MCC Fire Science Instructor, Doug Goostree, recently returned from Camp I Am Me. As a board member of the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance board, Doug once again joined other volunteers and counselors at the YMCA Camp Duncan in Lake County, Illinois. (Doug on the left, fellow IFSA Board member, Terry Pluta on the right)
Once called The IFSA Burn Camp, Camp I am Me, was renamed by the campers themselves at the suggestion of a young burn victim who was trying to escape the labels these young survivors contend with on a daily basis. This annual camp offers an atmosphere of casual camaraderie and FUN for these young burn victims who often feel the stares and hear the comments of others because of their burn scars.
Doug is joined by other firefighters (current and retired) as well as by teachers and other professionals as trained volunteers who are very sensitive to these children and the emotional, physical and social scars they bear.
Through fun camp activities and opportunities for the kids to bond with each other and with camp volunteers, this special place is a wonderful summertime respite for healing young bodies and souls and renewing self confidence and trust. Camp I am Me celebrated its 20th anniversary this summer and convenes the third week in June each year.
