#USA #Paul Newman #VoLo Foundation #Eustis #Camp Boggy Creek

Camp Boggy Creek: 30 Years of Transformative Childcare

A Truly Unique Experience for Children

As Camp Boggy Creek celebrates its 30th anniversary, it remains dedicated to providing a joyful escape for children facing serious health issues. Established to create a safe and supportive environment, the camp has catered to over 95,000 children and their families since its inception in 1996. The mission is profoundly simple yet powerful: to offer a free, transformative camping experience where respect, safety, love, and joy come together to enhance the physical and mental health of the young participants.

Medical Support Integrated with Fun

Situated in Central Florida and founded by esteemed philanthropist Paul Newman and General H. Norman Schwarzkopf, the camp spans 232 acres and features 45 buildings, including cabins, a dining hall, a medical center, a sports complex, and creative arts spaces. It's the only camp in Florida that provides comprehensive medical supervision, ensuring that children with various health challenges can engage fully in activities without fear. The camp operates throughout the year, hosting weekly summer sessions and family retreats in spring and fall, all at no cost to approved families.

A Day at Camp

During a recent visit by the VoLo Foundation team, staff experienced firsthand how the camp operates. Children participated in arts and crafts, and those with diabetes discussed their glucose monitors, turning a typical day into an extraordinary one. For children who seldom meet others with similar conditions, these interactions can lead to lifelong friendships.

Shannon Maganiezin, the VoLo Foundation’s Director of External Relations, remarked on the camp's ability to heal families by bringing together individuals who understand the unique challenges of living with serious illnesses. Sharing stories, building bonds, and creating support networks extend the camp's positive impact beyond its boundaries.

Touching Moments of Transformation

One remarkable story involves a medically vulnerable child who required personalized attention. Throughout the week, a volunteer focused solely on this child, ensuring every need was met. On a memorable visit to the pool using a special wheelchair, the child felt the sensation of walking for the first time. Such transformative experiences underscore how life-changing Camp Boggy Creek can be for its participants.

The Dream That Started It All

The inspiration for Camp Boggy Creek emerged from the personal journey of Jennifer Masi, a young girl battling cancer. After spending 10 days at Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in Connecticut, founded by Paul Newman, she returned home filled with a yearning to create a similar sanctuary in Florida. Her parents joined forces with Newman, Schwarzkopf, and other collaborators to bring this dream to fruition.

Three decades later, that dream continues to thrive with the help of over 1,800 volunteers each year. Camp Boggy Creek provides children with the chance to form friendships, develop independence, engage in creative pursuits, and connect with nature—all while offering families a respite and a sense of community.

Looking to the Future

As it sails into its fourth decade, Camp Boggy Creek continues to embody its original spirit of hope and healing. With ongoing partnerships and continued community support, it shows no signs of slowing down its vital work. Every week, the camp remains a beacon of joy and strength for families navigating the tumultuous waters of serious health challenges.

For those who wish to experience the magic of Camp Boggy Creek or support its mission, the door is always open. It’s a place where children can just be kids, and where unforgettable memories are made every single day.

Contact Details

For more information about Camp Boggy Creek and how you can help, please reach out to Carlos Roa, the Senior Director of Press and Public Relations at the VoLo Foundation at +1 (786) 277-7566 or via email at [email protected]