Camp Opportunity 2017 Annual Report

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Another year has passed successfully for Camp Opportunity. We continue to move toward the goal we set three years ago — to increase the number of campers to 100. This past year we had another record increase in our camperships and volunteer base. Camp Opportunity is a nonprofit organization run entirely by volunteers who are committed to making a difference in the lives of at-risk children. Our services are entirely free to the children and families we serve. We provide a weeklong residential camping program for children who are abused and/or neglected. Nearly all of these unfortunate children have been abused to the level of being placed under the supervision of an assigned child protective services caseworker. Due to the severe damage and needs of our campers, we recruit one volunteer counselor for each and every camper we accept. This one to one approach provides a unique bond and level of attention they need and deserve. In addition to the annual summer camping program, our children are provided opportunities for activities throughout the year where we can reinforce the life lessons and love we offer each and every one of them. We have made a difference and, with continued support, will grow our efforts. There are thousands of children in Maryland between 8-11 years old who have been identified as abused. Our long term goal is to grow our program so we can have a greater impact on these young people and put them in a better position to have a successful life. Roger Hayden, Chair

ROGER HAYDEN Former Baltimore Co. Executive

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