A Lasting World Inc.

Most of you have heard about Camp H.O.P.E., but for those of you who are new to this site or new to A Lasting World Inc., here is a brief summary of what Camp H.O.P.E. is all about.

 

Camp H.O.P.E. is a week-long, all-expenses-paid, environmental education experience for underprivileged middle school students in Estill County, Kentucky. We bring 12 students to the camp each summer (we like to keep the number low so that there is a lot of time for one-on-one interaction with counselors and camp personnel and so that we can provide more personal items for each camper - clothing, curriculum materials, camp accessories, bedding, linens, gifts, etc. ).

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H.O.P.E. stands for 'Helping Our Planet Earth.'  We present units on Native American culture (focusing on the tribes of Kentucky), global warming, recycling, animal habitats, creek and pond studies, bats, owls and raptors, insects, reptiles, Kentucky music, trees, and more.  The curriculum is enhanced by hiking, rappelling, rock climbing, swimming, outdoor games, guest speakers, summer staff, a dining hall staff, lifeguards, and more.  

 

We do an extensive amount of 'begging' for in-kind donations, and we also ask for volunteers from our membership to 'adopt' a camper for the week.  The 'adoption' donation helps cover some of the tuition and board for the campers.

 

We feel we are touching -- and hopefully changing -- lives in a small way.  We work hard to give the kids more confidence, help build their self-esteem, and show them that there is a huge world beyond Estill County that needs their talents, gifts and caring.

 

We just completed our 16th year of hosting Camp H.O.P.E., and our dream of presenting such a wonderful experience would not be possible without the continued support of Andy and Cindy Sigmon at the Cathedral Domain Camp and Retreat Center (where Camp H.O.P.E. is held) and to the Episcopal Diocese of Lexington for opening their campgrounds and their hearts to us!

 

Camp would also not be possible without the monetary support of the Sloma Family Foundation and to the MANY, MANY others who have made monetary donations, who have 'adopted' campers, who have given their time to serve as counselors and junior counselors, and to everyone else who has played any type of role in making this experience so meaningful and so life-changing for the campers who are chosen to attend.  

 

We hope to keep Camp H.O.P.E. going for many years to come!  

 

We hope you'll continue to support our efforts!