Camp Dreamcatcher in Kennett Square provides youngsters affected by HIV and AIDS with free therapeutic and educational programs and a place to feel part of a whole, writes Steven Hoffman for the Chester County Press.

More than 6,000 children have visited the week-long camp since it was established by executive director Patty Hillkirk 23 years ago.

Every summer, children from the Mid-Atlantic region visit the camp to enjoy the fun activities of a traditional summer camp, while attending therapeutic and counseling programs. All of the campers are either HIV-positive or have a close family member battling the illness.

Last week, the camp welcomed a new group of 124 children between the ages of 5 and 17. Around 70 percent are from the Greater Philadelphia area, while the rest are from surrounding states.

The children join the camp for the summer session as it provides them with a safe and supportive environment. While there, they can talk about their concerns and fears with others who understand exactly what they are going through.

“Camp, to me, is like coming together with your family,” said Imani, a participant in the leaders-in-training program for teens.

Read more about Camp Dreamcatcher in the Chester County Press here.

[uam_ad id=”80503″]

.

[uam_ad id=”80502″]