Seniors fulfill summer camp dreams for Chilliwack youth

Summer camp can create lifelong memories and friendships, but for many families the cost puts it out of reach.

For Brian Dickinson, his own campfire memories motivated him to go all out with a fundraising effort at the seniors residence where he lives.

Dickinson, with other residents and staff atthe Lynnwood Retirement Residence in Chilliwack,raised enough in six months to send 14 children to the Salvation Army's Camp Sunrise on the Sunshine Coast.

• Friendship begins on the playground at Vancouver camp for refugee kids
• Summer camps for adults who need a truly playful getaway
• 5 summer camps that offer chance to connect with Indigenous culture

"We're towards the end of our life," said Dickinson,82.

Chance to be silly

"It's right and I think, great, that we can help some young people who are from homes that are disadvantaged in that they don't have much income," Dickinson said. "A lot of single moms, I think."

Dickinson attendedthe send-off for the young campers in 2016, his first year at the Lynnwood facility.

It was an emotional experience, he said, "to have those little kids come up to you and say thank you."

Twelve-year-old James Lane was one of the children who was able to experience summer camp as a result of the seniors' sponsorship.

He said at camp it was easier to meet people, go places and be silly, if he felt like it.

Canoeing 'the most fun ever'

"We went canoeing.It was the most fun I've ever had," Lane said.

Dickinson said the fundraising drive included proceeds from a residents'barbecue and pub night, anonymous donations andrefunds on empty bottles and cans.

"Every nickel counts, and if you get enough nickels you've got a buck."

From his own experience in Boy Scouts and the St. John Ambulance Brigade, he learned the value of campingfor boosting morale, getting out to play in the outdoors and havingsomething to talk about or boast aboutback at school.

"I think my favourite memory was campfire and singing silly songs," he said.

With files from On the Coast.