When Casey first came to Boggy Creek for Heart Camp 8 years ago, he wished he could "stay forever." Last month, he and a few friends came a little bit closer to forever when they attended the Family Heart Retreat program, but this time as Leaders in Training (LIT's). Casey and Evelyn (both former campers) joined camper siblings Zachary and Alix for a weekend filled with fun, but also learning!

Zachary learned about the LIT program after attending a Spina Bifida Family Retreat for his sister. "She really enjoyed herself at Camp because everything was so accessible and even though sheÕs in a wheelchair, she was included in everything!" he remarked about his sisterÕs experience. When asked what he hoped to learn, Zachary replied, "I loved how our Family Pal related with us during my family's retreat weekend and that's what I want to do, come back and volunteer as a Family Pal and then, hopefully, as a counselor." Evelyn, also a former Heart Camper, added, "Camp really isn't camp without the people and that's what I hope to give back."

Camp Boggy Creek's LIT program was developed in 1999 to help former campers (ages 17-18 years) experience leadership roles that not only teach the skills necessary to be a leader, but also to inspire other seriously ill children as mentors. LIT's gain a better perspective of camper-staff interactions while also being provided an opportunity to give back to camp and help plan their future. Because of their experiences, many of the program's graduates decide on careers in healthcare-related fields and plan their continuing education to successfully reach their goals of helping others. Kirstin Youman, Assistant Camp Director, explains, "Being an LIT is hard work. Participants are challenged to be responsible role models, to step outside of their comfort zones, and to always put the needs of others before their own."

Boggy Creek staff and volunteers work diligently to create an environment that not only challenges LIT participants, but also helps them to grow and learn. To date, almost 200 former campers and siblings have participated in the LIT program with over half returning to Camp as a volunteer or counselor! Camp Boggy Creek looks forward to welcoming back our LIT's in the near future and wishes each of them success! If you would like more information on the LIT program, please contact kyoumans@BoggyCreek.org.