Foundation camps are something special

Served 138 special needs children in the tri-state area this year MILFORD — There’s something very special about the Ingeborg A. Biondo Memorial Foundation’s Summer Camp program. More than one thing, actually. For 138 children with special needs, the camping program was a memory-making time when they enjoyed the same wonderful experiences that kids typically have at camp. For their parents, camp provided a chance to take a break from the everyday responsibility of providing care, while knowing that their child was being lovingly tended in a safe and stimulating environment. Now in its seventh year, the summer camp program is one of the most satisfying and successful programs sponsored by the Ingeborg A. Biondo Memorial Foundation. Established in 1986 by Joseph R. Biondo, the Foundation financially assists developmentally, neurologically and physically challenged individuals, their families, their caregivers and others in the tri-state area of Pa., N.Y. and N.J. “It’s very rewarding to hear about the wonderful experiences the kids have at camp,” said Development Coordinator Maria Crawford. “We hear about how the child’s social skills improved and how they have become more independent; they acquire more self-esteem and increased confidence. But the best comments are about how the child ‘loved’ camp and can’t wait to go back again next year!” But while a child is enjoying the many pleasures of camp, the days spent there provide a respite for other family members. “Camp wasn’t only about our son, but about us as a family and the need to have a break to recharge,” wrote one parent. For Aaron Aumick, whose diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes was a major change of life for him as well as for his family, camp proved a life-altering event. In a letter, Aumick’s family shares a perspective held by many of the Biondo Foundation’s clients, whether they have diabetes, autism or other disabilities. “We are writing to thank you, and to tell you that you have changed our lives. Aaron experienced things that he would never have had the opportunity to if it weren’t for all of you. Most importantly, he learned that he is not alone, that there are many other children of all ages that share this disease with him. The best part of it all is that he had the chance to just be a kid again. To not have to worry what others think, to not have to carry his supplies around all day and to have fun with other children his age.” “It also gave our family the opportunity to be a family without diabetes again. We were reminded how quickly life can change. It gave us time to focus on our daughter and time to refresh ourselves.” “The letter mentions so many things that our clients struggle with,” explains Crawford, “the ‘whirlwind’ of doctor visits and medications, the feeling of being different. Many parents are afraid to send their child off to camp. It always seems to be the hardest but best decision.” The Biondo Foundation’s camping program takes place at several regional facilities: G.A.I.T. Therapeutic Riding Center, Blue Mountain Day Camp, Country Ark Farm, Camp Speers-Eljabar, Pocono Environmental Education Center, Camp Nejeda, Camp Lee Mar, Camp Shohola as well as the Center for Developmental Disabilities. For additional information about the Ingeborg A. Biondo Memorial Foundation, please visit www.biondofoundation.org or contact Maria Crawford at 570-686-2402.