A Place Where Kids Can Reach for the Stars

For kids in Michigan, summer is sacred. It is a time to forget about the rigors of school and life, enjoy the outdoors and meet new friends. Children with serious medical conditions are no different; yet, opportunities to enjoy the summer months can be few and far between. Growing up with cerebral palsy, I was fortunate enough to attend a camp in Grand Rapids. While it was always a highlight of my summer, I wondered about other kids with medical challenges and if they could have an opportunity like mine to go to camp.

Wonder no more, the development of North Star Reach has begun and I am thrilled to be a part of it. Located in Southeast Michigan, North Star Reach will provide children with disABILITIES the opportunity to forget about their daily adversity and just be kids. With state-of-the-art facilities, children will be able to enjoy a tree house, arts and crafts center, fishing, archery and more! To support a child’s medical care, North Star Reach has teamed up with doctors and nurses from area pediatric hospitals, who will be on-site at the Health Center.

Facilities are just a part of what will make the North Star Reach experience special. The friendships with fellow campers and counselors will last a lifetime. There is also a tremendous opportunity to learn from your peers, knowing you are not alone in facing challenges. At age 33, I have lived independently for many years now. Much of my confidence, self-esteem and social development stems from attending a summer camp like North Star Reach.

For more information on how you contribute to North Star Reach and its bright future, please visit www.northstarreach.org.

Carey Larabee
North Star Reach Marketing Committee Member