JT’s Camp Grom is a place of hope. The Virginia Gentlemen Foundation envisioned a camp where wounded veterans, children with disabilities, and families who have lost loved ones in combat could heal, have fun, and enjoy outdoor activities. WPA was honored to be part of the team that helped bring this vision to life.
The 13-acre camp, located in Virginia Beach on a 70-acre parcel along Prosperity Road, opened in June 2018. Camp Grom features a Welcome Center, Wellness Center, Amphitheater, Cafeteria and Tiki Café, a lake with a fishing pier, an Adventure Ropes Course, and an Aquatic Center with a Splash Park and FlowRider surfing and bodyboarding attraction. The entire camp is fully accessible for wheelchair users.
The Virginia Gentlemen Foundation invited regional architectural firms to contribute to the project on a pro bono basis. WPA designed the Welcome Center and Canopy Connections portion of the camp. The Welcome Center serves as the first impression and main entry point for campers, visitors, and supporters. The 4,000-square-foot building includes offices, a boardroom, a reception area, a first-aid center, and locker rooms. The YMCA of South Hampton Roads manages daily operations from the Welcome Center. WPA contributed more than $130,000 in design services to the project.
