Laserfiche WebLink
r' <br /> Page 4 of 5 <br /> language"—as well as a beautiful mix of children from Madison's own <br /> mosaic come together to experience what is, without a doubt, the finest day <br /> camp program in this community. Some children may be in wheelchairs and <br /> some have serious behavioral or physical problems—all are and have been <br /> welcome, and all have a great time. <br /> At its beginning in 1954, two counselors were part of Camp Shalom. Today, <br /> more than 70 individuals make up the staff, many of whom attended Camp <br /> Shalom as children. The camp staff, like the campers, is a mixture of races, <br /> religions, languages, talents and backgrounds. All are committed to helping <br /> children excel in this wonderful day camp program. <br /> Each day at Camp Shalom is an adventure. In addition to group games and <br /> activities, the daily program includes arts and crafts, singing, a"hobby hour" <br /> with scores of different options, recreational swimming, and Jewish theme <br /> programming. Camp Shalom Noar is an"adventure" camp challenging the <br /> campers to grow and learn. Once during each session, campers participate in <br /> special evening events involving family members, counseling group <br /> presentations, and sleep-overs for the older campers. These evening programs <br /> attract multi-generational families, friends and alumni of Camp Shalom. The <br /> Camp Shalom Noar 6th-8`h grade program includes an overnight camping <br /> experience at a State Park. The Camp Shalom Noar 9th grade program <br /> includes a four day/three night canoe/camping trip. <br /> Camp Shalom has been honored by the League of Women Voters with its <br /> distinguished citizen award. Various Dane County Executives and Madison <br /> Mayors along with Gov. Tommy Thompson have issued proclamations in <br /> recognition of Camp Shalom's more than four decades of service. <br /> Camp Shalom made a commitment forty-four years ago which it has always <br /> kept: no child would be denied a Camp Shalom summer because of family <br /> finances. Five years ago, 99 full and partial scholarships were awarded <br /> totaling $29,903. Last summer, Camp Shalom has awarded 180 scholarships <br /> totaling nearly $60,577 That is a 100% increase in just five years. All <br /> scholarships are awarded based solely on financial need. The average family <br /> income of those receiving scholarships five years ago was $16,081; last <br /> summer the average family income was barely $13,000—the poverty level of <br /> Camp Shalom scholarship recipients is worse than five years ago. <br /> We intend to utilize the existing house for both Camp Shalom as well as for a <br /> year-round educational and retreat center. We also intend to use the facilities <br /> which are to be developed year-round for programming purposes. <br /> Among our development plans over the years are the following: Outdoor <br /> handicap accessible aquatic center with regulation lap pool, educational and <br /> recreational swim area, shallow children's area, diving well, bathing/locker <br />