Campers Helping Campers is an annual fund raising program that takes place from May-October and involves the generous support of staff, volunteers, campers and members of Camping In Ontario.
Who does CHC support?
Funds raised through Campers Helping Campers are used to support participants in March of Dimes Canada’s Outdoor Recreation Programs. Funds are used to subsidize the costs associated with supporting a person who lives with a disability so they can enjoy a summer camping experience. Costs that are covered include: specialized travel to and from the camp, meals, Attendant Care, accommodations, supplies and day trips.
How do I get involved?
Involvement in Campers Helping Campers requires a desire to assist in the raising of much needed funds through a wide range of activities and/or programs. Various program ideas are available (see below for suggestions) and with your help, additional support can be generated for Campers Helping Campers starting this summer.
As a camper simply approach your campground owner/manager and ask for their support of your desire to get involved in Campers Helping Campers. Depending on the nature of your idea, be sure to ask for their permission to assist in the hosting of an event or activity at their facility. Be sure to remind them, this program has been active since 1969 in hundreds of campgrounds across Ontario. Be sure to ask your fellow campers to assist, perhaps as part of a committee if required.
As a campground ask your campers or recreation committee to host a special event or activity in support of Campers Helping Campers. If volunteers are difficult to find consider some of the programs listed below such as placing a Candy/Gumball Machine or Hope with Art Easel in your campground. Corporate and Individual Donations are always welcome.
Start today by contacting:
Dennis R. Ullman
Co-ordinator, Campers Helping Campers
(905) 718-8123
campers@marchofdimes.ca
In 2011, the Top Contributors were:
- Gumball Dispensing Machine Program (new)
- Rideau Acres Campground
- Hope with Art (new)
- Chesley Lake Camp
- Break Open (Nevada) Tickets - Bensfort Bridge Resort
- Special Event - Country Gardens RV Park
- Overall - Sandy Beach Resort & Trailer Court Ltd.
What the volunteers say about Campers Helping Campers
"We started our support of CHC as a great chance to socialize and get involved with our park community. It has unexpectedly developed into many new and long lasting friendships. The real meaning of our yard sales, raffle draws, kids day, boat poker run and other events hit home when our efforts sent one of our own campers to an adult camp. We give nothing but our time and the rewards are enormous, personally, for our park community and the people we are helping."
Lynn and Scott – Sandy Beach Resort
"appreciate how the quilting retreat; for me learning something new, fun and exciting, translates into helping others have opportunities to participate and experience the friendship of camping. These are opportunities that build friendships to last a lifetime."
Tammy – Country Gardens RV Park
Program History
Since 1969, members of the Camping in Ontario (previously Ontario Private Campground Association) have volunteered their time and provided resources to support March of Dimes through a program now referred to as Campers Helping Campers. This initiative by Camping in Ontario has since grown to be a beneficial partnership for both organizations.
Prior to 1990, the program was generating approximately $15,000 - $20,000 annually for March of Dimes Canada. Through various activities revenues are now averaging over $40,000 per year. Each year hundreds of campgrounds across Ontario have sponsored special events, sold break open (Nevada) tickets, created and sold cookbooks, organized tournaments and provided personal and corporate donations in support of Campers Helping Campers. As part of March of Dimes' 60th Anniversary many new programs were introduced including; Hope with Art, Candy (Gumball) Dispensing Program and Rock for Dimes.
Over $1.3 million has been raised in support of March of Dimes Outdoor (Camping) Recreation and Integration Services Programs.
Special thanks go to the many volunteers and campground owners for their outstanding commitment to the program.
Download the Campers Helping Campers brochure.
Support Campers Helping Campers today!
We express our gratitude and best wishes to the membership of Camping in Ontario as this important partnership continues to provide life-changing benefits to everyone involved.
For further information, contact:
Dennis R. Ullman
Co-ordinator, Campers Helping Campers
(905) 718-8123 or 1-800-263-3463, ext. 7711
campers@marchofdimes.ca.
If your campground is accessible, contact us today about the possibilities of you hosting a family this summer as part of your support of Campers Helping Campers.
