District Foundation

I come to you once again to tell you that our Kamping season was once again a great one.
Executive Director Rebecca Clemence and her staff provided Kampers with everything that we promise in our mission statement and for those who haven't read it, on our website, this is our mission:
"Kamp Kiwanis is aimed at providing fun, physical exercise and adventure. It strives to afford opportunities to participate in a creative outdoor group experience in a democratic setting and develop characteristics of leadership and fair play. The program at Kamp Kiwanis is designed to mainstream all children, including up to 20 each session with special needs. It is non-competitive with emphasis on group and team building. No activity is forced, but all are encouraged."
That statement says it all and that's how we make wonderful memories for the children that attend and that is how we change their lives for the better. I want to thank Rebecca and her staff for the great job done and the wonderful environment they provide for the children and adults at Kamp.
This year we were able to extend our Kamping season for an additional two weeks through the efforts of President Emeritus Orlando "Lindy" Marrazzo, who put us in touch with an organization called Lifestyles for the Disabled. This organization cares for adults with special needs. This was a much needed boost to our finances but much more than that, we were able to provide a wonderful experience to these adults that have never had. The response from the adults and the organization was so positive, that we are now talking with them about 2015 and possible making it a yearly event.
There's a great number of people who need to be thanked for the great support they give to our Kamp but I'm afraid that if I start mentioning names I would fill this page and many more and I would probably still leave some names out, so let me say this: Once a year we have work weekends, before Kamp opens, and after Kamp closes, and every year it's the same people that come up and work.
If you are a New York District Kiwanian in good standing, you are part owner of this Kamp. Come up and see what a great property it is and what a magical place it is during Kamping season, come up and help us keep it the jewel of the District.
Opening day will be May 16, 2015. So why don't you get a few of your club members come up to the Kamp on the 14th or the 15th and help us get the Kamp ready for the season. I guarantee you that you will love it and will do it every year after that. Get in touch with Rebecca, tell her you will be coming up and what you can do. She'll have a list of things to do for you when you arrive.
Join us, it'll be fun.

Column Posted on Web Site November 1, 2014