The number of kids going on this outing is nearly double the previous high mark of 70, which thrills Linda Shaffer, President of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Springfield, and Kali Lawrence, Executive Administrator of Springfield Promise Neighborhood.
“It’s amazing. This is a potentially life-changing experience,” said Shaffer.
The many people and the enthusiasm of the kids at Lincoln Thursday morning was a far cry from the first such camp experience in 2012, when the kids were hesitant to leave the bus upon arrival.
Now Shaffer and Lawrence said their most popular question throughout the year is when will it be time for camp again?
Shaffer had one repeat camper call her the previous Monday desperate to still make this outing. Despite the tight deadline, she made sure the boy had the forms and he was set to go by Thursday.
While the camp would normally cost about $375 a child for a five-night stay, grants from AEP Power and Safelite Auto Glass and locally from the Community Health Foundation and the Springfield Foundation have meant additional counselors could be hired, in turn allowing more children to attend.
The only out-of-pocket cost was a $10 fee per family for transportation costs.
“Those costs would be out of range for most of our kids,” said Lawrence. “To get kids out of their regular environment is invaluable and this partnership making it happen is extraordinary.”
Many of the kids haven’t experienced a state park such as Hocking Hills and this is an eye-opener.
Camp Oty’Okwa, which celebrates its 75th anniversary on Saturday, teaches self-esteem, team building, leadership and self-acceptance based on things they can accomplish.
They’ll also get to explore the park’s numerous trails, canoes and caves and camp in the woods one night.
“For kids not successful in a classroom, camp is a wonderful outlet,” Shaffer said. “Camp gives a chance to be responsible and learn respect for the environment.”
Two of the campers from the area programs are now counselors at Camp Oty’Okwa. Shaffer said kids attend camp at different times of the year as it operates year-round but this is the most popular time.
Lawrence said she was struck by the kids’ demeanor before leaving, which was calm and laid back, saying it’s a tribute to the freedom they are getting from the experience.
Even with that independence, Shaffer and Lawrence both noted another common occurrence upon homecoming. Being reunited with their families sees the children running from the buses and into the arms of family members.
“It’s a great ending to a special experience,” Lawrence said.
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