Enhancing the lives of adults with developmental disabilities through recreation, socialization and life skills education.
WINTER 2015
An Experience for More Than Just the Campers Camp is for campers, right? While that’s certainly true, it’s also great for parents and caregivers! Just ask Amanda Manuel, whose daughter Doree attended our Ohio session. “Camp Blue Skies was a special blessing to us this year,” she shared. After a house fire in April, they were “all tired and weary. Doree was especially anxious and depressed from all the change, and she hadn’t really smiled in a while.” One important aspect was feeling confident in the Camp Blue Skies experience. “Because of my many conversations with
the camp staff, I was able to drop Doree off and know she was safe and would be in good, caring hands.” Affordability was another key factor. “It really helped that so many people had put so much time into fundraising so it was affordable. We chose a payment plan and said let’s go for it!” Through daily photos, they could see that Doree was enjoying herself and that she was “smiling and having fun again.” Reassured, she says they were able to have some much-needed rest and have some fun on their own. She adds, “I am such a fan of Camp Blue Skies now.” So every time you see the smiling face of a camper, remember that those who love and care for them daily are enjoying their time as well, free from their typical routine for a few days. Everyone’s a winner with Camp Blue Skies!
Camp Blue Skies Celebrates Five Years of Service! Camp Blue Skies - Ohio was a homecoming for me, as I was born, raised and went to college in Columbus. Each trip I made to recruit campers and volunteers brought back fond memories, and so many of my old friends have stepped up to become generous donors and volunteers. My fraternity brother Jon Holcomb and his wife Brenda, classmates of mine at Ohio Wesleyan University, worked tirelessly to head up the camp and make it a success. What a thrill to spend time with them throughout the year and be there to see the results!
been easy, but we’ve come farther than I ever dreamed. And none of this would have been possible without the work of our core team members - Rebecca, Liz, Kit, Amy, Alison and Crystal. I can’t thank them enough for their dedication, expertise, and their passion for the campers, volunteers, nurses, and caregivers. They are simply the best!
Dick Sesler, Camp Blue Skies Founder
It’s hard to believe that Camp Blue Skies is celebrating its fifth year. The road hasn’t
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