Connect With Others Like You

Making meaningful connections with others who understand you can make a real difference in your mental, emotional — and even physical — health. The Arthritis Foundation offers many opportunities to meet other kids with juvenile arthritis (JA) who are facing the same challenges. Here are some of them:

• JA Camps. The Arthritis Foundation’s JA camps give kids with arthritis and related conditions the traditional camp experience, with swimming, campfires, arts and crafts, water sports, hikes, horseback riding, zip lines and much more. For many campers, this is the first time they’ve met other kids who live with the same challenges. The camps vary by location, name, dates and the activities offered. But all provide a safe and encouraging environment, opportunities to build confidence, increase knowledge about arthritis and, of course, have fun! And all JA Camps are led by trained staff and volunteers. 
• JA Family Summit. Each year, the Arthritis Foundation hosts a one-of-a-kind event just for families of kids with JA across the country. The JA Family Summit includes special educational sessions for parents and children as well as fun activities for the whole family to enjoy — including siblings, extended family and caregivers. There are plenty of opportunities to meet new people and build lasting friendships with kids and families going through similar experiences to yours. 
• JA Connect Groups. The Arthritis Foundation Live Yes! Connect Groups provide supportive social connections for parents/guardians of children and for adults living with all types of arthritis and rheumatic diseases. These virtual or in-person groups bring people together for fun social and educational events and activities. Participants share mutual support and positive coping strategies for living well with arthritis. These groups offer a place of understanding and encouragement for people living with arthritis and for their loved ones. Group members become self-advocates, develop disease-management skills and learn ways to thrive with arthritis. 
• Local JA Family Events. The Arthritis Foundation hosts Juvenile Arthritis (JA) Family Education Programs throughout the year to help kids and their families live better with JA. While some events are educational, learning experiences, others are social, interactive and fun, held in a safe environment where families can relax, network, learn from one another and spend time with each other. The greatest benefit of these programs is getting to meet others who are dealing with similar issues, who share some of the same feelings, experiences and concerns. Check your local Arthritis Foundation office to find events near you.
• Arthritis Foundation Special Events. Just about everywhere in the U.S., the Arthritis Foundation hosts events to raise awareness and funds for arthritis research and the many programs and services we offer. They’re great places to make a difference as well as meet other JA families! These events include the Walk to Cure Arthritis, the Jingle Bell Run, galas and much more.