An inspiring initiative led by Cheryl Carter, the owner of Johnny Rebs’ True South Restaurant, aims to support the Send-a-Kid-to-Camp campaign. This program, established in memory of the late Press-Telegram columnist Tom Hennessy, collaborates with local organizations to provide children with transformative camping experiences. By placing donation containers on all tables at her restaurant, Carter encourages patrons to contribute generously. The funds raised help send children to week-long camps managed by five prominent youth organizations. Each donation plays a crucial role in creating lasting memories and fostering personal growth among young participants.
In Long Beach, Cheryl Carter has taken an active role in supporting local children through the "Shell Out for Charity" initiative. Her commitment stems from fond memories of her own childhood spent as a Brownie and Girl Scout in the San Bernardino Mountains. These experiences profoundly impacted her life, instilling values of friendship, learning, and enjoyment. Now, she seeks to extend similar opportunities to others by raising funds for the Send-a-Kid-to-Camp campaign. Through this effort, Carter invites the community to join her mission, emphasizing that even small contributions can make a significant difference.
The Send-a-Kid-to-Camp campaign has been running successfully for 26 years, partnering with the Long Beach Community Foundation and various youth organizations. Together, they ensure that children from the area enjoy enriching outdoor adventures. Each organization contributes approximately $600 per child for a week-long stay at mountain camps. To further incentivize donations, Carter offers a $100 gift certificate to anyone contributing $600 towards this cause. Such generous acts demonstrate the power of collective efforts in transforming lives.
As the campaign progresses, it continues to receive overwhelming support from the community. So far, readers have contributed over $67,000, including substantial pledges from donors like Frank and Margie Newell. Their matching grant of $30,000 serves as a catalyst for additional contributions. With the deadline set for June 15th, there is still ample opportunity for individuals to participate and leave a lasting impact on young lives. Whether donating online via the Long Beach Community Foundation's website or mailing checks directly, every contribution counts.
Beyond financial assistance, the Send-a-Kid-to-Camp campaign fosters a spirit of unity and compassion within the community. It exemplifies how shared goals can bring people together to create meaningful change. As Cheryl Carter aptly puts it, these experiences hold the potential to be life-changing for countless children. By continuing to support such initiatives, we ensure that future generations have access to invaluable opportunities for growth and development, making our communities stronger and more vibrant.