Camp Cole: Building a Year-Round, Inclusive Camp That Changes Lives in Columbia, SC

What started as one family’s camp experience became one of Columbia’s most meaningful spaces for connection, hope, and belonging. In this episode, we sit down with Kelsey Sawyer Carter and Margaret Deans Grantz of Camp Cole to share the story behind the camp, why it was built here in Columbia, who it serves, and how it’s grown into a year-round, fully accessible facility.

We talk about the real behind-the-scenes of building a nonprofit from the ground up, what “inclusive and accessible” looks like in real life, and how Camp Cole stays funded through community support, events, and corporate retreats. Plus: a look at some of their biggest events and why so many people consider them Columbia traditions.

Whether you're a parent, business owner, community leader, or simply someone who believes in making Columbia stronger, this conversation will leave you inspired.

For more information about Camp Cole, upcoming events, or ways to support their mission, visit:
 👉 https://www.campcole.org/

And for more episodes featuring the people shaping Columbia, SC, the business owners, nonprofit leaders, and community builders making a difference, be sure to subscribe and follow the Soda Citizen Podcast so you never miss a conversation.