DUNDEE -- With the construction of a new administration building around the bend, Camp Endeavor officials are ready to begin coordinating the only program for at-risk deaf and hard-of-hearing children in the state of Florida.
When deaf adolescents are expelled from special schools such as the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind in St. Augustine over behavioral or emotional problems, there is no alternative schooling for the youths, said Camp Endeavor Program Director Melissa Boer. The camp's proposed at-risk program revolves around creating a support system for the troubled teens.
"You address the problem up front and you look for solutions. The problem could be personal or social," said Executive Director Ken Irving. "We are trying to provide a service to the deaf and hard-of-hearing community."
Irving said the program, which would run in the fall and spring semesters teaching English, math, science and social studies, would also include counseling sessions.
"There are no programs for deaf youths at risk," Boer said. "Unfortunately they have no place to go."
A ground-breaking ceremony for the new office building, which will also serve as a staff residence cabin, will be held on Jan. 8 at the campsite located on 32 acres of rolling hills in Dundee, bounded by Lake Ada and Lake Jose-phine.
The planned 3,300-square-foot building would provide space for staff counselors and teachers to support the at-risk program. According to the blueprints, the facility will include an administration office, two dormitories, a classroom and a counselors' lounge. Local Sertoma Clubs and individuals are donating funds for material and labor for the new construction.
Camp Endeavor is a privately supported, non-profit summer program designed and organized to serve deaf and hard-of-hearing youth. The intention of the program is to enhance the growth and awareness of the children by providing a kind of enrichment that is rarely offered to deaf and heard-of-hearing youngsters.
Programs include drama, dance, nature study, arts and crafts and athletics.
Irving is planning to start the program in the fall and is soliciting donations of money to help coordinate the curriculum. Anyone interested in helping fund the project should contact Irving at 439-1300.
