What do our partners say about Camp Sunfish?
Here's what we hear from the shelters, social workers, and treatment centers that partner with Camp Sunfish.
As an adult think back to when you had the opportunity to try something totally new to you. It's exciting, and the anticipation of what's going to happen makes you nervous. Then you get pulled behind a boat on an inner tube, ride on a personal watercraft, and go on a pontoon fishing all in the same day. Those are just some of the experiences the children we serve at St. Joseph's Home for Children have when we visit Camp Sunfish. They talk for days about the things they did. When they see themselves in pictures that are taken while there, the smile on their face says it all. The children and our agency are very blessed to be associated with a wonderful group of people who truly know what it means to give of themselves.Dick Bain, Supervisor, St. Joseph's Home for Children
Camp Sunfish began 6 years ago with a dream; 2 volunteers and 1 shelter. Today Camp Sunfish has branched out to various shelters and treatment facilities throughout Minnesota. Branching out has created a network of friends and somewhat of a surrogate family for children remaining in child protection for lengthy periods of time. Camp Sunfish's return year after year has created consistency, familiar territory, and familiar faces. Consistency in the life in one of these children can make a huge difference. Camp Sunfish also works as a great behavior modifier for children wanting to return on the next camp date. Children develop self-esteem by learning how to trust adults on unfamiliar water activities which is often a first for many of the children. Unfamiliarity begins to be a positive influence in their life verses a negative force. In the 19 years I have worked with the children, I have seen their hearts dimmed, Camp Sunfish makes them shine! I want to give my thanks to all the sponsors and the amazing volunteers who make Camp Sunfish possible. Your generosity is proof there are still people in the world who genuinely care. Special thanks to Jean Giovetti for giving of herself so unselfishly for all these years. We love you!
Karen Reiter, Client Program Coordinator, Shelter Care for Kids
Unforgettable. For two days you and the staff of Camp Sunfish treated us to some awesome fun activities that have made lasting memories for our staff and students. We felt special to be given the opportunity to relax and play as a team without needing to worry so much abut behavior modification, point penalties, and all the other fun stuff we've managed all school year. Our time spent at Camp Sunfish felt truly therapeutic from many perspectives and we are grateful for the opportunity we had to spend time with the fun and compassionate volunteers. The staff at Koinonia deserves kudos as well. The meals were fantastic. As one child said during dinner the first night, "I feel like I'm at Kentucky Fried Chicken"! I felt like we were visiting a premier resort with the courteous and quality service that was provided. If there is anything I can do to continue to promote your mission, I would offer our support. We have all been impressed with your organization and how well you provided a service based on your benevolent mission statement and vision to promote a source of hope and strength in children who are working through life's challenges. Keep up the solid work!
Roy Neumann, M.S., Program Manager, Catholic Charities Day Treatment Program
