Each year, Jameson Camp helps hundreds of disadvantaged children through a variety of summer camps and programs. After more than several decades of operating summer camp, we know the difference a summer at camp can make in the life of a young person. Here is the story of one of those children, Billy.
Billy’s story
Billy’s father was never involved in his life and when Billy’s mother died at a young age of AIDS, Billy went to live with his grandparents. His world was once again upended with the death of his grandfather. He was devastated and clung to his grandmother for comfort and security. While still grieving the loss of his grandfather, Billy and his grandmother learned that Billy had been infected with HIV/AIDS.
After all the loss in his young life, Billy withdrew believing he had no reason to live. Even though it was painful, Billy stopped taking the critical medications he needed to treat his condition and keep it under control. His grandmother saw shut out all the important people in his life. She was desperate to find help for Billy.
One of the camp programs is the Tataya Mato program specifically developed for children affected by HIV/AIDS. When Billy’s grandmother learned about the summer camp, she knew it would be difficult for Billy to step away from her side, but she felt she had to pursue this opportunity for help for her grandson.
The Jameson Summer Camp Experience
Billy was, indeed, reluctant to leave his grandmother at first. However, he soon discovered he was not alone in dealing with this devastating disease. At camp he felt accepted, and it was fun. Billy learned to open up to others and to respect their feelings as well. He came to love the time he spent at Jameson Camp’s Tataya Mato camp.
Billy changed his attitude and started taking his medications again, without having to be encouraged to do so. Billy’s grandmother was thrilled, and thankful, for all the progress he was making. She said, “Over the years, Jameson Camp was always that one bright point in Billy’s life.”
Over time Billy was invited to participate in the ACE (Advanced Camper Experience), now PACK, program. This was a coveted honor for campers which included a leadership position. Billy eagerly accepted. Billy’s grandmother said that through the ACE program she saw a significant change in this boy she loved. “Billy was alive again,” she said. “It made him want to live.” Billy, who had once felt like giving up on the world was anxious to make a difference in the world by helping others.
The Influence of Summer Camp
Through all the summer camps and other programs developed at Jameson Camp, children come to recognize the skills they need for success in life. And, more importantly, they are motivated to acquire and develop those skills for themselves.
Parents, teachers, and social workers affirm again and again the amazing influence Jameson Camp has in changing children’s lives. Many campers return year after year, growing into adolescents and teenagers committed to helping others learn to look at themselves and their futures in a positive light. They become role models for other children who first come to camp as broken and frightened as Billy was that first day.
It Takes Hands and Hearts All Year Long
It takes a lot of time, effort, love, and money to reach and touch all the children who need help and guidance. But it is stories like Billy’s that motivates us to offer the best summer camp experience possible year after year. We know that while programs and faces change, the transformations continue. Jameson Camp is changing the world, one child at a time.
Volunteers and donations are always welcome at Jameson Camp. For more information, visit our website or call us at 317-241-2661. The step you take today could open the door for a child and their future success.