Camp John Marc Benefits Kids
So they established Camp John Marc in Bosque County, TX which even operates in the off-season and offers affordable camp, less than other disabled-oriented camps charge.
On Feb. 24th 18 of Dallas’ best local chefs clamored to prepare signature dishes to benefit the camp in a fundraiser.
“They live and play with kids who are dealing with a similar diagnosis,” said Camp John Marc Executive Director Vance Gilmore.
The 135-acre camp was inspired by Jan and Marc Myers for their son, John Marc in 1987 and they donated land for it.
In 1991, the first year the facility was in operation 555 kids participated. That number grew to 1230 in 2002.
Health organizations served include asthma, childhood cancer, heart disease, hemophilia, juvenile arthritis, kidney disease, muscular dystrophy, sickle cell anemia, burn survivors, and spina bifida in the summer. During the off-season childhood cancer, deaf/blind, gastrointestinal disorders, at-risk youth, craniofacial disorders, HIV, limb differences, MDA, sickle cell, spina bifida and transplant patients are served.
“I will always cherish memories from Camp John Marc,” said one student volunteer. “I look at them and draw inspiration.”
Surrounding the eight-acre lake and fishing pier are tee-pee and tree house themed camping areas, beach access pool, arts and crafts. administration and medical buildings, athletic field, multi-purpose barn, challenge course, amphitheater, nature trails, riding ring, dining hall, 20 cabins, director’s house, chapel, and staff/family lodges.
The total average weekly cost per participant is $400 and amount paid by groups is $150. The deficit absorbed by the 501�© (3) non-profit camp is $250.00.
Necessary daily medical treatment is provided to all campers by community and medical volunteers and there are also weekend groups.
In the 1960s camping programs for children with special health needs emerged in this community and in 1983 a concerned member of the area began to question the need for a permanent camp for kids with chronic illnesses. In May 1986 a community task force in camping for children with special needs was formed.
In Feb. 1990 the camp was selected to be one of the chosen charities of Crystal Charity Ball. The grand opening of Camp John Marc was held June 1, 1991. The second annual campership drive was held in May 1993 raising $135,000 and that summer 962 campers were served during the third summer season. In the fall of that year off season use is extensive. In December 1993 the camp was awarded the Eleanor P. Eelis Award by the American Camping Association (ACA).
At the camp campers sign up individually for a daily one-hour activity to teach a skill based lesson such as pottery, swimming, darkroom, rappelling, cooking, dancing, sign language, and others.
The camp at 2824 Swiss Avenue in Dallas may be contacted at 214-360-0056.
