Neighbor News
Local realtor helps Shady Oaks get ready for camp
Work and need never stops at summer camp for the disabled
Though the campers may be gone until the next summer season, the work never stops at Shady Oaks Camp in Homer Glen. There are dorms to be renovated, repairs to facilities to be made and recreational equipment to be replaced.
Shady Oaks, which serves children and adults with disabilities, offers fun, outdoor activities meant to enrich the lives of those that attend. From one to eight-week camps, attendees can participate in a host of activities, enjoy meals in the beautifully renovated mess hall, and take a swim on site in the outdoor pool.
"Last year, we had 45 campers from 7 to 69 years old. Most come back every summer, so I have watched many of them grow up," said executive director Scott Steele. "We're the only special needs camp like this in the whole country, and we've been doing it for 72 years."
To offer a wide array of activities, Shady Oaks needs lots of recreational safety equipment, which can be quite costly.
"Every year, our recreation supplies need to be replaced and it's not cheap. An average life vest is about $50, but one that offers additional head support for special needs is $250."
Chris Fischer, owner of Crosstown Realty Inc. in Homer Glen, learned of this need at Shady Oaks Camp and decided to try and help. Hosting his second annual Crosstown Fest on September 29, Fischer earmarked all proceeds to benefit Shady Oaks.
The free fest, which was held at Crosstown's office at 14300 S. Towncenter, drews hundreds of local families to participate in children activities such as a bouncy house and facepainting, carnival type games, raffles and silent auction.
Crosstown Fest raised $3,000 and Fischer delivered the check to Steele on a recent visit to the camp. "We think Shady Oaks offers a phenomenal service to the disabled and their families in our community, and wanted to get involved," Fischer said. "Growing up in Homer Glen, I never realized how big Shady Oaks Camp is and what a special resource it is in our community."
In addition to monetary donations, Shady Oaks needs volunteers in the fall to help with raking and property clean up. To learn more, visit www.shadyoakscamp.org.
"We definitely plan to be out there and helping in any way we can," Fischer said. "My team and I would love to come in and make a difference for these families and the dedicated staff here."
