Camp John Marc
Mission
Camp John Marc inspires confidence for life through high-quality camping programs for children, teens, and families. Year round programming and specialized camp facilities are uniquely designed in partnership with Dallas-Fort Worth area pediatric hospitals, community volunteers, and health organizations who are dedicated to serving campers living with chronic medical and physical challenges. The dignity of each camper is nurtured at Camp John Marc as well as in the community through its outreach programs.
History
In 1984 and ‘85, a passionate and concerned donor assembled child life specialists, doctors, social workers, camping professionals, and community members to determine the value that camping adds to the lives of children living with health challenges. Among the questions he asked the stakeholders:
How does the camping experience relate to the treatment/management of disease?
How will children who attend camp benefit from their experiences?
Could camp accommodate acutely ill children?
The group concluded that camp was a realistic, positive option that warranted significant effort and support. They also voiced a desire for a shared, permanent camping site with medical facilities.
Quickly, enthusiasm, concern and vision turned into action. The group held additional community gatherings, a task force researched medical camping, and volunteers began organizing and fundraising. Crucially, the anonymous organizer and donor gave $1 million dollars in thanks for the blessings of life and children to get the project off the ground.
By 1987 “Special Camps for Special Kids” was incorporated and filed an application for non-profit status with the IRS. The organization then formed its first Board. Susan Williams, a nurse involved in the first camp in Dallas for children diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, was chosen as Board chairman. Read more on the website.
“I love camp so much because I feel like I can finally fit in. Everyone is like me and everyone is nice. Everyone helps me and I LOVE IT! I made many new friends and I am so excited that I get to go back.”— Rebecca, a CJM Camper