Texas Lions Camp helps children with disabilities become more independent
FROM STAFF REPORTS
MARBLE FALLS — The area Lions Clubs are hoping to get some youth interested in a lot of fun at camp this summer.
And the Lions will even pick up the tab for it.
But this isn’t just any camp, and it’s not for just any camper.
“It’s for children with disabilities,” said Marble Falls Lions Club member Marjorie Phipps. “This is a great chance for them to go to camp, have fun and interact with other kids and just enjoy the summer.”
While many grow up making summer camp memories, children with physical disabilities often don’t have those opportunities. Or, if they do make it to camp, they often find themselves one of a few with disabilities in attendance.
But not at the Texas Lions Camp. The 500-acre camp was built with children with physical disabilities in mind. The camp also hosts children with cancer and Type 1 diabetes.
The camp is open to children ages 7-16. Eligible children include, but are not limited to, children who are hearing impaired or deaf, visually impaired or blind, have a missing limb, birth defects, cerebral palsy, arthritis, muscular dystrophy, cancer, asthma, heart conditions and other health issues.
One camp session is for children ages 12-16 with Down syndrome ages, while two sessions are provided for children ages 8-15 who have Type 1 diabetes.
“We really want to create a wonderful experience for the kids,” Phipps said. “It’s amazing to watch the kids. They are just all smiles.”
While the camp is free to qualified youth, parents need to get them registered ahead of time.
The camp assigns counselors to each group of campers. These counselors escort the campers throughout the session, teaching and encouraging them while meeting their special needs.
The goal of the Texas Lions Camp is to help children become more independent. The camp works on helping the youth develop qualities such as self-image and self-reliance.
It’s all about helping the campers grow a “Can Do” philosophy.
Contact the Texas Lions Camp registrar Melissa Wilson at (830) 896-8500 ext. 250 or mwilson@lionscamp.com to apply.
Local Lions Club members who people may contact include Chuck Henicke at (325) 388-3568, Ken Martin at (325) 270-0866 or Phipps at (830) 693-3882.
Go to www.lionscamp.com for more information.
editor@thepicayune.com