In 2012 Diabetes Partnership of Cleveland received a $235,900 grant from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust to use to improve Camp Ho Mita Koda, its camp for children with diabetes in Newbury. The funding supported the construction of a new recreational pavilion at the camp which was recently completed in time for the opening session.
Partnership board members, staff and friends came together June 15 for a celebration to see the new building, tour the camp and enjoy an evening in the outdoors. The pavilion will be used for large group activities, team sports and other programs. The space accommodates approximately 175 people and will be available for private rental.
“The construction of the activity center will make it easier for our staff to provide high-quality management of diabetes for our campers since we will be able to keep them active during all camp sessions. When it rains, our children did not have a place to actively play because of a lack of indoor space. This facility provides that space,” says Tina Milano, president and CEO of the Diabetes Partnership.
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The firm of Bialosky and Partners, Beachwood, provided the architectural plan and worked closely with Korner Construction, Mantua. A volunteer, Branden Keeper from Swagelok, acted as a general contractor.
Camp Ho Mita Koda, owned by Diabetes Partnership of Cleveland, is located on 72 wooded acres in Geauga County and is one of the oldest camps for children with diabetes. It is open eight weeks each summer to provide children with the opportunity to learn lifelong wellness habits in a supportive, active and fun-filled environment.