Camp Horizon Inc

Camp Horizon provides transformational life experiences for both campers and counselors. The way the organization has developed curriculum and programs to serve children in the foster care system in Georgia is both impressive and impactful. It's clear that the children always come first, but the development of counselors and staff comes in a close second.

I'm grateful to have been a supporter for almost 15 years now.

Amazing organization! Truly making an impact! - AF

This organization allows youth engaged in the child welfare system to experience nature and pro-social skill building activities in a trauma-informed environment. It also gives caregivers a respite.

Camp Horizon is such an amazing organization! I have been volunteering with them for over a decade. The programming they provide for their youth population as well as families is truly extraordinary!

I have been a volunteer for 10 years now and in that time have served as a camp counselor for all 10, teen counselor for 6, a general volunteer for 10 years, and a board member for the last 5. This is such an underrepresented and worthy cause that delivers real, meaningful help to the children who have or are experiencing foster care. We serve children, foster families, as well as the natural families by providing year-round free services and programming to our children that is inclusive of family and guardians. We are growing and expanding our services and cannot say enough about our vision and mission. The children are truly worth all the time and effort spent volunteering and working with Camp Horizon is one of the greatest experiences of my life. We are smaller than we would like but the programming we deliver is impactful and meaningful to the children we mentor and provide services to. We strive to do more and we have the best staff and volunteers helping. We need more funding and volunteers to reach our goals and I can guarantee that both will be put to good use and as a volunteer, you will see firsthand the impact of your effort. Camp Horizon is my second family and happy to be paid in hugs and happy memories of helping our kids.

Volunteering with Camp Horizon is easily one of the best decisions that I have ever said yes to! I became a volunteer for the 1st time in 2017, and have told all of my friends and family that it'll be something that I continue to do for many years to come. For a camp that lasts only one week, it's life changing. There is such a tangible love and connection between each of the volunteers, staff, and campers that you truly don't experience many feelings like it. Everyone who shows up each year to the events and summer camp leads in with immense intentionality and leaves with a full heart. I can't recommend it enough!

Camp Horizon is a dynamic organization serving the youth of Atlanta. I’ve been lucky enough to volunteer with summer camp and annual programs for the last 6 years. I love the programming we provide these youth and am excited to see how we will grow with preparing these youth for success in our new curriculum.
Being a volunteer has been very rewarding. I have an amazing bond with my camper I’ve been 1:1 with for the last 3 summers, and also with some campers I’ve been able to get to know the past 6 summers.
I’ve also been able to make life long friendships with co-volunteers. They understand what Camp means and have the same heart for serving these youth.

Every year, I grow more inspired by the love, dedication, and passion the volunteers pour into Camp Horizon. Their selfless commitment to children who have suffered immeasurably is simply admirable. The organization has tremendous leadership in place to spearhead and fulfill their mission to improve the lives of Atlanta’s foster youth.

Camp Horizon continues to move and grow in an ever-changing world. Thank goodness! With colossal partner Camp Twin Lakes, our children and so our world continue to move and grow. Camp Horizon serves our Atlanta-area children in foster care by 1-to-1 camper-counselor matching for a week of love, fun and learning at Summer camp on the esteemed Camp Twin Lakes campground. Additionally, the programming throughout the year keeps volunteers, staff and camper families engaged and connected. Since 2008, I have witnessed this organization generate positive, lasting change year and year. 8-year-old campers I knew with little security if any are now 23-year-old graduates, professionals, soldiers, parents, politicians, volunteers shining in their life. This organization is powered by its people, and I am deeply appreciative of getting to be a part of its loving efforts. It has certainly enriched my life. While it is a demanding week at Summer Camp, if you are looking for a meaningful experience you will never forget, where you are creating and seeing the healing power of supportive relationship, come to an event or get in touch. You will be welcomed. I can't say enough and thank this group and its founding members and dedicated volunteers enough!

Courtney did a great job bringing together Camp Horizon this year with all the younger kiddos plus the older ones! It was the best experience. Everyone was so welcoming and the team bonding/get-to-know you games helped to make it so easy to get to know everyone!! The kiddos are so loved and they can feel the love all week long. Nothing replaces seeing their smiles at the end of the week when they’ve all gotten comfortable and gotten to know everyone!!! Ready for hug rounds again!! Also I can’t wait to see everyone!

Nothing but positive experiences with Camp Horizon. I can't wait for summer camp next year!

As a volunteer and support for almost twenty years, I can attest to Camp Horizon's direct impact on the lives of children and youth in foster care AND on the partner organizations and systems they interact with to serve their campers. Caring, safe volunteers and highly trained staff contribute to effective and intentional programming.

I’ve volunteered with Camp Horizon for over 10 years. It is truly an incredible organization. They serve a population that is often overlooked by society to help them feel valued, appreciated, and seen.

During my first summer as a Camp Horizon Counselor, I was immediately blown away by the love, support, and professionalism of the Camp Horizon staff and volunteers. The children are showered with love and respect, and are taught tools that will serve them for a lifetime. The emphasis on respect, responsibility, and resiliency instills confidence in the children at camp, and encourages them to be proud of themselves. I cannot wait to come back every year that I can. I love Camp Horizon!!

I first volunteered with Camp Horizon in 2010 for the summer camp program and I’ve never turned back since. Camp Horizon has become my family and a part of my passion for giving back. The organization embodies love, resilience, and community. You won’t find a better set of staff, volunteers, board members, and kids who have spent a day, weekend or week with Camp.

“A new day, a better day, is on the horizon,” allows us to be present and provide unconditional love and support to some of the most vulnerable children and teens in Atlanta. If you’re looking for a nonprofit to support or volunteer with, look no further.

DONA NOBIS PACEM = Grant us Peace

I have been part of Camp Horizon since the age of 9 yrs old and I'm now 33 yrs old. They have made a great impact on my life. They helped build and mold the person I am today. They are a great organization/ family that will be there for the youth for the rest of their lives. The life lessons, the one to one counselor camper aspect, the love this is what Camp Horizon is all about.

Camp Horizon is the purest form of affirmation of why we are here on Earth-- to build one another up, to challenge with purpose, and to love unconditionally. I believe that camp is the single most important protective factor for the youth that we serve. This is evident in the faces of the campers on Friday afternoon-- bittersweet joy that this week happened and that it is so quickly over. Camp is the one place that many can be their true self, try something new, feel safe in all different definitions of the word, and experience love beyond conditions.

My first summer at Camp Horizon, I had the pleasure of working on Camp Twin Lakes staff where I was able to see how almost 15 other camps worked to meet the needs of their campers. Over the next several years, I continued working with Camp Twin Lakes to see almost 60 different camp organizations and how they operated. I can say with confidence that no one does it better than Camp Horizon. Camp Horizon is founded with love and campers first, tailoring the experience to the unique needs of the youth we serve. Camp Horizon also cares about their volunteers, as evidenced by the staggering return rate and close personal relationships that are formed, many lasting a lifetime.

Camp Horizon is hug rounds, laughter, tears of pride, challenges, dance breaks, bug spray, swim lessons. Camp Horizon is also community, resilience, and love. I want to return to camp because who wouldn't want to be a part of something so powerful. I want to return to camp because Camp Horizon feels like coming home.

Through volunteering for over 20 years, I have seen first-hand the transformation that can occur during the programming of Camp Horizon. Whether the week-long summer program, weekend teen programs, and year-round outings and workshops, the youth of Camp Horizon are sponges for the attention, time, and careful programming. Youth learn the importance of the Camp Horizon 3R's: responsibility, respect, resiliency. Most importantly, there are numerous reports of youth taking the lessons from Camp Horizon back into their homes. For example, when learning how to self regulate using strategies such as deep breathing, sensory tools, or moving your body, a young boy cued his foster mother to use a strategy to regulate when frustrated by traffic. Youth who are well defended and nervous, become those who seek out hugs and positive words of affirmation. Camp Horizon is vital to these foster children and their families to bring a positive impact on their lives, regardless of challenges!

I have been volunteering with Camp Horizon for years, but this year 2022 was my first summer camp with them. It was magical! The little camper I had is an 8 yr old girl with the most beautiful spirit. They also made sure my little camper had what she needed with her dietary needs and we had other campers that had different needs and it was amazing to see how everyone was tended to. At times it was challenging, she had a tough time transitioning from one activity to the next. As an Army Brat I understood that, kids that have been in foster care or still are do not know what to expect next. Camp Horizon made this easier for us by having the activities listed for each day.

We carried our schedules with us and she and I would check to see what's next or what's the schedule like for the next day. I witnessed so much growth not just within my camper but other campers as well. There was so much more support than expected, not just within the counselors but the whole camp. The language of camp is something I took with me into the real world. When the week came to an end the campers were not the only ones who were sad that it came to an end. It felt like we entered a welcoming, supportive, inclusively loving world and at the end of that week we all traveled back to our regular programming, with the memory of Camp in our hearts.

What Camp Horizon does at Summer Camp is wonderful, literally full of wonder! Not only that but Camp Horizon were a step ahead of the state of Georgia when they implemented a mentorship program for kids that aged out of the foster care system. Allowing these kids to get help with applications for college, writing resumes, and just teaching them to adult. The events they have throughout the year allows us to get together and continue to support the kids. My wish is for Camp Horizon to have the funds they need to help all the kids that have gone through or still are in the foster care system!

I review applications for many, many nonprofits in my role on the Kars4Kids Small Grant program committee. Camp Horizon's stood out to us - their passion for giving foster children a positive summer experience and consistent mentoring support is infectious! This inside look at what they do is heartwarming and inspiring: https://www.kars4kidsgrants.org/our-grantees/camp-horizon-gives-foster-children-consistent-supportive-adult-relationships/

Camp Horizon's foundational program is a weeklong residential Summer Camp for children in Foster Care ages 8 - 11. With 1-1 counselor pairings, this week is transformational for both the kids AND the adult volunteers.

Camp Horizon is more than a summer camp, it is a place where children who have experienced trauma can feel safe and loved. It gives children the opportunity to regain their self-esteem and form strong, healthy, and lasting relationships with adults. Having been a volunteer for almost ten years, I can honestly say that the impact Camp Horizon makes on its campers is truly incredible and life changing. I have seen children come to summer camp scared and unsure of themselves and blossom into the outgoing and brave child they are on the inside, in less than a week! Not only does this amazing transformation happen at summer camp, our campers continue to evolve in our teen Leadership Development program. In this program, they learn life and leadership skills that will stick with them for the rest of their lives and assist them in becoming healthy, productive adults. Camp Horizon is a family to all of its campers and volunteers. I am so proud to be a part of this organization.

Camp has been a life-changing experience for me. I've made so many incredible friendships with the other counselors and I have a forever bond with my camper.
I'm already looking forward to next year's camp because it's so refreshing to be more focused on someone other than myself. These kids make me a better person. They fill my heart and make me smile and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to spend time with them.

My first summer at camp was everything I imagined and more. I went into the start of the week with an eager heart and excitement for the children I would meet. My first camper, Lacey, was a 10 year old girl with a big heart and an even bigger singing voice. Our relationship was tough at first because I had to gain her trust, but once she let me in, we flourished together for two summers and I got the chance to watch her grow into a confident young girl. Camp Horizon is the place to go to make an impact for kids who deserve the world and are given the chance to have a fun week where they explore themselves more!

I LOVE Camp! An opportunity to love and support Atlanta's foster youth through meaningful programming!! Once you begin spending time with this amazing children you are always a part of the Camp Family!

I have been involved with Camp Horizon as a volunteer in a variety of capacities since 2008. It has been awesome seeing how the organization has grown and evolved during that time.

As someone lucky to have two loving parents that facilitated a wonderful childhood for me and my brother, being able to help expose our campers who are not as fortunate to know what that feels like is an incredibly humbling and rewarding opportunity.

I have been given the honor to be a counselor to four different young men over the years who I learned so much from. Our bonds were formed by me getting to know their interests and desires while gently guiding their growth in things they were not as comfortable and/or familiar. Being locked in to one specific camper is perhaps one of Camp Horizon’s greatest identifiable traits to truly ensure every child feels that undivided attention.

In recent years I have transitioned to a staff role as the art instructor and it has been equally rewarding to get to interact with the wider scope of all the campers engaging their creative spirits.

Serving vulnerable youth in the foster care system requires sensitivities that can be challenging to convey without getting to experience our efforts and programming firsthand. However, I hope this and other posted anecdotes resonate to the authentic intention, love, and value we try to empower in our kids during their time as campers and beyond.

When I retired in the spring of 2017, I knew that I wanted to connect with a non-profit where I could contribute some of my time to a meaningful cause. My son and daughter were volunteering at Camp Horizon and I had heard amazing things from them about the program and it’s impact on Atlanta foster kids. It made sense to make this a family affair!

I was able to attend and/or bake for several functions that year before I got really brave and applied to volunteer at camp for a week (yes, sleep away)! As a senior citizen, I was gratefully assigned to be on staff and asked to focus on spreading love and sharing hugs with the campers! Who wouldn’t love that job? It was such a fabulous week! In addition to lots of hugs, I was able to offer support in many ways ... laundry, afternoon snacks, bingo and other behind the scenes activities.

My favorite part of camp, however, was sleeping in the cabin. Getting to spend time with the campers and watching the relationships develop with their counselors was amazing. The fact that Camp Horizon offers a one-on-one camper/counselor camping experience basically means that the counselors are with their campers 24/7. That is a lot of togetherness and the bonds that are created can last for many years!

It is not uncommon for a camper to join us when they are eight years old and still be participating ten years later! The consistency that Camp Horizon offers to these kids with year round programming is something that is often missing in their lives ... Camp Horizon is truly a second family for our kids!

I have been blessed to observe the positive impact on these young lives and hope to contribute in my own small way for years to come. Thank you Camp Horizon for giving me this opportunity!

I have been a volunteer for Camp Horizon for 6 years. They welcomed me with open arms when I first started. Being a volunteer for this non-profit is the most life-changing, rewarding experience I have ever had. Being able to have such a positive influence on a child in need is wonderful. Seeing these children smile, laugh, and feel so free is heartwarming. I could not see myself living a life without Camp Horizon. They are truly my second family. Camp Hugs to all!

Camp Horizon is a camp fur kids who have been neglected or abused of in foster care. They offer a one week camp in the summer and also outings through out the year. I was 8 years old when I started attending camp Horizon!!! I'm 27 and still consider this amazing group family!!! They make sure that through a 1 on 1 ration that you feel loved!!! They give you strength and tools to be resilient in life!!! We understand that life gas dealt us a rough hand in the foster care system but they make sure that you know how to play it!! Camp Horizon has changed my life and I'm happy to still be a part of a wonderful organization!!!

This summer was my first time volunteering with Camp Horizon, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. I volunteered for the week long summer camp in which each adult is paired with one amazing child to give them the attention, praise, love, and encouragement they deserve. It was wonderful to watch my camper flourish throughout the week. She accomplished everything she put her mind to, and I was so sad when we had to part on the last day, but it was great knowing that it was not "good-bye" because Camp Horizon has many events throughout the year for everyone to enjoy. This organization is truly a family, for the kids and for the volunteers, and I am so lucky to be a part of it.

As a first year volunteer, I cannot tell you how much Camp Horizon meant to me and taught me. It is by far the most wonderful and impactful organization I have ever worked with for the children it serves and the volunteers themselves. I'm already counting down the days until next years camp!

REMARKABLE! This was my first year to volunteer with Camp Horizon and I am so grateful I got to be a part of the Camp Horizon Family. A dedicated, committed, loyal and loving family that is focused on loving, encouraging and embracing young people from the Foster Care system. It was a week long Hug-Fest reminding the children that we see them , we love and we believe they are important. Encouraging them to be Responsible, Resilient, and Respectful! The attention to Self-Esteem is amazing! Blessings!

I can barely put into words how inspiring and magical Camp Horizon is. After just one week with some amazing children, I'm hooked. This dedicated organization gave their campers an opportunity they might not otherwise have gotten: to be seen and valued by adults who truly love them. The work that Camp Horizon does yields real results that you can see right away. I can't think of a more worthy reason to volunteer!

I have been a Board member at several other nonprofits and religious organizations, and Camp Horizon stands out. The most prominent reason is its tenacity. Camp Horizon has been in operation for about 25 years, with a history of overcoming a great number of challenges. The source of this perseverance is the group's sincere dedication to its mission: helping significantly disadvantaged kids in the foster care system build the life skills and confidence necessary to thrive in this world. I am proud to be part of Camp Horizon.

The week I spent at Camp Horizon last summer was one of the greatest and most fulfilling experiences of my life. You wouldn't expect to form such a strong bond with a child in just one week, but spending almost every moment with one camper you are paired with makes you love them in a way that you can't imagine until you experience it. The consolers and staff at camp create a phenomenal family atmosphere for both the campers and for the other counselors, and it feels so much like home by the end of the week that it makes it hard to leave. You will never want to say goodbye to you camper and you will try and see them every chance you get through outings that Camp Horizon has throughout the year. I could not recommend this organization strongly enough. I can't think of a group more in need of love, support, and affection than these foster children from backgrounds of abuse and neglect, and I can't imagine an organization that could provide those things better than Camp Horizon.

Camp Horizon provides hope, love, and direction to children who, even under life's most-difficult circumstances, will undoubtedly prove to be productive members and leaders in their community. Camp Horizon is the impetus behind creating a unique platform to help children who have been abused or neglected to develop invaluable skills and feeling of self-worth. This program has changed my life as a counselor, but, more importantly, the lives of children in Georgia.

Camp Horizon, I am sure, is an absolutely invaluable experience in the lives of all who are involved. There is perhaps no other time in a child's life that he or she can receive the kind of 1-on-1 attention that is given to campers for an entire week at camp, and to receive that kind of attention in such a loving, encouraging, and nurturing environment is truly a blessing. The week spent at camp is like therapy.

One of the best things about camp is the different experience that campers get to have. Experiences like horseback riding, fishing, bike riding, arts and crafts, and a class on self-esteem, among others. These experiences, coupled with the mentorship and positivity of dedicated counselors and staff members, make for a fantastic week at Camp Horizon!

I have been part of the Camp Horizon family since 2001, as a summer camp counselor, a former board member, as well as I currently serve on their staff for summer camp. For over 13 years I have had the privilege to be a part of this amazing organization that literally heals and repairs the lives of children that have been abused and/or neglected from the metro Atlanta area. This organization gives each child unconditional love and positive encouragement, as well as teaches them how to get through the ups and downs of life. It is not just a week at summer camp that is provided, but a continual support system that lasts through their adolescence through weekend outings and other events. As teenagers our campers are taught many life skills to prepare them for adulthood, and most importantly they are taught the three "R`s", respect, responsibility, and resilience. I have witnessed children overcome major adversity that most adults cannot comprehend, much less overcome themselves, largely in part to this loving and supportive program that has changed lives for almost 30 years.
After all this time with the Camp Horizon family, I continue to be amazed at all they provide for these children and young adults with such minimum resources. I encourage anyone who reads this to consider supporting this great organization either financially or through volunteering your time.

John R.
Camp Horizon Volunteer

Camp horizon is a wonderful non-profit organization that assists children through the development of social skills and the volunteers work to increase self-determination through positive prosocial interactions. Students are taught lifelong soft skills and career related life skills to prepare them to become successful in life. Camp Horizon is a wonderful non-profit organization to get involved with if you truly care about giving back to support our youth. Also, getting involved in Camp Horizon allows you to see the growth and development of our youth as they transform and grow to become young adults with the many different programs that are involved with Camp Horizon. I have been involved with Camp Horizon for more than 13 years and I can assure you that the volunteers truly make a difference in the lives of many children.

After hearing about Camp Horizon , I knew that I wanted to become a camp counselor. Seeing the kids smiling faces and bright eyes during the week is truly heart warming. I was filled with many positive emotions during the week. I got to meet awesome kids with so much potential and loads of energy . I gave a young girl a great week and I'm truly thankful that I was able to. Camp Horizon is a family and is filled with so much love !!

I feel blessed to have gotten the chance to volunteer at Camp Horizon this past summer. From counselor training all the way to the last day, I was surrounded by constant love and encouragement from the staff, other counselors, and campers. It was a truly wonderful week in which I could help a great girl have the time of her life and forget about her stresses and worries from home. I am so glad I am now a part of the Camp Horizon family, and I cannot wait for the many more years of camp to come!

Camp Horizon is a blessing for these children. It gives them the opportunity to participate in new activities and discover new talents. They develop lifelong friends and learn social skills that are applicable to their everday lives. My own camper was given the opportunity to ride a bike, learn to fish, and realize her own intuitive tennis talent! By the end of the week, after much practice, she was able to swim across the camp pool and obtain a coveted green band, allowing her to swim in the deep end. She conquered fears, built skill, and learned to be compassionate in only 6 days. This is a non-profit with an excellent mission that does and will continue to change lives.

When I first heard of Camp Horizon, I did not know what to expect. When I arrived at Camp Horizon, three years ago, any expectations I had were left in the dust because I was having so much fun. Camp Horizon is a wonderful place filled with self discovery for you (counselor) and the camper you get to hang out with for a week. Being paired with one camper for a whole week is a blessing. You get to see the delights of a child up close. Some of these children get to ride bikes, swim, and ride horses for the first time and you get to be cheering them on. These children have had experiences hardships that I can't even imagine. They get to be children at Camp Horizon. They get to sing, laugh, and have fun. They get to give and recieve love. We as counselors get to remember what being a child felt like, with stickers, glitter, and singing really loud. Camp Horizon is big family!! :)

The amount of support and respect this camp gives to both counselors and campers alike is what makes it stands out from the crowd. And these kids know it. They come out of their shells. They have fun knowing that the adults around them aren't just authority figures giving orders, they're people who want to know about them, who care about what they care about. Who what to listen and console and lift up. These kids can look up at their counselor and see proof that there are people in the world that truly care about them. That's what Camp Horizon is all about.

This yearly camp program offers foster youth the chance to have a one to one interaction with a counselor (could be you) and it allows the youth in foster care to have time away from their normal life circumstances. The types of circumstances these children and young adults go through while they are in care are awful on average but in many cases horrific.

I have been a counselor twice and both were by far some of the most he rewarding experiences of my life. It is almost impossible to put into words the affect you can have in a foster child's life simply by "being there" for a week. During my experience as a counselor, I realized another very important factor... these foster children will change your life just as much as you change theirs.

Camp Horizon is a home away home. I am not sure how many times I can repeat this saying for people to fully understand that it is like walking through the doors at your own home. From the time you walk on camp grounds or at any place your camp family is you can automatically feel this warmth of love take over. I have been apart of this loving family for over 10yrs and it has brought great joy. I love my family with all my heart.

A couple years ago, I was walking down the path at camp talking with two other counselors. These guys had been fraternity brothers of mine, and between all of us we definitely have some stories that we will wait to tell our kids. But we were having a conversation that I never would have imagined when we were in college... we were talking about how every year, Camp Horizon changes our lives for the better and unfailingly brings out the best version of ourselves - and it seems like that applies to all the other counselors/staff members too. Everyone cares about everyone else so much, and with zero percent hyperbole or exaggeration, the three of us reached the conclusion that this atmosphere of love and kindness is probably what Heaven is like... and this one week of summer camp is about as close as you can get to it here on Earth.

Sappy and dramatic? Yes. All true? Yes!!

The word "family" has been a common theme across the reviews here, and it is with good reason - if you think of the best qualities a family has to offer, that's exactly what Camp Horizon provides for abused/neglected children: 100% unconditional love, selflessness, generosity, kindness, and constant encouragement.

I've been involved with Camp Horizon since 2006, and as a counselor and board member I have seen over and over again that this is truly a special place where magic happens every day. It is one of my favorite things in the world and I'm very, very lucky to be part of it.

Over the past 15 years I've personally witnessed Camp Horizon be a redemptive force for a forgotten demographic. We hear so much about how children in the state system don't perform as well in school and don't go on to be productive, viable, educated members of society. These children lack a common understanding of the possibilities life offers, due to minimal exposure to success and weak familial influence. You hear people speak so knowingly about the issues that plague OUR CHILDREN - our future - and they tend to speak about them in finite, concrete terms. A sad, detrimental issue that unfortunately simply IS, and cannot be fixed. You can't go around restructuring the way people think, right? Its too hard, and the system is too bureaucratic to be effective.

The only thing is, I AM one of those children, all grown up - a DFCS, Camp Horizon, High School, College graduate. I began to understand what it meant to challenge myself, to feel secure enough to shoot for the things I wanted for myself in life, because of the lessons I learned from those very special volunteers that helped me on my journey. My appreciation now as a volunteer with Camp Horizon is deeply founded in a need to give back to a group that was so important to the way I developed as a man. As I grow in my life and career, I seek to take the lessons I learned from Camp - chiefly those concerning family, humility and love - with me each step of the way.

Camper; 1998-2007.

Volunteer; 2007 - until the work is done.

I have attended many Camp Horizon events as a volunteer. There are no words to express the joy on the faces of these children. The interaction between the child and counselor confirms the committment of the counselors to the child, and the appreciation of each child is written all over their smiling faces.

J. ReShae

Camp Horizon is by far the GREATEST week of the year. The magical memories of camp remain with me throughout the year. I started volunteering as a summer camp counselor for Camp Horizon in 2008 and feel every child, counselor, and staff member I have met along the way have truly impacted my life for the better. I've had the honor of working with the same camper for the last three summers, and there isn't a day that goes by that I do think about our time together at camp. Camp Horizon gave her the opportunity to learn how to ride a bike when she was eight, swim across the pool (to earn that coveted green bracelet) when she was nine, and solve conflicts peacefully with peers when she was ten. I'm looking forward to seeing what lessons this summer will bring!

I credit Camp Horizon in guiding me toward my career path as a school social worker. And, even though I now live in Illinois, I make an concerted effort to return to Georgia every summer to see my camp family.

Camp Horizon is just great in all that it does. The camp is a week long, and in each of those seven days the 8-11 year old campers gain confidence, try new activities, learn new skills, and make new friends that they will remember for their lifetime. They often come with nothing and leave with so much. All the best to everyone involved with such a wonderful organization!

I was a board member of this organization for 3 years, a volunteer for 9 and fundraiser for 7.

I started my Camp Horizon experience as a summer camp counselor in 1999 - I was 38 years old! This wasn't your ordinary summer camp counselor experience - it was life changing....for me, the other volunteers and most importantly, the children served by this amazing organization. Summer camp counselors are partnered with ONE camper for an entire week - to share in the fun activities all children enjoy at camp - but one of the most important things that takes place during the weeklong camp is giving unconditional love to children who may have never experienced it. The camper/counselor relationships grow over the week and continues on for many years later; as Camp Horizon provides programs for foster youth up through age 21.
After a week with my 10 year old camper Mikita, I decided to become involved with the organization by volunteering my time doing marketing communications and then as the part time development director. I was always impressed by the passion and commitment of the camp staff, executive director, board members and volunteers.
Even though I moved to California 3+ years ago, I regularly keep in touch (via facebook) with the former campers who are in their 20's - those that I met in my early years at camp. I am so proud of the young adults they have become - for the decisions they've made in their lives, for being so resilient, for being supportive of each other.... all these many years later.

Camp Horizon has been and will continue to be a blessing to thousands of children, teens and young adults who are become part of the Camp Horizon family.

I first learned about Camp Horizon from my cousin. She is a volunteer each summer (and during the year for fundraisers etc). Her passion for the camp and her partnered camper are inspiring. I know the camp touches the lives of children each year and through their lives. I am proud to support her work there.

I have been a part of the Camp Horizon family for 14 years. When I first started with camp I knew I wanted to work with kids but was very nervous that I would not know how to interact or have anything in common with these kids. After the first couple days I realized there is not much difference between these kids and other children except the unfortunate background they grew up in & the consequences they now have to endure due to their parents decisions.

I think I have had a bit of a different experience than most of the volunteers at camp. From the start I was a staff volunteer, the one assigned & one of the very few allowed to take photos of the children. Due to the background of the children & the fact they were in State custody most of our children are not allowed to have their photos taken. This includes school photos, year book photos, & even just photos of them having fun at camp. When I first started with camp the only pictures I was allowed to take to publish & promote Camp Horizon were images that did not show any of the children's faces. Any image that I took of a child with their beautiful face showing could only go to that child directly no counselor, staff or any other adult was aloud to have them. Being a professional photographer I know when most people look at a photograph they want to be able to connect with the person in the image by seeing their eyes, their smile, & their emotion. When all you can see is the back of someones head it is that much harder to make a connection. For many year I was one of the lucky few able to see the beauty, love & joy in the eyes & expressions of these amazing children everyday they were at camp. It is a blessing every volunteer of Camp Horizon wants to share but can really only due by stories.

Through out the 14 years I have been with camp many of the children that I got to know when they were 8,9 & 10 are now in there 20's. A few of our kids have been adopted in that time as well & today the images you see on the Camp Horizon web site are of children who have been adopted & are allowed to have there image shown or they have aged out of the state system at 18 & gave us permission to use their images to promote a camp that has meant so much to them over the years. But there are still so many that remain in the shadows.

When I first started photographing the kids of Camp Horizon it never dawned on me how important these images actually were. As I said I have gotten to see a lot of our kids grow from an innocent child to graduating from high school, going on to collage, military service, marriage & even starting families of their own. By the grace of God I have been blessed to be a part of & photograph some of those milestone moments in these, now, young adult's lives. But it wasn't until I had one of the girls who grew up in the Camp Horizon family tell me what those early photos taken at camp meant to her that I really understood how something that seemed so small could be so important.

Most of us have photos taken of us from the time we are born, throughout our childhood, & at every important event in our lives. Usually so many photos are taken of us we take it for granted. That former camper told me as I photographed her maternity photos before the birth of her beautiful daughter, that the photos taken of her at camp were the only photos she had of herself growing up as a child. These would be the only photos she had to share with her daughter as she grew up. I have never felt more blessed than at that very moment, that God gave me this talent of capturing beautiful moments in the lives of others. The blessing of being a part of Camp Horizon & the lives of these special children and the chance to capture their laughter, friendships, first experiences, accomplishments & important milestones in their childhood I no longer take lightly. Camp Horizon is a place that brings the joys of childhood back to every child & adult that is a part of it.
Karen Burns - Karen Burns Photography

I have heard many wonderful, Successful stories regarding Camp Horizon. With volunteering under my belt, this is an organization That I would like to become a part of. Hearing the success stories bring tears to my eyes and are Very moving.

WE have heard many stories from those directly involved with Camp Horizon. Many positive memories and moments with the kids as well as staff during camp week or other camp activities throughout the year. Many of the kids find a 'family' within this organization... Somone to lean on and share conversastions, Just an all over positive , wonderful camp.

Camp Horizon is more than just a week long camp. Many of the campers have constantly been tested. They're kids that have been through too much. Camp Horizon gives people the chance to forget about some of the burdens that come with everyday life. We have the chance to make difference in a child's life. We also get to sing and dance like children. And have the chance to appreciate things like three meals a day, which some of campers do not get to have. Most importantly, the kids are loved for a week where they can just be a kid. Camp Horizon provides these kids the opportunity to live in the sunshine.

Camp Horizon has been a part of my life for 15 years! I volunteered as a camp counselor for 6 years and have done numerous outings and fundraising as well. I have known many campers through this time and I can tell you that the Camp Horizon family really is just that, a family! When the kids get together you can tell they have this amazing bond, with their counselors, the staff and each other. I am proud to be a part of this organization and know for a fact the positive influence it has on children who do not have those positive role members or even a family home to live in. The programs Camp Horizon provides are sometimes the only continuity these children have. They absolutely LOVE Camp Horizon and grow to be positive adults and expect more of themselves because of this additional family support!!

I have heard stories, from those directly involved with Camp Horizon, about countless tender, poignant moments during camp week or other camp activities throughout the year, when a child's heart has been opened, a loving hand is extended to another camper, or hope is instilled in a dejected soul. Thanks for all that you do to elevate humanity!

Camp Horizon changes lives. Period. Summer camp is a week long, and in each of those seven days the 8-11 year old campers gain confidence, try new activities, learn new skills, and make new friends. Counselors are 110% dedicated to making their camper's experience the best it can be, and through those efforts, each counselor/camper pair develops an inexplicable, special bond. Camp Horizon is more than an organization, it's a family, and it's the authentic love, passion, and commitment of the staff and volunteers that has kept me involved in the organization for years. Words do not do this organization justice - volunteer for yourself and you'll see first-hand the important, positive impact Camp Horizon makes.

I've been involved in Camp Horizon since I was a little girl, now I'm 21 years old. Camp Horizon is the BEST thing that has ever happened to me in my life. Camp has made me the woman I am today. I've always felt alone, has had low self esteem, and felt like I'd never be notice by anyone, and always been shy. Camp Horizon has changed everything for me. I no longer feel alone with such great people in my life, I don't have low self esteem anymore. You know, Camp Horizon enlightens things for you that you'd never think were possible. When you're involved with such a great Organization, your life gets better. You're surrounded by people who actually cares, makes you want to strive harder for things, is there for you when you're facing a tough challenge. and helps you get through it. As I write this, it's so hard for me not to tear up. These people are my family, has helped me become more comfortable in my skin, made me realize my worth, is the reason I love to smile. The only thing that really brings a smile to my face is Camp Horizon, it's a place where you leave all of your problems at home, heck, even forget what they are, show's you what FUN/LOVE is , EVERYONE shines at Camp, you'll never be forgotten, or feel left out. Camp will give you the best unforgettable memories, and at the end of the day, you'll realize you have another FAMILY!

As we enter our 31st year of serving children in Foster care, I am blessed to have participated for 25 years as a Counselor, Instructor, Staff Member and Board President. My memories and heart are FULL of life-changing experiences for me and scores of children. I have stayed in close contact with two of my former Campers, seeing them both graduate high school and college (GSU and Emory), becoming solid citizens and impressive young men. Without a father-figure for these young men, I'm proud to be "Dad". For dozens more, through Camp Horizon, I know I have helped shape their lives and am a better person for their imprint on mine.

I have been involved with Camp Horizon for 3 years. I am truly amazed at how wonderful this organization is with their dedication to the children. I first heard of this group from a teacher friend. It was something I wanted to get involved in. What I saw my first visit was a tight knit group. It was not a fly by night operation. It was a group of caring adults putting everything they had into giving back to the children who attend. But I was more amazed to see the leadership of the "older" children. These individuals also put all they have into events to make sure the "younger" feel loved, accepted, and cherished. Camp Horizon has events all throughout the year. They don't just touch base with the kids at summer camp. They continue to touch their lives on a regular basis. I am forever changed by these kids. I am forever changed by the volunteers. If I had to give one word that describes this organization it would be FAMILY!

“I went to camp and had the best time. It really does a lot for someone who feels alone and like they have no one. It also gave me something to look forward to, which in foster care is a rare thing.” This powerful statement from a former camper sums up the impact Camp Horizon has on the children who attend.

Camp Horizon is so much more than a weeklong camp. Once children attend the summer camp, we strive to keep them involved in our year-round programs. The campers become a member of the Camp Horizon family. The feelings and magic of camp resurface during the reunions and help lead to long-term growth.

Camp Horizon’s programs provide a fun-filled break from the life the children encounter at home. The experiences expose them to a wonderful world outside their daily lives; a world filled with love, guidance, and support. Through constant positive attention and unconditional acceptance, the children begin to see themselves in a whole new light.

Since 1994, I’ve seen countless lives changed through Camp Horizon. The transformation that takes place is an amazing sight to behold and is difficult, if not impossible, to put into words. For that reason, I encourage people to get involved to experience it first-hand.

I learned about Camp Horizon about a year ago when I was exploring volunteer opportunities. My goal was to find a local, volunteer opportunity that aligned with my interest in working with children whose lives had been impacted by abuse or neglect. I initially spoke with one of the Camp Horizon Board members to learn about the organization and was struck by the passion and commitment I heard as they described Camp Horizon to me. I connected strongly with the Camp's Mission due to experiences I had as an intern therapist. In that role I witnessed the negative effects of abuse and neglect on children, but I also witnessed children's positive response and ability to thrive when provided with acceptance, compassion, support, and positive role models. Since joining the Board of Camp Horizon, I had the opportunity to participate in the Leadership Development Weekend for alumni campers, ages 12 - 18. The maturity, compassion, and positive attitudes of the campers I met that weekend are strong testimony to the value of Camp Horizon's programs. I commend the Camp Horizon Board, Staff, and Volunteers for programs that are focused, well organized, well executed, and most importantly, so very important to the lives of the children they connect with.

In my 7 year involvement with Camp Horizon, I have met individuals that have shown endless amounts of courage, witnessed love without fear, made friends to last a lifetime, and seen generosity that knows no bounds... and that's just through the campers! My experience has truly been life changing; I constantly tell friends and family that my week as a Camp Horizon volunteer is the "best version of me" that exists. Whether teaching a child to ride a bike, catch a fish for the first time, or simply overcome everyday fears of trust or abandonment, this organization provides a safe and caring environment for children and teens that have previously suffered through abuse and neglect. As rewarding and valuable as it is for the campers that participate in Camp Horizon's summer camp and other events throughout the year, I firmly believe that volunteers benefit just as much by experiencing the bonds that form through true selflessness. Caring and loyal volunteers, led by the consistency and organization of tremendous leaders, and aided by the generous donations of loving individuals and organizations create an atmosphere that has helped hundreds of at-risk children and teens that have previously suffered through abuse and neglect.

Whether you donate $7 dollars out of your pocket or 7 days during your summer to this organization, a child's life will be forever changed. I do not hesitate in saying that your life will, as well.

I've been involved with Camp Horizon for over 6 years now and it has become something that runs deep within my soul. Every year I am lucky enough to see first hand how one week can mean so much to a child in need. The relationships formed between a counselor and a camper become relationships that last a lifetime. Camp Horizon would be a wonderful organization if they only held a one week camp every year but what sets this organization apart from many others is the loving people that plan and develop activities throughout the year. Not only that, but they continue to care about these kids after they outgrow Camp Horizon through the organization of camps and programs that follow these kids through their young adult lives. I am proud to call myself a volunteer for Camp Horizon and an organization that strives to make a difference to so many kids that deserve the love that they so long for.

When you open your heart and allow unconditional love to flow, miracles happen. Camp Horizon is the embodiment of this thought. I have been a volunteer with Camp Horizon for many years and I have seen so many children - defensive, closed, unsure - blossom in a week, in a year, in ten years of being involved with Camp Horizon into smiling, glowing, bursting full of energy young adults that are full of life and positive reinforcement. We consider ourselves a family at Camp Horizon and we are committed to children – not just through summer camp and leadership development programs – because life does not stop there. The systems have failed them, their families have failed them, but Camp Horizon continues to support these young adults through the challenges they face. Many of these young adults come back to Camp Horizon to support the new children who backgrounds mirror theirs and to give back to their family. Camp Horizon is a miracle. I have been honored to be part of Camp Horizon to learn how to be a better person and better parent myself. I recommend this organization for its integrity, for its commitment to mission, and for its tremendous impact on the lives of these vulnerable children.

My life changed forever when I walked into the Camp Horizon family. The positive encouragement, the intentional relationships, and the consistency are just snippets of how this organization affects your life, both as a volunteer and as a camper. As a teacher of students in the foster care system, I see them go in and out of schools, of houses, of families, and I see their needs: for consistency & safety, for adults to show them there is a way, for time to feel confident, for them to know they have a light to shine. Camp Horizon offers them all of this. It is what I want to do as a teacher, but can't. Thankfully, there is a place that gives them this. I hope more volunteers will want to be a part of something bigger than themselves, something that gives this kind of goodness to kids who have not gotten to experience it.

I can’t say enough good things about what Camp Horizon does and means to the population of children they provide services to. I have been a volunteer for the past few years and as an organization we always say “the magic of Camp Horizon” and I could not describe it any better.

I have been able to witness children come out of their shells and experience unconditional love, sometimes for the first time. Image never having the experiences of childhood like riding a bike or learning to swim, these are experiences campers would not have if it was not for summer camp.
In the past few years I have been able to see the growth of campers from the start of camp through the other programs Camp Horizon offers and it never seizes to amaze me. The structure and support they are given through the programs is truly life changing.

Financially, I have never seen a nonprofit stretch a dollar like the Camp Horizon staff does. They make a little go a long way. Many of the campers come to summer camp with very little and no matter what the camper needs, they make it happen.

I have been a supporter of Camp Horizon since I heard about it several years ago. The mission of this amazing program is realized each year at camp as well as throughout the year with ongoing programs. I have seen the passion and love that the volunteers have and it is contagious. Camp Horizon gives so many children the chance to build their confidence, self esteem and gives them the gift of a camp experience with their peers. Then these children have a chance all year long to reconnect with ongoing programs that add and reinforce the lasting positivity of summer camp. I am very particular about where I donate my money so that it can truly make a difference. I cannot think of a non-profit that is as impactful as Camp Horizon is for these children. I am a very proud supporter and am glad to be able to share my experience.

I have been a volunteer with Camp Horizon for many years and just can't get enough. Once you've been bitten by the Camp Horizon bug you're part of an amazingly loving family and always want more.
Being a camp counselor is one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had. Having one camper that you dedicate your full attention, love and time to for a whole week is fun, exhausting, exciting and so special. The camp family is tight and special and it extends beyond the summer into the year-round events that reunite campers with their counselors and their camp family.
Camp Horizon is so special. I get overwhelmed with emotions just thinking back about how special Camp Horizon really is. Camp Horizon is magical.

There are no adequate words to fully express the experience of Camp Horizon which is best described as a transformation. Young lives are given unconditional love and support to shape and mold them to believe in themselves-to trust that they are a person of worth.The course of life becomes not "I cannot"but rather "I can!" We all have lessons to learn and the children of Camp Horizon inspire me to believe.

I started going to Camp Horizon when I was 8 years old. I am now 22. If I could describe Camp Horizon in one word, the word blessing comes to mind. Camp Horizon has given me the strength and the support system to follow my dreams and get my life together. This organization is my family. They have helped me grow and learn and change. They have given me the extra push I needed to make it. They know LOVE and best of all they know how to share it. I can honestly say that when I had no one to turn to I could always count on this amazing organization to be my backbone. I have gotten the opportunity to grow up with an amazing group of youth that share the same struggles that I have endured but just to know that I am not alone was enough to keep me pushing forward. Camp Horizon was my escape, my vacation from the situation I was in back at home. I could be that carefree little girl that I was supposed to be but couldn't be at home. I could cry and love and feel and it was ok because this organization would cry and love and feel with me. It breaks my heart because I wish that everyone could have the experience that ive had. Even as anadult I still can call on my Camp Family and they are there and that's a blessing within itself.

I have been involved with Camp Horizon as a volunteer and now as a board member for the past 3 years. While I have worked with numerous non-profit organizations over the years, Camp Horizon is without a doubt the best organization that I've had the privelege of being associated with. Camp Horizon's unique one-to-one counselor-camper relationship for their annual summer camp, their keystone event, has an amazingly positive impact on the lives of these children. Nobody deserves to be put through what these children have had to endure, whether it be physical, sexual, or emotional abuse or neglect. Camp Horizon instills a sense of self-confidence in these children that most of them have never felt before. They are shown tremendous amounts of love and caring, and are made to feel just as important and worthy of a fair chance as the rest of us. Camp Horizon is more than just a non-profit charity organization. It is a family. Children enter the Camp Horizon family at the age of 8 and are supported by the Camp Horizon family, in an official capacity, until the time they reach age 23. This includes the summer camp program for 8-11 year olds, a leadership develop program for 12-18 year olds, and a CHAMPS program for 19-23 year olds, which helps to prepare these wonderful children for whatever challenges life may throw at them. They receive direction around resume creation, job applications, college applications, etc. These programs are all in addition to numerous other annual outings which help to keep the children engaged with the organization throughout the year, and which helps to reinstill their sense of self-worth. The difference that this organization makes in the lives of these children is tangible. Nationally, 46% of foster youth who age out of the system have not completed high school. Only 20% of foster youth enroll in college, and only 3% of foster care alumni complete a 4-year degree. Conversely, 82% of Camp Horizon youth graduate from high school and 64% enroll in college. I am proud to be an active member of this 30 year old organization, and will continue to be involved in a major capacity for years to come. However, to enable us to continue to make such a positive, tangible impact, it is critical that we receive the financial support from our community needed to administer such programs. It is my hope that as we continue to spread the word about this wonderful organization, the financial support will continue to grow as well.

Imagine giving one person your undivided attention for an entire week. No work, school, computers, phones, dishes, laundry - no distractions whatsoever. Now imagine what a week like that could mean for a child in foster care and the healing that could take place. Camp Horizon's volunteer counselors give this incredible gift to our campers. I have been involved with Camp Horizon since 1994 and I feel honored to part of this group of people who give to a cause higher than themselves. Our loyal volunteers help create a non-traditional family for amazing children who have lost their roots.

Camp Horizon is a reminder to me that there is so much more that can be done to protect our most precious gifts from God. I support Camp Horizon with both my time and finances because I know that it makes a positive impact in the lives of young people. Every child deserves a loving, supportive and stable family, however life has been unfair to numerous children. Camp Horizon is working to bridge this gap. They do this by setting good examples, encouraging good decision-making, and by letting the children know that they and not their circumstances determine their destiny.
I work for a non-profit that provides life saving organs and tissues to those in need of a transplant. All too many times while visiting the intensive care units I have witnessed the saddest outcome of children that are abused and neglected. These children were not only failed by their parents but by their community. Camp Horizon is one of the few community organizations that have been courageous enough to answer this beacon call to action year after year, by fortifying youth with self worth and pride, in short, they are building a better community.
In this world, it is my belief that we are all connected to one another, if one of us suffers then all of us suffers in some indirect way. Having said that, there is no way that I could have learned about Camp Horizon and its mission and not join it, in answering the call to action.

I have been volunteering with Camp Horizon since 2008. This organization means more to me than what I can put into words. The work that Camp Horizon does is incredible. My experience with working with these amazing children has taught me many things. Camp Horizon is very well run and organized. The director and all of the other members that run the organization work tirelessly to make Camp Horizon awesome. The first year I came to Camp as a counselor I was so nervous and really had no idea what I was getting myself into, however I had so much support and encouragement from the staff that it made the week go by smoothly. I look forward to be able to come back to Camp Horizon for many years.

I have been a volunteer for Camp Horizon for the past 30 years. I am now a volunteer, Board Member and financial donor. I am a complete convert. I was the camp nurse at the first Camp Horizon event in 1982 and have been involved in a variety of ways since. As we serve the needs of children in state custody, unconditional acceptance and respect for all persons are our guiding forces.

By the time children are in DFCS custody, there has been extreme chaos in their homes of origin. Foster children are shuffled from placement to placement, often without prior knowledge of changes forthcoming, and almost exclusively without any input regarding their preference. Despite the best efforts of case managers and foster parents, these children often feel unwanted, unloveable, and disenfranchised.

Camp Horizon offers these wounded children a safe place to begin to understanding their intrinsic value as human beings. Every activity of our Summer Camp program is carefully designed to help increase the self-esteem of these kids. The most effective way that happens, and the most unique aspect of Camp Horizon is that each child is provided with his/her own personal mentor. The people who volunteer to be counselors know that they will be assigned to be a buddy to one kid for the following week. These one to one pairings become relationships of acceptance and friendship and absolutely transform these children. They often arrive withdrawn and full of doubt and fear. During the week, throughout the classes, fun and challenges and successes, these same children absolutely blossom. They are given the affirming attention all children deserve.

While we accept the children as they come to us, they learn that we do not accept all behaviors. Our values are "the 3 R's--Respect, Responsibility and Resilience." These concepts are infused into all activities and reinforced by both counselors and administrative staff. The result of this healthy environment is that children learn to believe in their own value as they learn to make positive decisions regarding their lives. Very quickly they learn the connection between actions and consequences, both positive and negative. Once they make that discovery, they begin to appreciate and own the power they do have to change their lives. They learn they CAN control their decisions and find themselves empowered in unexpected ways.

These values continue through our Leadership Development Program for teens and young adults. We concentrate on building character and learning critical life skills. By the time these teens become adults they have had meaningful, impactful relationships with responsible and safe adults for a number of years. It is from these kids that we learned that they regard Camp Horizon as the consistent, dependable family that they needed and lacked in their lives. We grow to care deeply for these children, to be very invested in their choices and successes and in doing so, they experience the joy and importance of a healthy family.

Camp Horizon began from the efforts of well-intentioned people who wanted to contribute to the community. "Well-intentioned" remains a fit descriptor for the people involved with Camp, but it is hardly sufficient. Camp Horizon is comprised of an extraordinary group of community members who believe wholly in the vision of providing a new and better day for children in foster care. Our roster of staff and volunteers includes people from a wide variety of professions with extraordinary skill and expertise. There are people who work with children professionally--teachers, psychotherapists, social workers, child advocates, members of the health care community, and moms and dads. However, there are many others who bring personal and professional talents and skills to Camp Horizon born simply from their personal passion to provide positive intervention into the lives of children in foster care. We believe that is DOES "take a village" and Camp Horizon's village is unparalleled.

Over the years, my role has become that of "Camp Mom." It is a privilege and honor to be regarded as a mother figure to these kids. My role involves a lot of structuring and hugging. Having been involved for so many years, I have been able to develop relationships with kids that have endured from childhood to adulthood. Without exception, each of these young adults speak of the extraordinary impact that being a part of the Camp Horizon family has had on their lives. They remark that their years of involvement have changed the trajectory of their lives. They learn the power of hope and effort. They experience the exhilaration of challenges met and problems resolved. They learn personal responsibility and personal forgiveness. They learn that some people are worthy of their trust as they are genuinely invested in the progression of their lives.

Other than parenting my own children, being involved with Camp Horizon has been the most challenging and most rewarding experience of my life. My heart has been broken and mended time and time again. To be able to consistently contribute to and observe the transformation and transcendence of these children's lives is nothing short of miraculous. These kids are funny, brave and full of heart. They are endlessly curious and surprisingly insightful. They are brave beyond words and have hearts that are both fragile and strong. Once they learn to trust, their lives just open up in ways that we have grown to expect, but in ways that continue to surprise, delight and inspire us. We learn, we laugh and we love. Camp Horizon provides for these kids the opportunity for a new day, a better day on the horizon. We take that responsibility very seriously. Every person involved is better for it. We are rewarded far beyond what we give.

I have been volunteering with Camp Horizon since 2001. I learned about the organization through my then boyfriend, now husband and became a counselor. I had no idea what would happen as a counselor, but the experiences that I have had there have truly changed my life. The organization's mission is to serve the needs of a desperately underserved population, metro Atlanta children who are in or have been in the foster care system, due to abuse or neglect. The unfathomable strength and effect of this organization goes so much further than I ever realized. We become family to these children. As a counselor I got the privilege of getting to know a child, spending time with her, introducing her to new activities and showering her with encouragement and affection. However, as the years went by, I watched my 9 year old camper turn into a 19 year old young woman. The year round programming allows the volunteers the privilege of regular contact with these children....and these children, who sometimes have NO consistency in their lives, consistency, stability. They know that when they come to a Camp Horizon event there will be so many familiar faces with HUGE open arms. It has truly been an honor to watch our campers come to camp as bright eyed 8 or 9 year olds...moving into fun, sassy, smart teenagers...and then developing into young adults, exploring their adult lives, attending college and pursuing their dreams...and assisting them every step of the way. Camp Horizon is truly a FAMILY in the dream sense of the world. Many real life families are dysfunctional and our children often are the ultimate victims of that in their own families. But Camp Horizon is the ideal family...love, support, and understanding abound. All you need to do is come and we are there for you. I think that organizations such as Camp Horizon are extremely rare and I am honored to be a part of this family year after year.

When you hear the campers talk about Camp Horizon as part of their family, you begin to see the impact that the Camp Horizon organization has had on the lives of so many wonderful children. Since 1996, I have volunteered with Camp Horizon as a counselor, a life skills instructor, a part of the camp staff and as a volunteer for the programs and events throughout the year. The love, commitment and support of the volunteers and donors provides consistent year round programs and events to provide that sense of family for all the children who come through the summer camp program. It is very humbling to see kids who were once campers when i first volunteered many years ago, now as mature adults on their own path to success due in part from the life skills they learned and the unconditional love they received as part of the Camp Horizon Family.

It is so hard to put the beauty, hope and community that is Camp Horizon into words. It is a blessing to be part of a group that is giving these amazing children a place to call home and people to call family.

I have witnessed many miracles that have happened for these children as a result of coming to Camp. As a psychologist who has respect for the time that any personal change takes, it is particularly impressive to see children make changes so quickly at camp. I had a camper whose adoption was about to be disrupted by her adoptive parents due to her aggressive behavior, however her behavior changed so dramatically for the better after camp they were able to keep her in their family. I could write pages and pages about the amazing things I have seen happen for children. However, I think the words of former campers who have stayed in contact with us are even more meaningful.

"Often I couldn't bring anything with me from foster home to foster home, but I always carried my plaque my counselor wrote to me in my hands so I could always read it when things got too hard."

"It really does a lot for someone who feels alone and like they have no one. It gave me something to look forward to, which in foster care is a rare thing."

"You were caring and sensitive to me. It was a very different experience for someone in their life who never had that."

"I had never been around anyone who went to college before I met you. After knowing you were in school I thought I could do that too! You inspired me to do something better with my life."

"I come from a long line of people who thought I was a waste of human existence. Hearing these things makes you wonder if it is true. At camp they thought I was extraordinary and wonderful. At camp, I was really something. Just knowing that makes me try even harder to be a better person today."

I was introduced to the camp horizon organization last year. I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to serve as a volunteer summer camp counselor, and even luckier to be invited back this summer. I cannot put into words how amazing my week at summer camp was and how much it made a difference in my life. As a camp counselor, I was able to bear witness to the positive impact camp horizon made on so many kids in the Atlanta metro foster care system. The camp horizon organization and the people who serve this organization are so special and inspiring. The most amazing thing about this organization to me is that it provides a family and stability for kids that so desperately need it. Once a child goes to camp horizon, they are invited back every year from 8-11 years old. Every child is paired with one counselor (1 to 1) so that for one whole week they have constant access to attention, affirmations, encouragement, and unconditional love. And when possible, they are paired up with the same counselor each year so that a friendship/mentorship can grow and each child can have an adult in their life that loves them and supports them. Camp Horizon also has regular reunions, events, and outings throughout the year. I have been lucky enough to attend a Christmas party, a circus outing, and I look forward to the upcoming spring reunion. At each of those events, I have been able to reunite with my camper and see how she is doing. They also have programs for teens and many campers that are now adults, come back to events and stay in touch with the staff. The teen program has a weekend camp retreat and events throughout the year as well. Camp Horizon teaches every child that they are a promise, they are a possibility, a great big bundle of potentiality. It teaches these kids to love themselves, believe in themselves, to never give up, and know above all things that they are loved.

Camp Horizon is an intentional program designed to promote the self worth and self efficacy of every child who attends. I have had professional experiences in both working for DFCS as a case manager and currently as a psychotherapist providing mental health counseling to children and families. In both roles, I have been impressed by the impact that Camp Horizon has on every child who attends. This impact has spread into the families of these children as they come home after an event and share their experience and lessons learned. Foster mothers have provided feedback that their foster children have come home "a different child" after attending summer camp with Camp Horizon.

Working with troubled children daily allows me to see the long term effects of positive self image and unconditional support-Camp Horizon provides both of these to their campers. The curriculum is designed to build the self esteem of each child while the counselors serve as support systems for these children. For every child, regardless of their background, culture, socioeconomic status, they need to feel capable, lovable, and resilient. The magic of Camp Horizon revolves around providing these experiences to each child-teaching them skills so they learn their capabilities, providing appropriate and consistent love and support, and teaching them about their resiliency. These are just some of the many benefits to these children who attend camp.

Both professionally and personally, I feel that Camp Horizon truly makes a difference for each person who is a part of it. Summer Camp is a theraputic experience for these deserving children and young adults.

I was introduced to Camp Horizon by a friend a few years ago, and I can't wait to join the camp again as a camp counselor. The camp provides a supportive atmosphere for the campers where they can come out of their shells, forget troubles, and just be a kid for a week. I think the same applies to the volunteers! Camp is a fun, growing experience for everyone involved. In addition to the summer activities, the organization provides ongoing support and events throughout the year and as the kids grow into adulthood. A truly inspiring non-profit.

My twin and I have been apart of Camp Horiazon since the age of 10 and we are going on 21 soon. They have been such an amazing blessing to us. They have done so much and it hasnt stopped yet. They have been to our graduations, sent birthday cards EVERY year, being a mentor, but mostly a FAMILY. We are so blessed to have found such an amazing family who we can call on no matter what time or day it is. The progress we make is because of them and we arent afraid to tell ANYONE about them. Their motto is Dona Nobis Pacem which translate: Grant Us Peace and we live by that everyday. My twin brother is in the Army now and they are a main part of why he is there. My twin was thinking about giving up on school when he didnt graduate with me but Camp Horizon stuck with him and inspired him to keep going. He struggled but we were all there to help him and to keep him going, He finally graduated in 2012 and our Camp Family was there to see him walk. I cry to this day when I talk to him because I have seen his struggles and have seen him get back up countless times and every time Camp Horizon is there helping him get through it all. I cant thank them enough for what they have done for the both of us in the last 10 also 11 years. They have really touched countless numbers of hearts and souls and they arent done yet. They truly have hearts of gold and they try all day everyday to keep a smile on EACH and EVERY childs face. We are amazed at how they have helped transform so many lives and it never gets old. No matter what background we have Camp Horizon has been there to help make a better and brighter future. We just want to thank them so much for all of there hard work and let them know this isnt the end yet. Anyone would be blessed to be be at the camp and have all of the staff be apart of their lives so bring on the "puzzles" because I'm positive that Camp Horizon can piece then together.

I have served as a volunteer for Camp Horizon for many years. The Camp Horizon experience is "magical" for both the campers and volunteers. The camp provides a family like experience that fosters resilience in the most fragile youth. Children who have experienced abuse and/or neglect have the opportunity to escape their daily stressors and focus on the joys of being a child. Volunteers have an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children who need it most! Each moment of camp is sprinkled with intentional acts of love!

I have been apart of Camp Horizon since of the age 9 now that I'm 23 going on 24 I am grateful for Camp Horizon. They do great work with the many different campers that come through the organization. They are hard workers and believe in the vision of changing youth lives. Opening up the youth mind to different aspects of life and culture. Helping each and every child to open up and be their true selves. My honest open opinion we need more organizations and dedicated people like them. CAMP HORIZON ROCKS!!! We have a purpose we have potentiality and they help the campers realize this.

We have been volunteering with Camp Horizon for over 13 years and realize how important the mission of this organization is to the kids they serve. Foster care, in many cases, is a poor fix to a problem outside the control of the children who are in the system. We have witnessed year after year how this organization teaches these children what proper love looks like, and in the process welcomes each of them into a family of unconditional love. With the creation of the programs for teens and young adults the organization has been able to continue to mentor these youths through the ups and downs of these critical years to lay a foundation that will help them make their way in this world.

You can be a part of the mission through volunteering or financial support. We have witnessed personally how far this organization can stretch its resources and the sacrifices they will go to in order to serve these kids of exceptional promise. Come join the fun!

Being involved with Camp Horizon has been life changing both for the children in foster care that Camp Horizon serves, but also everyone who is involved with these children.

I have been privileged to have known some of these children from the time they were 8 years old and entered our program to their graduation from high school and college. For many of these children, the adults they have known through Camp Horizon have been the most constant thing in their lives. As they are often moved from foster home to foster home, they have very little sense of stability or self worth. Camp Horizon provides them with both stability and unconditional love.

I couldn't be more proud to be involved with this organization.

It is truly life changing.

What could possibly be more important than helping to heal the wounded heart of a child? What could demand more action than child abuse? Who could be more vulnerable than a child in foster care?

Camp horizon has no famous spokesperson. They have no advertising budget. They have no lobbyists or political action committees. What they do have are the most dedicated, compassionate volunteers I have ever known.

Because of these volunteers and the programs designed by them, 82% of Camp Horizon youth graduate high school compared to 46% in foster care nationwide. 64% of them go on to college compared to only 20% in foster care nationwide.

For over 30 years Camp Horizon has been making a positive impact on not just the lives of the children they’ve touched, but on the communities that they live in. I am proud to be a donor, volunteer and board member.

I was initially introduced to Camp Horizon through my work as a youth development and social work professional, and began volunteering in 2004. My volunteer experience over the past 8 years has given me behind the scenes access to the heart and professionalism of this organization, its staff, board, and volunteers. It is easy to see upon a visit to Summer Camp or by volunteering to assist at Outings and events, how much painstaking care goes into quality program design and volunteer training. Even more important, the number of campers turned volunteers indicate the sheer power of this program and ability to reach children and youth when and where they need it most. I'm proud to be a volunteer and donor of Camp Horizon.