Kathy McCormick and her family have a long history with CNIB Lake Joe. Their first time at camp was in 2002 with their oldest son Jack, and since then, someone in the family has either volunteered or worked at the camp.
“I always wanted to volunteer at Lake Joe because I think it's a great spot and changes lives. And I wanted an opportunity to give back.”
This year, Kathy volunteered with Camp Abilities week and juggled many hats! In addition to coaching blind soccer, she taught pottery, participated in campfire and mini golf, and acted as a chaperone during pontoon rides and a trip to Camp Manitou.
Adding to the fun, Kathy was able to see her other son, Clayton, a CNIB Lake Joe Driver, in action.
“It was nice to see him in his element and see how much the children loved listening to him,” says Kathy.
She says she also loved seeing the confidence boost amongst the campers and witnessing them trying new things.
“Raising a child with vision loss, I was told when he was very young to put him in situations where he doesn't know his surroundings because learning to adapt and be resilient is extremely important for a child with vision loss. You don’t want them to become fearful,” says Kathy.
Kathy explained that the willingness to try new things is an important foundation for children who are blind or partially sighted.
“It really does help them feel better about themselves in everyday life. If they go to a camp where it’s a completely safe environment that is supported, then when they go out in the community, and it's not completely perfect, they adapt quicker.”
She also pointed out the importance of CNIB Lake Joe’s philosophy: if you're trying, you’re succeeding.
“I saw counsellors encouraging children – but not pushing them. There’s a difference,” says Kathy. “They weren’t saying ‘you must do this’, but they were encouraging them in a way that they wanted to try. When they try, more doors open for them.”
In Kathy’s opinion, “CNIB Lake Joe changes lives” – the lives of campers, dedicated staff and volunteers alike.