A Recap of
Royal Family
KIDS Camp
2022

A Recap Of
Royal Family KIDS Camp 2022

Royal Family KIDS Camp 2022… replacing hurt with hope.  Across the state of Louisiana, this year, children in our local foster care system are getting the opportunity to experience firsts.  Perhaps it’s their first overnight camp, their first time swimming, or their first celebrated birthday for some, but for all of these amazing children, it’s a message of hope.  The hope that life is more than the chaos and tough experiences they’ve faced thus far in their young lives.  RFKC is a nationwide 501(c)3 that has found its way into four Louisiana locations and has served close to a thousand children in our state’s foster care system.  An army of dedicated volunteers gives a week of their time to show children who have experienced abandonment and abuse that they are valued and loved.  Children between the ages of 6 and 12 are allowed to be kids.  For one week, they splash in the pool, dress like princesses, sing camp songs, and even celebrate their birthday (regardless of when it might be.)  All year long, the Royal Family KIDS Camp staff works to raise the necessary funds so that every child and their volunteer counselors can attend the camp week at no cost.  Adults ranging from newly graduated high schoolers to retirees enjoying their “Golden Years” come together to ensure that every child who attends camp feels wanted and knows their life is filled with potential and purpose.  When asked what camp meant to him, a former camper turned counselor said, “Camp meant everything to me. It made me feel special, and I wanted to be able to make other kids feel that way too.”  One staff member declared, “Camp is the best week of my year, and I wouldn’t miss it for anything.”  It’s amazing how one week can change a child’s life trajectory.  When a child understands that they are awesome and have a great future ahead, it allows them to see the world differently and begin to move in a direction filled with peace and joy rather than chaos and pain.  As the planning, fundraising, and brainstorming start for 2023’s Royal Family KIDS Camp, we cherish and reflect fondly on the memories made in the early months of summer that forever impacted the lives of children and adults alike.