Camp Oakhurst is a sleep-away camp for disabled children and adults. It has been in existence since 1906. The camp is wheelchair accessible and barrier free. I became familiar with the camp because my dad is the physical therapist, and I often went with him in past summers.

This summer, I volunteered as a counselor’s helper in the Arts and Crafts area as well as the Music and Drama department.

In the Arts and Crafts area, I assisted campers to hold a paintbrush, to sew a puppet, and to color. In the Music and Drama department, I played my guitar, sang along with the campers, and even helped them write an original song which we performed at the Prove the Potential talent night.

I am also in the process of fundraising for the camp. To do so, I am approaching various businesses in the community for donations of supplies. In addition, I am selling “Embracing all Children” wristbands to the public. The profits will go to Camp Oakhurst. I met many awesome kids at the camp this summer. In so many ways kids with physical disabilities are no different than myself. They love sports, music, and hanging out with friends. They don’t take time to dwell on the their disabilities, but accept themselves for who they are. They do not give up and set up high goals for themselves in life. I hope to volunteer at camp again next year and become a counselor in the future.