Camping Program for Children Living with HIV/AIDS Seeks Volunteer Medical Personnel

AmeriCares Foundation
Monday, 26 March 2001

Three hundred inner-city children that are living with HIV/AIDS and other life- threatening illnesses will be given the chance to escape the inner city and enjoy a free, eight-day camping experience in July and August. The Camp is sponsored by Camp AmeriKids, a program of the humanitarian relief agency AmeriCares. In order to offer this experience, over 200 volunteers are needed to serve as counselors, program staff, and medical personnel. We are currently seeking New York State Licensed Doctors, Nurses, and Nurse Practitioners who can volunteer for one, eight-day camping session. The camp will take place in Burlingham, New York during the month of August.

Through AmeriCares' affiliation with major medical centers across the country, Camp AmeriKids is able to provide sophisticated medical care within the camp environment. In order to staff the infirmary 24 hours a day, doctors and nurses are needed to reside on the grounds while camp is in session. Furthermore, each camper's medical history is evaluated prior to his or her arrival, ensuring that medications are administered on schedule and that all necessary medical precautions are taken during the camp session.

The goals of the program are to develop independence, friendship and self-confidence through the building of new skills and increased abilities. Camp AmeriKids believes that every child deserves a place that they can call their own, no matter where they come from or the circumstances in which they live.

For eight days, these campers are able to put aside the issues of HIV/AIDS and focus on recreation and discovery. Along with traditional camp activities such as sports, swimming, nature, dance ceramics, radio, jewelry making, arts and crafts, etc., each day has a different theme with special activities and visitors. Traditions at Camp AmeriKids includes the All Camp Olympics, Carnival Day, and the "AmeriKids are Stars" Talent show.

For more information, or to contact AmeriCares Foundation, see their website at: www.americares.org