CAMP TO BELONG MASSACHUSETTS

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With the support of The Massachusetts Department of SocialServices, statewide agencies, generous individuals and businesses, we launched this innovative sibling connection program in August 2005. In addition, we have celebrated our first Camp To Belong Reunion and created a pilot program to support brothers and sisters who have been separated when placed in foster care.

Summer Camp 2005
In late August 2005, Camp To Belong Massachusetts celebrated its grand opening at Camp Wingate Kirkland on beautiful Cape Cod. Nearly 60 siblings in care from all across the Commonwealth came together for a week of bonding and joy. 35 volunteer counselors led the campers through a week of activities ranging from visits to the beach, horseback riding, art projects, fishing, swimming, kayaking and whale watching. Campers moved from activity to activity in family groups so siblings could spend time together creating memories. CTB Mass Director, Tawni Whitney, met all CTB campers and caregivers before camp and made sure to visit them after their camp experience. As campers got on the bus to head home, counselors waved and said, “See you in October at the Reunion!”


Fall Reunion CTB Mass campers and counselors gathered at Camp Wingate Kirkland on October 15th to continue celebrating the sibling bond and to offer another opportunity for campers to come together to enrich their shared memories. A very exciting visitor, Country Western singer Jimmy Wayne, flew in to be a “beacon of hope” for CTB campers. A former youth in care, Jimmy serenaded everyone with his lovely voice and spoke to brothers and sisters about his life experiences, both in care and beyond. The kids presented Jimmy with a birthday cake, presents and their rendition of “Happy Birthday” before he headed back to Nashville! The Reunion was an outstanding day-long event full of connection that made us all smile as we boarded buses to head home that evening.

Year Round Sibling Connection Initiative Program Camp
To Belong Mass has created year round programming to help brothers and sisters expand and sustain their relationships through regional events. Our year round pilot program, Sibling Sundays, takes place monthly in western Massachusetts with nearly 25 campers and 12 volunteer Counselors participating. Once a month, siblings are enjoying each other’s company on a regular basis so that they can deepen their connection and develop close, healthy relationships. The group engages in developmentaly appropriate activities such as sledding, skating, swimming, animal care, gardening and geo-caching. An added benefit to the program is that Brothers and sisters and their families are getting together more frequently Outside of the program. We are deeply grateful to our committed corps of CTB Mass volunteer counselors and mentors – they enhance the lives of each and every camper.

Please contact CTB Headquarters at 888-723-5664 for more details.