In Tuscumbia, AL, with Helen Keller’s childhood home in the backdrop, 12 visually and hearing impaired campers converged Sept. 11-14 to take part in the second annual “Camp Courage: A Helen Keller Experience.”
Encouraging campers to “be like Helen,” Camp Courage offers children a chance to learn about arts and nature using hands-on learning experiences similar to those encountered by Keller at that age.
Born of a partnership between Optometry Cares-The AOA Foundation and the Helen Keller Birthplace Foundation, Camp Courage works in collaboration with qualified teachers for the visually and hearing impaired from the University of North Alabama and the University of Alabama to advance campers’ level of achievement, both academically and socially.
“It was truly a blessing to see the campers arrive with smiles on their faces, not knowing what was in store for them. But it didn’t take long for them to bond as they sat around the dining room table, talking and laughing,” said Sue Pilkilton, executive director for the Helen Keller Birthplace Foundation.
Camp Courage is made possible through the support of individuals and organizations nationwide. If you would like to join this philanthropic cause, consider participating by making a tax-deductible donation to Camp Courage. Write a check payable to “Optometry Cares—The AOA Foundation” and write “Camp Courage” on the memo line, and mail it to: Optometry Cares—The AOA Foundation, 243 N. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63141.
Volunteer to serve on the planning committee for Camp Courage by contacting the Helen Keller Birthplace Foundation at 256-383-4066.
For more information about Camp Courage, visit here.