I am back from Summer Camp, a little (okay…a LOT) sleep deprived, but otherwise it was another great year!
I have been involved with this camp since 1992. I was introduced to it by a friend and have been hooked ever since. I have been almost every year with the exception of a few years where I was pregnant/nursing a baby or my husband was out of town on business.
Kids with Muscular Dystrophy come from all over the state of Utah to stay and play together for a whole week. I am one of the Group Leaders which means that we (and two other group leaders; 3 per group) are in charge of overseeing around 14 campers and their volunteers.
As group leaders, we begin planning the upcoming Summer Camp in Jan/Feb. I look forward to Camp every year almost as much as the kids with MD do.
I got home and was having withdrawls missing all of our friends, but was so excited to see my own family again. Sometimes I get asked why I spend time away from my own family to go and serve at this camp and the answer is that I want my kids to see how much I enjoy giving this service. My kids have been blessed with healthy bodies and I want them to learn to embrace others differences and realize that these kids are just regular kids.
Anyways, I just thought I would share with you some of the things I have been up to this week. If this looks like something you and your family might be interested in participating in, there are camps similar to this one in almost every state. So go and check it out.
Almost everyone who I have gotten involved in participating in any aspect of this Muscular Dystrophy Camp have claimed that it was one of the best things they have ever done.
What is something that you are doing to serve others in your community?
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Josh and Emily says
what a wonderful things to be part of. I am involved in a Special Needs Girls Camp program and it is truly the most rewarding thing. How wonderful for you to go an volunteer your time. I actually went to high school with one of the kids in your pictures. Keep up the great work.
This is awesome Amy! I volunteer my time at our local Familes Supporting Adoption Chapter. :) Feels good to know you can make a difference!
Amy – this blog is great!!! I had no idea we had so much in common, I follow so many crafty blogs – and now i can follow you too! :) Camp was awesome this year and i cannot wait till next year!
Heidi
I came across this blog as I was googling. Thanks so much for being involved in MDA Summer camp. I have two kids that are involved every year and have the time of their lives thanks to people like you. In fact you have a picture of my little Rylie on your blog.
Thanks
Jessica Carpenter
I just came across your blog today and I love it!!! I don't mind at all that you added Rylie's picture to your blog. Thanks again for all you do!!!
Jessica
As a teacher of students with severe disabilities, I have to say, hallelujah to your saying that you want your kids to see that these kids are just kids. That's my goal too. Looks like you had a great time.
Not exactly a summer camp, but maybe an idea along the lines of giving. I just feel like we get so wrapped up in gift giving at Christmas and lose sight of what the real meaning is. I'm so excited because this year we're each creating a small budget for our individual families, we're then for our extended family gifts each drawing only one name per person. And then we're planning to give monetary donations to the local food banks as well as SERVE in the kitchens. (Due to the children, we've looking for other ways to serve since some are too young for the true hands-on experience.)