Camp Dream Street Gave Sick Kids Some Time for Fun

Camp Dream Street certainly lived up to its name.

Held at the Kaplen Jewish Community Center on the Palisades in Tenafly from Aug. 22-26, the annual camp offered children ages 5 to 14 with cancer or other blood disorders and their siblings a few days to dream big and have some fun.

The camp, which is free to participants, focused this year on soccer.

Matt Higgins, who was recently named head women’s soccer coach at Ramapo College, organized the games and training sessions. Higgins, who is also president of the Franklin Lakes-based English Pro Soccer and FC Jersey Premiere Girls Academy, was accompanied during the week by members of his teams who volunteered their time.

The week-long camp, in its 22^nd year, was a resounding success, said Daniela Maddaloni, one of the camp’s instructors.

“The kids loved it,” said Maddaloni.

Doctors and nurses are also on hand to supervise the activities of the children. They donate their time to the cause.

Camp Dream Street was found by Pearl Seiden, president of the JCC.  The camp began with 20 children and has grown to include more than 140 participants.