Camp Loyaltown Reception Launches Fundraiser for Needed Improvements
On a beautiful evening in late August, families, supporters, and devoted staff members of the Camp Loyaltown community came together on the patio of Brookville Mansion to support the camp that has changed countless lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
For 50 years, Camp Loyaltown, located in Hunter, NY, has been a place of escape and peace for many who have returned year after year to engage in hobbies like arts and crafts or animal therapy in a safe, accessible, and inclusive environment. While campers are away making incredible summer memories, caregivers have an opportunity to rest and recharge, knowing that their loved one is in good hands in the scenic Catskill Mountains. This year, 475 campers had an unforgettable summer at Camp Loyaltown.
Camp Loyaltown is so much more than a respite for campers and their families. It’s a place where talents are discovered, friendships are formed, and lifelong memories are made. For counselors traveling from all over the world to work with people with I/DD, it’s also a source of education, growth, and inspiration.
During the evening’s program, Camp Loyaltown Committee Chairman Mark Gamell announced the “Celebrating 50 Years of Camp Loyaltown” match campaign. Ignited by the leadership and generosity of Mark and Doreen Gamell, the entire camp community was invited to donate with every donation being matched dollar for dollar (1:1), up to $25,000. The funds will support the drilling of a second well to provide an additional source and expand winter respite opportunities at Camp.
“For my parents, my siblings, and now my own family, Camp Loyaltown isn’t just a camp – it’s a lifeline,” Mark said.
It’s clear that Camp Loyaltown has played a significant role in many other families, too. In front of the reflection pond outside of Brookville Mansion, bricks inscribed with tributes to those who care deeply for the camp’s mission, including those who are no longer with us: John Gilligan, Susan Uda, A. Marie Joyce, Donna Hahl, Patrick Philbin, Dr. Martin Shear, Patrick F. Broderick, and Ben Traversa.
During the event, attendees read the inscriptions and remembered those the bricks are devoted to. Hallie Klein, the President of the Board of Directors for Citizens Options Unlimited, led a moment of silence for those who have passed.
“These bricks are much more than just stones – they tell the story of a community bonded together,” Hallie said.
CEO Stanfort Perry remarked that the attendance of supporters whose families and loved ones were honored that evening reflects the strength of the community and the continuing purpose of this work.
“What began as a simple effort has grown tremendously, thanks to the incredible dedication of families leading the charge,” Stanfort said, “If you could dream it, this committee and these families made it happen.”
As the sun set in Brookville and on another successful summer, the evening ended with a feeling of gratitude for everyone who has supported Camp Loyaltown over the years, and a renewed commitment to supporting its important mission moving forward.