Guests got a glimpse of the magic that happens at Camp Easter Seal at the annual Camp Day hosted by Saskatchewan Abilities Council on Tuesday, July 26, 2016. Over 55 people attended Camp Day; an annual celebration to thank supporters, donors, members and sponsors for sending children and youth with varying abilities to Camp Easter Seal. Guests toured the facilities, interacted with kids throughout various activities and finished the afternoon off with a hearty barbecue lunch and a rowdy performance of camp songs sung by the kids and counsellors.
Each year approximately 700 campers travel across the province to Manitou Beach, near Watrous, Sask., for an unforgettable camp experience at Camp Easter Seal.
“It is truly a magical place,” said Su Huynh, the Manager of Camp Easter Seal. “[Campers] forget about the hospital visits, the doctor visits, all of those procedures they do at home. They come out here and kids get to be kids.”
“It is a place where various abilities are accepted,” she continued. “It is a place where new skills are learned by campers and staff. It is a place of fun. It is a place for parents to have peace of mind that their children get to do things their friends are able to do at a camp. That staff can provide for their care and programs are catered to their abilities. And most importantly it is a place of inclusivity for campers and for staff.”
Among the campers was Jesse Kirchner, smiling, singing camp songs and enjoying the sunshine on Tuesday. Kirchner is a first-time camper and can hardly contain his excitement for camp.
“Food, food, food! I love the food!” he said.
He’s enjoyed making new friends with the other campers and counsellors, participating in activities, especially at the indoor aquatic centre, and of course, relishing in the home-cooked meals camp provides.
The campers are not the only ones that love attending camp. Camp Counsellor Keva Barker is only a few weeks into her first summer at Camp Easter Seal and she already plans to return next year. She loves making connections with campers.
“Each child is different,” Barker said. “Each adult is different. So I’m learning to help them in the specific way they need. Everyone deserves an equal chance to be a normal kid.”
She hopes the experiences and skills she’s gaining at Camp will compliment her studies in the University of Regina education program and help develop her into the inclusive educator she strives to become.
About Saskatchewan Abilities Council/Easter Seals Saskatchewan
The Saskatchewan Abilities Council has been dedicated to providing programs and services to people with disabilities in Saskatchewan since 1950. With a focus on inclusion and enriching lives the Saskatchewan Abilities Council works directly with individuals to enhance their independence, participation in the community through vocational, rehabilitation, and recreational services.
