Kishwaukee Special Recreation Association (KSRA) receives a donation from the DeKalb Elks Lodge #765 of $1,740 to provide scholarship for KSRA’s 7-week summer camp, Camp Maple Leaf (CML).

DeKalb Elks Lodge #765 Exalted Ruler, James Brantley, donated two checks to the KSRA Office, 1403 Sycamore Rd., DeKalb, on Tuesday, October 15. This donation will allow KSRA to provide financial support to families who might not be able to cover the full cost of the camp in 2025. The DeKalb Elks have been involved with CML for many years through their annual visit to camp where Elroy comes to hang out with campers and the Elks provide a pizza lunch for the entire camp. This is always a special day for the campers and the Elks.

CML runs from June to July for 7-weeks. CML is open to school age children of any ability.  Siblings are also welcome to attend camp. Activities include group games, water activities, pool trips, art, sensory bins, relaxing in a sensory room, playground adventures and so much more.

Sending a child to summer camp is crucial as it continues their growth from the school year.  During camp, they will work on their social skills by making new friends, practicing teamwork within their group, increasing physical activity through all the games and nature play, engaging in mental stimulation through mindfulness activities and increasing their confidence as they develop new and build on current skills all while having a good time.

KSRA partners with DeKalb, Flag-Rochelle, Genoa, Sandwich and Sycamore Park Districts.  Programs are planned according to the principles of Recreational Therapy (RT). RT uses strategies to address the social, emotional, cognitive, physical and leisure needs of those impacted by illness, injury or disability. Participation in therapeutic recreation programs, like those we offer at KSRA, can promote improvement and prevent decline in these areas for greater independence and well-being.