Day Camp Provides Fun for Campers

The Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind (CLB) hosted its' 51st Camp Lighthouse for blind and visually impaired children at Catholic University in Washington, D.C., earlier this summer

For five days, from June 28th to July 2nd, roughly 40 campers - ages 6 to 12 - participated in a wide range of activities ranging from Beep Ball, soccer, swimming, games, and arts and crafts.

Despite the current poor economy, the camp was able to host more campers than previous years. 

"This year we served more kids at camp than we've served in the past few years," stated Jocelyn Hunter, the director of communications.  "We were fortunate to we received a lot of financial support from corporations, individuals and grantors that allowed us to host another successful camp."

Funded by grants and donations from companies and donors alike, the day camp enrollment fee is $50.00 but the fee can be alleviated by sponsorships.  CLB also provides round trip transportation to the campers' homes and as well as lunch for the campers, who are at camp from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Approximately 30 counselors and one nurse volunteer at Camp Lighthouse, as well as the parents who choose to attend the activities with the campers.

While some may have reservations about children participating in activities that are perceived to be dangerous, such as soccer or beep-ball, a baseball-like game that is guided by audio sounds, many change their minds once they see the campers having fun.  Guided by sounds that are embedded in the balls, bases and the mounds on the field, campers play the game and are assisted by the counselors during the game.

"The children love it, its such a competitive game for them," concluded Ms. Hunter. "A lot of direction is given during the game and the children have the concept of the game.  And it's so rewarding to see people who have initial reservations (about the game) who see the kids playing and having a ball and they understand how this camp works for them."