There’s only one camp in San Diego with a mission to provide young burn survivors with a fun, safe, supportive environment that they can look forward to every year. At this year’s Camp Beyond the Scars, hosted by the Burn Institute, 50 children and young adults who have sustained significant burn injuries joined together in an environment where they can feel comfortable being themselves.
Setting up young leaders for success
For many, camp is the first time they can meet other children with scars just like them. The program allows them to interact with fellow campers of all age rangers to help build self-esteem, improve coping skills and strengthen their resiliency.
“One thing we encourage at camp is taking pride in your scars, as opposed to concealing or hiding them,” said Susan Day, Burn Institute Executive Director. “Camp Beyond the Scars offers a circle of support for each child and focuses on providing a safe environment for burn survivors to express themselves and learn how to feel comfortable with their personal burn story.”
This year’s pirate themed summer program took place at Oakbridge Camp located in Ramona were campers participated in activities, including swimming, laser tag, archery and rock climbing. Camp activities were led by volunteer counselors who are off-duty firefighters, medical professionals, educators and adult burn survivors who uniquely understand the needs of this special population.
Partnering for a better tomorrow
As a long-time supporter of the Burn Institute, SDG&E is helping to ensure the Camp Beyond the Scars continues to be a safe place for the future leaders of our region. In fact, many of our employees have taken it even further by giving their time and their paychecks to the important work that the Burn Institute does day in and day out.
Today, the Burn Institute continues to reach tens of thousands of children and adults each year with lifesaving fire and burn prevention education programs that help children and adults cope with the devastating psychological and physical effects of their burn injuries. For more information on the Burn Institutes, visit www.burninstitute.org.
