The first day for the 2019 Camp Woodchuck was Monday, June 3 and both staff and campers were ready. In fact, the theme for Camp this summer is “Wild about Camp”! As many of you know Camp Woodchuck is a summer recreational and leisure day program for more than 100 children and youth with disabilities between the ages of 5 and 21 years. It is a “wild” yet exciting 8 weeks as the campers come together to play, socialize, go on group outings, participate in activities to help the community, and bring joy to so many who have the opportunity to see Camp in action.
This week I had the pleasure of watching staff and volunteers from First Tee of Greater Wichita work with our youth learning a little about golf. They brought colorful balls, plastic clubs, and different visual targets for the children to aim their shots. I was amazed as each class went through the activities and how eager the campers were in giving it a try. We might have a couple of real golfers in the group! I was especially appreciative of the gentle and respectful way in which the First Tee staff and volunteers worked with each child. Each one is unique and special and First Tee recognized that immediately.
Camp Woodchuck takes place at Rainbows’ Kids’ Cove location at 2258 N. Lakeway Circle in west Wichita. Services that are provided include transportation to numerous community outings, meals, individual attention, and medication assistance as many of our campers require this support. We hire more than 40 additional staff in the summer to work at Camp each year.
This would all not be possible without the participation of community groups who share their passions at Camp and the monetary support of many. Funders for Camp Woodchuck include United Way of the Plains, Sedgwick County Developmental Disability Organization, C.J. Memorial Foundation, Fidelity Bank Foundation and WSU AmeriCorp VISTA Program. That is an impressive list of generous individuals and organizations. My sincere thanks to all you contribute to making Camp Woodchuck a successful and memorable experience for all involved. It is special!
Deb Voth, President
