1. Our Campers
They are the entire reason we are here. I am thankful for each and every one of them and the joy they bring to our program. Every minute of planning and every meeting becomes worth it when you see their joy and happiness. Our Campers are the heart of this program and I am thankful that they enjoy our program and want to come back year after year. I am also thankful for their parents and caregivers who are willing to share them with us for a week and trust us to keep them safe and happy.
2. Our Buddies
Our Buddies range in age from 14 to about 20. They are all in high school or the beginning of college. They give up a week (sometimes more) of their summer to fully commit to providing companionship and care for one of our Campers. I love watching the bond that forms between our Buddies and our Campers in a short week. It is truly an amazing thing to see (I wrote more about this over the summer.) This group of teenagers is inspiring and generous and kind. I feel confident in the future when I look at these amazing young men and women and what they are capable of doing. I am thankful that year after year hundreds of teenagers are willing to come be a Buddy at camp.
3. Our Incredible Staff
Oh, words cannot express how much love and gratitude I feel for our incredible Camp Leaders (formerly known as Group Leaders). These young adults are some of the most giving, caring, loving, enthusiastic, energetic, intelligent, strong, compassionate, creative, hard-working individuals I have ever met. Their job is not an easy one. The hours are long. The job is not glamorous. They spend about as much time with a mop and bleach as they do with running activities and playing with Campers. But they wake up every morning with a smile on their faces and a determination to make every day the best day ever for our Campers. They also make me laugh every day which is definitely a plus! I am so thankful that such a talented group of young adults choose to spend their summer with us.
4. Our Volunteers
Our Buddies and Camp Leaders take care of most of the minute-to-minute care of our Campers, but they can't do it alone. Our team of wonderful volunteers provide nursing care and delicious meals. They also help lend an extra hand in keeping our schedule moving and providing support to our staff and Buddies. Our nurses are often up before anyone else, prepping for the morning med pass. They patch up any scraped knees that happen throughout the day and they provide all of the care and treatment that our Campers need. They also tend to our Buddies and staff as well. It's a busy week for them and we are beyond thankful that they keep us all healthy and safe and provide the care needed for many of our Campers to be able to even come to camp. The kitchen staff is DEFINITELY up before anyone else, frying up the bacon and chopping up fruit for breakfast. They accommodate for food allergies and sensitivities and a wide variety of special meals. We couldn't do what we do without the help of all of our wonderful volunteers.
5. Our Campsite
I am so thankful for our camp grounds. Yes, the buildings are rustic. Yes, I dream about winning the lottery and expanding our facilities and giving the place a little face lift. But, I still have a huge smile on my face every time I drive down the long winding road to our office. The property is stunning. It's peaceful and quiet and beautiful. We have access to a gorgeous dock that we can fish from and relax on. We get to swim twice a day. There are huge, old oak trees that provide shade and a little respite from the oppressive Florida heat. I would not be at all surprised if this is what heaven looks like.
6. Our New Office Building
As wonderful as our campsite is, I am very thankful that we are in the process of expanding. We are planning a post soon to update you on the progress of our new office building, but for now, let me just say how thankful I am that we have some visible progress on the building and how thankful I am for everyone who has played a role in making this a reality.
7. Our Development Team
As I've said a few times already, making camp happen each year is a team effort. I've mentioned our volunteers and staff, but we couldn't do what we do without the development team at Catholic Charities who supports this program. They support our fundraising efforts and our plans for the program. Their support enables this program to continue year after year.
8. Our Supporters
Camp has grown so much over the last 30-plus years, and that couldn't have been done without generous support. So many people rally behind us and help us to reach our fundraising goals and help provide scholarships for our Campers, and for that, we are extremely grateful.
9. Our Vendors
Most of our camp activities are run by our Camp Leaders, but we do bring in some vendors each summer. Some have been with us for many years. Some are newer. But we love them all and are thankful for the joy they bring to our Campers. From the hay rides and petting zoo to the theater performance to our DJs, they all add something special to our weeks.
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10. Our Mission
I am truly thankful to work for this organization. Camp has had a special place in my heart for more than half of my life. I love being able to be part of making it happen now. I am thankful to have a job that I love!
We are always thankful for these things, but it is nice this time of year to take some time to reflect on them. We hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
What are you thankful for this year?
