Zajac Ranch

Tucked away on the shores of Mission’s Stave Lake is Zajac Ranch for Children. What was once the site of a Provincial corrections facility is now a place of wonder. A place where all limitations are left behind, and everyone is empowered to embrace the possibilities that lie ahead of them. A place where individuals are appreciated, celebrated, and accepted just as they are with no expectations to change. Out here, we raise spirits. 

The creation of Zajac Ranch for Children came from a time of deep loss. In 1986 Mel and Irene Zajac received the devastating news that their eldest son, Mel Jr., had drowned in a kayaking accident. While still grieving his passing, another tragic accident took their second son, Marty, eight months later. Knowing they may never fully recover from such unexpected and overwhelming loss, but recognizing the need to move forward, Mel Sr. and Irene set out to create a legacy that would continue to give back to the community for years to come. They founded The Mel Jr. & Marty Zajac Foundation in 1987 as a living legacy in memory of the two young men. 

There are over 21,000 children age 5 - 14 with special needs in British Columbia, and thousands more with disabilities and illnesses. Zajac Ranch for Children opened in 2004, after research done by the Mel Jr. & Marty Zajac Foundation showed the need for a facility with the accessibility and medical facilities to cope with the multifaceted requirements of children with life threatening and chronic illnesses residing in BC. Campers get to partake in activities such as horseback riding, swimming, kayaking, camping, sports, archery, crafts, music and theater in an inclusive and empowering environment. All activity areas are fully accessible so that even children with the most complex conditions can participate while receiving expert care. Zajac Ranch offers the ultimate camp experience — a place of excitement and fun, of healing and wellness — for children who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend camp. 
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In 2019, nearly 500 children and youth with medical needs attended summer camp at Zajac Ranch for Children. This summer has seen a change in our operations amongst the COVID-19 pandemic as we adapted to offer Family Retreats. Our new cohort-based model has campers stay within their family ‘bubbles’ while still experiencing the joys of camp. Zajac Ranch was host to 268 campers (parents & children) who likely would not have had another respite from the effects of the pandemic this summer. 
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At Zajac Ranch for Children we work hard to ensure hundreds of children with long term medical conditions and disabilities can come to camp each summer. We share a passion for helping children and inspiring others within our community.