Summer camp is one of the most special experiences that a child can have. It gives youth an opportunity to build their independence away from mom and dad, make lifelong friends, and take on lots of fun, exciting outdoor activities – from hiking to water skiing to campfire sing-alongs.
As we approach the 60th anniversary of CNIB Lake Joe in the summer of 2021, we'd like to honour some of the people who've made our one-of-a-kind camp facility the amazing place that it is today.
Susan Creasy and her family have been part of the Lake Joe journey since the beginning. Her grandfather and great aunt, Wilfred C. James and Elsinore C. Burns, were both members of the Lake Joseph Planning Committee in the early stages of development in the 1960s.
Elsinore Burns went on to receive the Order of Canada for her volunteer work with CNIB, and for creating the first men's residence for veterans returning home from World War II without their sight. Currently, Elsinore's portrait hangs in our national office in Toronto, along with the fragrant garden she helped to create as a sensory experience for our participants.
As a child, Susan would watch her mother, Betty, read books and textbooks onto cassettes for students at the University of Toronto who were living with sight loss. This eventually led to Susan following in her family's footsteps, working with CNIB at our Lake Joe camp.
"As a child, I had the opportunity to go to camp. My children have had the opportunity to go to camp," said Susan. "It is such a wonderful experience, whether sighted or not, so I try and get as many children and adults [to CNIB Lake Joe] as possible."
Susan was also one of the founding members of the Lake Joe Vision Team, a group of philanthropic leaders who raise funds for the highest priority needs and bursaries to boost participation at CNIB Lake Joe. The team continues to lend expertise and advice to support and guide the philanthropic efforts that power program development and delivery at CNIB Lake Joe, while leveraging their networks to help build, strengthen and steward partnerships.
When asked to describe CNIB Lake Joe in one word, Susan chose "opportunity". Whether it's physical, emotional, or developmental opportunities, she has seen it all and is able to appreciate what the CNIB Lake Joe team does for their campers. What makes CNIB Lake Joe so special, she says, is it gives the opportunity to those who may not be able to attend camp due to accessibility concerns.
"My advice to those who are wanting to volunteer with CNIB is to get involved and do your best," said Susan. "Making a contribution either financially or with your time is just as valuable. There is so much value in volunteers based on who they are and what they do."
Susan continues to provide tremendous support to CNIB Lake Joe throughout the year and hopes to go back very soon, to the place that holds so many amazing warm memories for her and her family.