Camp that helps children harmed by fires celebrates 25th anniversary

Posted on June 28, 2015

I Am Me Campers — *The camp provides burn victims between the ages of eight and 16 with programs and activities to rebuild self-esteem. (Photo Courtesy of IFSA.org/camp-I-am-me)*

By Andy Dahn

BLOOMINGTON – A camp held last week aimed to heal emotional scars of children who have been harmed by tragic fires.

Illinois’ “I Am Me” camp celebrated its’ 25th anniversary. Illinois Fire Safety Alliance Executive Director Philip Zaleski said the program provides burn survivors between the ages of eight and 16 with a safe and non-judgmental environment to build self-esteem.

“The campers may have issues with how they look after an accident may occur,” Zaleski said. “But they need the mental support as well.”

Campers participated in special activities that deal with the specific needs of burn survivors. Zaleski said the program has a tremendous impact on campers.

“It’s one week of camp where the kids get to be around other burn survivors and get to share their stories,” said Zaleski.”It’s part of the healing process. That’s what makes this camp so unique and so beneficial for all these kids.”

Activities include archery, board games, boating, campfires and many more. The cost to send one child to the “I Am Me” camp is over $2000, but numerous donations allow the program to be provided at no cost to campers.

More information about the camp can be found at www.IFSA.org/Camp-I-Am-Me.

Andy Dahn can be reached at [email protected].

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