he learns to like is paintball and windsurfing and you can't afford for him to continue with those activities year round when he returns! If your end goal is long-term weight loss, camp jump start is the place! Don't bother sending your kids to a camp that does not require the kids to do nutrition and counseling as they will not result in long-term change. read more

My daughter was bullied here. It was a nightmare experience. Please listen some kids are treated well and others are not. The owner grabbed my daughter forcefully and helled at her in front of other kids. Then she was made to stay alone with this woman till we got there. They didn't have a lot of things they said the did. Girls did do aerobics with boys. There was no fitness course with climbing wall. The ropes were all to worn to use safely. Parents are not contacted when things happen to their kids and kids phones are taken. They are suppose to have things to do at night activities and such but they just sit around and it's very boring my daughter informed us. I could go on and on. My daughter had extreme anxiety after this experience. Please don't send your kids here. Get them a personal trainer and stay away from this place. With a personal trainer our daughter lost so much more weight and kept it off! Was extremely happy with the one on one attention and positive attitude these people do not share this idea. Please this place could damage your kid for life just don't do it! They only care about money! They never said sorry they just blamed our child for everything. read more

Last school year I sat in my car watching my daughter slip behind the doors of her school and my heart ached for her.  She was so uncomfortable in her own skin and it broke my heart knowing the pain she was going through every day.  It hurt my heart to know that she was known as the DUFF (designated ugly fat friend) among the other kids at school.  When I reached out to Camp Jump Start last year I was desperate for a solution.  I couldn't bare to watch another year knowing that each passing day she was slowly slipping away; she was giving up.  She was accepting that being overweight was her destiny and that she would never have the opportunity for the life she really wanted.  What Camp Jump Start has done for my daughter and so many other kids in her situation is astounding.  I am a single mother of three children and although I have a decent job with health benefits, I struggle to make ends meet as many families do.  God is very good to our little family and He always provides for us.  When I found Camp Jump Start on the internet I was so happy, but also worried.  My daughter needed this camp, but I didn't know how I could make it work. I prayed and prayed.  I couldn't stop thinking about it.  If it weren't for the generous donors that help support Camp Jump Start, I know that she would not have had this life changing opportunity.  Jean Huelsing, the founder of the camp, had an amazing vision to help kids like my daughter and she has selflessly given so much to this endeavor.  Her team is a tremendous group that also believes in helping the kids and their families lead healthier and happier lives.  They saved my daughter from a life on the sidelines; never thinking she was good enough and always being the designated ugly fat friend.  They saved my family in so many ways.  My daughter is no longer the DUFF!  I sent her a quote when she was at camp that said, "Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly."  That is my daughter.  She finally became the butterfly she dreamed of.  She has grown so much and her eyes sparkle with anticipation now.  I've never seen her radiate such enthusiasm and pure joy.  Her self-confidence is strong and she's decided to compete in her first triathlon.  She also plans to participate in volleyball, swimming and track this school year.  She picks out recipes, makes shopping lists, cuts up vegetables and helps me cook now.  She can't wait to experience everything she has been missing.  I will be forever indebted to Camp Jump Start. I highly recommend this camp.  It will change the life of your child and your family in so many positive ways. read more

This is an email I sent to my friends and family the day that we got back from Camp Jump Start (her name has been removed): Ok. Let's get the stats out of the way. From June 14th to August 8th, my 15 year old daughter was at Camp Jump Start in Imperial, Missouri. In those eight weeks, she blossomed in so many ways. My favorite was her smile. She absolutely glows. She lost 38 pounds, 16% of her weight, and reduced her 15 minute mile to 10 minutes. Before she left to camp, she had stopped smiling for the camera, afraid her crooked smile doomed her. I knew her smile made her more beautiful, but I'm just a mom and I don't count. Her main camp counselor said she would not say but three words when she first arrived. By the end, she was not only enjoying camp, but embracing the whole concept of standing tall with pride. She motivated others and others motivated her. Oh, and one last thing...she fell in love (well, as in love as a 15 year old gets). His name is "L" and he lives in Illinois. The camp counselors said the two needed a few states between them to cool off. (All was very innocent per the counselors who keep that sort of thing in check.) Saturday, as we left camp, she became incredibly "home sick" for the camp. She got scared. But the cool blue Camaro I rented ($40-Enterprise) took us safely to Subway, where she forced me to use light mayo. At our 4 star hotel (Oh yes, I splurged on my kid - Renaissance Hotel $92/night.) she completely out swam me on all 7 slaps. Yesterday, after arriving home, she kept to her regiment and did three hours on the tread mill, and I got on my bicycle. I made a zucchini, potato, leak casserole with a little olive oil and even her brother (Mr. Macaroni and Cheese) liked it. Tonight, we are going on a bike ride on the Los Gatos trail. Wednesday night we take off camping, where two very fit young men will keep us all moving. And school starts Monday, the 17th. Although this summer has seemed to fly by, I bet this summer will go down as one of the bests of her whole life. Below are some before and after pictures (removed..sorry). I realized I had very few pictures on my phone, where she wasn't posing behind her brothers. In the choir picture, you can see her lack of smile. While at camp she came to realize how miserable she had become and how absolutely happy she is now. The camp changed her life, and she is changing ours. So, the journey has not ended. Not for her and not for us. I am so very proud of her. And with that, I wish you all a healthy 2015. A side comment: Two of the Camp Jump Start's biggest selling points were that they are non profit and it showed. Their commitment was not to money but to the kids. The second was that the activities the camp did were easily transferable to my lifestyle. Running, hiking, swimming, walking, horseback riding....all doable. Camp Jump Start was in the top 7 in the nation. I did a lot of research and this was the best decision I have ever made for my daughter. read more

Best decision we could have made for our daughter! We sent our daughtee for the 8 week session. She lost 32 pound but gained much more. Before attending camp she was very unhappy, did not care about her appearance, and constantly fought with family members. She returned so much happier and confident. She is even getting along well with family members. This camp was a life saver for not only for our daughter but our family. read more

Camp Jump Start was an amazing experience for my 14 year old daughter. She went for a 4 week session, and I regret that she didnt go for 8 weeks (school was still in session). She lost weight, but more importantly, she learned about making healthy food choices, portion control and she now does a daily exercise routine with her dad. She came home from CJS with a mega watt smile and a motivated attitude to match it. Her self confidence went through the roof! She is so excited to go back to school with her new body (and new clothes)! She came home a different person. She continues to lose weight, her BMI is back in the normal range, and she now has the self-motivation required to stay on track. CJS is not only focused on the weight loss, but the whole child. It is the only camp that I found that understood the importance of addressing the underlying reasons why children over eat, and Jean makes sure that every camper gets what they need. She knows each camper by name, and takes the time to read each of their profiles and histories. Jean always replied to our emails when we reached out to check in which was very reassuring. Of course, like any parent we were nervous about sending our only daughter to another state for a whole month. But when she got off the plane and we were driving home, she said, "Mom, I love Jean. If you weren't my mom, Jean would be my mom." My heart melted. We knew at that moment, we had made the right choice. CJS is the only camp I would ever recommend for any child struggling with weight loss. I would send my daughter back without a second thought if she needed it, but thanks to the amazing job CJS did the first time around, I dont think my girl will need to do it again. Her BMI and her overall weight is back in the healthy range! Thank you Jean for helping and loving all the campers the way you do! read more

Best place for kids struggling with overweight issues-camp jump start deals lovingly and skillfully with physical, mental and emotional components of the problem, and even addrresses the environmental problems of home, school and neighborhood Was totally a life saver for my child read more

I have NOTHING but positive to say about Camp Jump Start and the entire staff including Jean. I looked online for months before choosing Camp Jump Start. They were the ONLY NON PROFIT camp out there! I saw someone said they are in it "for the money"..seriously? As a parent - check out the prices of the weight loss camps in GA, Poconos PA, or any other one...they are hands down $5,000-8,000 and more for an 8 week session. I have twin 15 yr old boys (14 during camp) who were knocking on pre-diabetics door. It scared me badly. Jean called me the next day after I asked for information and we talked for at least 1 hour. The boys tell me it was not easy - they were not used to eating only 1,500 calories a day. Or exercising ALL the time, but they had FUN doing most of it. They HATED walking up to their cabins at first (they were on top of a hill) but after a couple weeks of exercising, they said it was fine. The first week is a blackout - no phone calls home - to allow kids to adjust. I did what they tell you and had family & friends write letters and cards. I did this way ahead of time so they had a piece of mail everyday - words of love and encouragement. Being away from home was hard for both the boys and us, but once they settled into a routine time went by quickly for them. Parents who are looking at sending your kids to camp - please email me at rosalynmoore63@gmail.com and I will talk with you and share my experience with you. My boys lost 54 & 55 pounds in the 8 weeks they were there Plus they have lost another 10 & 12 pounds since being home. Thanks to Jean and her DEDICATED staff at Camp Jump Start, they have a new look at life, and how they can succeed. The boys asked to go back this next summer for 4 weeks and my husband and I both said yes! They are looking forward to taking eating and exercise to the next level. Thank you Camp Jump Start! read more

Camp Jump Start at Living Well Village is an amazing place for kids to have a safe environment during weight loss and building confidence. I wanted to come to Camp Jump Start because I wanted to help change the world. I wanted to tangibly see how much of a change one summer could make. The answer is life changing for both the counselors and the kids that come here. The kids make a complete 180 degree turning their lives after completing camp. Friendships are made that last a lifetime between campers. But, the kids leave an even larger imprint on the counselors. I know that I have personally grown as an individual. There is no obstacle that we cannot face, as long as you try your hardest everyday; because tomorrow is not promised to anyone. Honestly this summer was the most influential and rewarding of my life thus far. I thank Camp Jump Start for allowing me to take this opportunity to serve these kids and share my passion for fitness with them. Practice makes permanent! Always work hard and never give up! Clay Marvin NASM - Certified Personal Trainer read more

My daughter has attended Camp Jump Start and has learned so much from the classes that she took there. She not only learned about nutrition and healthy choices, she also learned about who she was and that she is worth taking care of herself. I can remember the first time that she went to CJS. She was 10 years old and had never really been away from home. Her daddy and I drove away crying and vowing that we would never allow her to do this again. Little did we know that she would find a place where she longed to return to. She found a place that accepted her for who she was and encouraged her to be all that she could be. She spent much of the first week in tears and the staff were so very good at handling this. She spent the second week missing home, but glad she had not been allowed to give up. She spent the third week knowing that her time was almost finished and talking about what all she had learned and accomplished. She spent the final week wishing she could stay longer, but empowered to finish her journey at home. This experience had been a difficult time for all of us, but we came out stronger and determined to live healthier lives. Each year our daughter wanted to return, but financially we were not able. One year she was blessed to be able to attend for a 2 week refresher. Then she was determined to go again. So she began saving all of her babysitting money and money from odd jobs. She was so excited to return to camp for 8 weeks when she was 15. She enjoyed the time at camp and had a very successful weight loss. This motivated her for the following year. She maintained her weight loss within a few pounds and was able to return again at the age of 16. Now we are facing her last year to attend camp and she is working very hard to save the money needed to attend again. She looks so forward to reuniting with the friends that she has made over the years. As you can see, we have had much experience with CJS and we are very pleased. The staff is well trained and the campers are well supervised. The environment is a safe place where our daughter has grown and become a more confident leader. I look back at the notes the counselors wrote the first year that she attended, encouraging her to be a leader and not stand back. She has embraced that and my once quiet daughter, now voices her needs and wants very well. Thank you CJS for being part of our lives and helping our family embrace a healthier lifestyle. You are always in my prayers as you continue to reach the next generation and change the course of their lives for the better. read more

30 WONDERFUL COMPONENTS OF BEING A COUNSELOR AT CAMP JUMP START During the summer of 2015 I was blessed to live at Camp Jump Start in the small town of Imperial Missouri for 9 weeks. I never would have guessed that my mind, heart, and eyes could possibly be opened as much as they were! I was surrounded by kids ranging in age from 9-18 both boys and girls. These amazing kids battled the intimidating journey of dramatic weight loss, soul searching, life lessons, and group living. I got to witness every single minute of this journey! Below are my 30 wonderful components of the job. Obviously there are many many more, but this is my top 30 list: 1. I got to wear athletic clothes, tennis shoes, a ponytail, and no make-up every day at work! 2. I became a professional bug killer and critter "shoo-er"! 3. Having my hug and pep talk be the thing to comfort my homesick kiddos! 4. Getting a tan everyday (farmers whip out those tank tops)! 5. Feeling as though I have known the staff for 5 years, when it has only been a week or two! 6. Wednesday and Saturday nights hold great important because of one thing: KOOL-AID! 7. Being on the opposite side of 100 campers in camper vs. counselor capture the flag dodge ball is slightly terrifying but SO much fun! 8. Becoming a morning person (why am I still awake at 10:30pm *yawn*?)! 9. Learning to try new things that I never would have taken the time to otherwise! 10. Recognizing the look when my kids need me and picking them back up! 11. Listening to my campers open up and share personal stories with their new found friends! 12. Whipping out aerobics dance moves in any location when the song turns on! 13. Going on a diet and working out on the job (what? I get fit too?)! 14. Watching the kids bust out their best dance moves at the final evening CJS Dance! 15. Group singing out of pitch and harmony to any song is ALWAYS WELCOME AND ENCOURAGED (T-Swift or Whip and Nay Nay) 16. Feeling as though you won the lottery when re-filling your water bottle from a fresh ice-cold cooler! 17. Completely losing it and bawling because of my camper's improvements and successes! 18. The sound of cowbells means salt is near in the form of sweat and happy tears (the most exciting and monumental day)! 19. I was lucky to work for the Huelsing's that truly cared about me and that I could go to for truly anything! 20. Food time is 5X a day on the dot- 7:30am breakfast, noon lunch, 3:00pm snack, 5:00pm dinner, 9:00pm snack! 21. Making forever friends with counselors from all different cities and states (we still stay in contact even though the summer is over)! 22. Seeing a camper make friends or find love whom has never experienced these before (it's the sweetest moment in the world)! 23. The look on the face of a camper whom cut 10+ minutes off of their mile time! 24. Being completely "unplugged" from wireless and phones- and having 100+ kids do the same! 25. Seeing the before and after picture of campers while they radiate with confidence! 26. Being the "good night" and "good morning" for eleven 9-11 year olds every single day! 27. Seeing a camper wear shorts that never had the confidence before! 28. Running with a camper for the entire mile who could not even run for 30 seconds at the beginning of the 4-week adventure! 29. Watching a father breakdown at the sight and embrace of his young daughter after 8 weeks (seeing what that meant to him and knowing what it means from her due to all of the stories of her daddy)! 30. Being told by one of my campers: "You saved my life"! read more

Camp Jump Start was truly the best thing that could ever have happened to our son. After two months not only did he return completely "transformed" physically (he lost 28 pounds), but his confidence level is through the roof, too! He smiles more, seems more patient, and has a better outlook on life. This camp is everything it said it would be. It really wasn't just a "weight loss" camp, it is MORE than that in every way. It is a complete lifestyle camp--Our son had a wonderful time!. He learned so much, too, about healthy eating, how to socialize, how to feel good about himself again. It has been over a month and a half now since he returned and he is still watching his calories, checks labels, and if he goes over he "works off" the extra calories on our treadmill (in addition to other physical activity he does at school, etc). He has become the chef of the household, too, and selects only the healthiest recipes for all of us to enjoy. He loved the camp, the staff, the friends he made there. He still talks about it today, and asked us if he could return next summer! We can't thank Jean and her staff enough for this wonderful experience for our son. This camp is very well thought out and highly organized. We highly recommend it to any parent with a child struggling with weight and self- esteem issues. read more

What do you say about a camp that literally gave our daughter her life back? When we reached out to Camp Jump Start (CJS) in May,2017 - it was literally just a few weeks prior to the first session of camp. At our wits end, I had a chance meeting with another mother who referred us to CJS. Our daughter (who had just graduated from high school) was completely out-of-control with her eating - bingeing on anything she could get her hands on (even healthy foods) and had gained almost 40 lbs. in 6 months. To complicate the situation, she also suffered from severe OCD, anxiety and ADHD. We tried every intervention imaginable - from Eating Disorder Clinics, to dieticians to different diets and more...nothing was helping and she kept getting worse. We knew our daughter needed help - but we were at a loss. From our very first encounter with CJS - we were treated with kindness, compassion and HOPE. On that initial call (as I tearfully explained our situation), I spoke directly with the nurse and founder of CJS, Jean Huesling. It quickly became apparent that Jean (and her husband Tom) have literally made it their life's mission to help these children who suffer with weight problems and it is truly their passion. Making the hardest decision of our lives, we dropped our daughter off at CJS on her 18th Birthday. Due to our daughter's psychiatric issues - the transition to CJS, being away from home, etc. was a challenge but Jean and her caring team members lovingly and firmly walked each step of the way with our daughter. They even went the extra mile to email me in the middle of the night, talk with her psychiatrist over the phone and do anything possible to help - their motto is "we will not give up on you". This in turn, helped our daughter believe in herself. Over her 8-week session, our daughter lost almost 30 lbs. However, it is what she gained at CJS that stands out the most to us - she gained her self-esteem, she gained confidence, she gained physical health (she went from a 13-minute mile to a 9-minute mile!), she gained her happiness and her soul back. In addition, the eating habits and the exercises that they teach at CJS are easily transferrable to home and she has continued her journey of health - she has not binged since coming home. We are forever grateful to Jean, Tom and the caring staff of CJS - CJS was truly, truly the BEST birthday present that our daughter has ever received and we cannot thank them enough. read more

Camp Jump Start is exactly that, a "jump start." It will give your child a jump start to a healthy life. For years I had been struggling to get my daughter's weight under control, she gains 10-20 pounds ever year. That simply isn't sustainable once you hit adolescence. She was at camp for 4 weeks and lost 13 pounds, about 7% of her body weight. But camp was only a "jump start." She came home with an new attitude about eating and exercise. Now she pays attention to what she eats and portion control. She has lost another 10 pounds in the past 3 months after camp. CJS has inspired my entire family, my husband has lost about 25 pounds. I have stopped relying on prepared easy foods to feed my family, I cook a healthy dinner as often as I can. My daughter helps with the meal prep too, that is something she learned at camp. It isn't a miracle cure and you need to stick with it an apply what you learn there. My daughter's goal is to lose another 35 pounds in the next 18 months. I am certain she will achieve her goal. read more

An excellent camp with a caring staff in a very positive environment. As a summer camp in general I would rate them high on the quality of their staff and programming. As a camp whose focus is on weight loss and making healthy choices, we could not be happier with the results for our son after 4 weeks of camp. He was overweight and as a result had lost confidence in playing competitive sports because of all the running involved. At Camp Jump Start he lost 10% of his body weight, dropped 3 1/2 minutes from his mile run, learned about good nutrition, and regained his confidence. We just purchased shin guards and soccer cleats and he is looking forward to playing soccer again with his high school team. After being home for one week he is exercising, making much better food choices, and even running up the stairs in our house which he never used to do! CJS does well to prepare the kids and their families for life after camp so that they can continue to be successful. We are so thankful to have found this camp! read more