As we look forward to our second Camp Vision, we are excited about the opportunities that the United States Association of Blind Athletes (USABA) and Divine Redeemer School have to offer youth from the Colorado Springs community. The experiences of getting to know blind youth from all over the world and participating in lessons taught by Olympic and Paralympic athletes provides children a rare balance of education, fun, and adventure that define young people's lives.

 

Camp Vision youth have the opportunity to grow physically, mentally, spiritually and socially in a caring, safe environment. Camp Vision will be led by qualified volunteers and staff who have years of experience in youth development as well as specific camp activities.  The enthusiasm and the energy of our staff will provide a wonderful experience for camp participants and an excellent opportunity for personal growth.

 

Our objectives are to inspire and teach youth to overcome the serious societal issues of declining health and wellness and negative perceptions of people with physical disabilities. More importantly, youth who participate in Camp Vision will gain the perspective that physically disabled athletes are truly their peers. Their interactions during the Camp will help them see the blind and physically disabled athletes first and foremost as other kids who love to compete and not “those blind or disabled kids.”  Positive peer relationships can provide some of life's greatest lessons.

 

In addition, those touched by Olympic and Paralympic athletes through our community outreach program and Camp Vision will further appreciate both how adversity is their friend as it helps them grow and what the true value of their own gifts is. Our goal is to send children home feeling good about who they are and the friendships they have made.

 

See you this summer at Camp Vision 2008!