Dear Dave,

If we believe that "what is meant to be will be" than Michael was surely meant to have the Camp Kodiak experience. The most defining moment came when he walked off the plane: he looked different. It was his posture--his confidence. We hugged and hugged, and he was so happy! Without any prompting he said he had had fun, learned a lot about himself, felt more self-confidence and self-esteem! As we settled back into our routine at home it was more than apparent that Michael was more outgoing, more appropriate and less "oppositional" (I hate this word)--perhaps I should say more willing to compromise, and even more aware of another's feelings. My husband, Eddie, and I keep waiting for a certain shoe to fall--a return to an old habit or method, but there has been no regression. The report we received held no surprises: Michael's strengths and weaknesses were right on the mark. However, we were VERY pleased to see that even in his weakest areas, he showed improvement. We could not be happier...I am truly a Camp Kodiak disciple...spreading the word!!

Needless to say, we were delighted that Michael was invited back. Once again, many thanks to you, your fine staff and all who make Camp Kodiak such a special place!! And, I am in awe at your system: Michael came home with everything, except for one jacket that you mailed to us...you are all the BEST!!

Michael's mom, Oceanport, New Jersey

Hi Dave,

Kelly had another terrific summer at Camp Kodiak this year. She is never happier than when she returns from camp!! Next summer Kelly would like to return for the second session as a long-planned family vacation conflicts with attending the full 7 weeks. She had the timing all figured out by the time I picked her up from camp in August. I just wanted to let you know that I am putting the early registration in the mail. Thanks again for providing such an outstanding camp experience. We are forever grateful. Kelly has gained so much from Camp Kodiak.

Hi Dave.

Thanks so much for sending Simon's shoes home - we had given them up for gonners! He had a lovely time at camp and I rejoice at seeing him happy and engaged with other children. I did not get a chance to speak with you on parents' day so I will tell you now that I think your camp is fabulous and I was so impressed with the number of staff, the layout of the facilities, the huge variety of activities and the milieu therapy that is offered. Simon and his family have benefited so much. We hope you will accept him for 7weeks next summer.

Anyway, congratulations to you and your staff for such a successful summer with Simon.

Dear Dave,

Sergio was at your camp for 3 weeks. The first thing he said when he came off the bus was, "Mom, can I please go back for 7 weeks next year? All my friends are going back". I was so happy for him. He had such a wonderful experience. Thank you very much for creating this camp, and thank you for the wonderful staff you are training.

Hi Amy, Cole & Paul! (Counsellors)

We are back, adjusting to life without Camp Kodiak, here in Cleveland. It was wonderful to meet everyone and to be able to see for ourselves the beautiful camp and fantastic program you have. Eric truly had a most positive experience at camp. The activities he was able to participate in, and the skills he came home with were many, and extremely valuable. His approach to situations and his attitude in dealing with things has definitely been affected in a positive way through his camp experience. Of course, next summer can not come fast enough!

Thank you for taking care of him during the month of July and for being such positive influences on him. Eric told me that "they really know how to calm me down at camp." I suggested that he remind himself of those moments and relive them whenever needed.

Thank you also for taking the time to fill out the evaluation report. It is a very useful tool, and I know it takes time to fill out for each camper. My special thanks for packing Eric up so well! It made the job of coming home a bit easier.

Best regards for an enjoyable last few weeks at camp, and for whatever is in store for you after camp. If you ever get to the Cleveland area, you always have a place to stay with us anytime.

Dear Dave,

It was great to see you on parents' day.

Thank you again for running such a super camp. Ann and Bill have developed and matured a great deal. We contribute it to the positive influence of Camp Kodiak and the many friends they have met there.

We look forward to seeing you in Chicago. Enjoy the fall, you've earned it.

Sincerely,

Dear Dave,

Don joins me in thanking you for your endless patience and boundless energy in working with Josh. We recognize that Josh is a challenge and appreciate your commitment to helping him grow and mature and achieve his potential! How lucky he is to be under your guiding hands! Don and I look forward to him returning next summer to Camp Kodiak's glorious environment. Please know that we appreciate and thank you for all of your support!

Dear Dave

Both of our boys enjoyed camp this summer. We thank you and your great staff for everything you provided, and for the care and patience that was shown to Elie.

Dave,

The changes in Soren are still evident. He is more self-confident and better able to deal with his frustrations and his peers at school. He's still smiling!!

Hi Everyone.

Jacob had a great 3 weeks!! He was full of stories about the great time he had - and very much wants to return next year!! Thanks for giving him such a wonderful time!!

Dear Staff,

Just a note to thank you for making Michael's camp experience so positive. It was a little scary sending our child to camp in a foreign country where he knows no one. We felt from the start that your program was very professionally run and would be a good match for Michael. We very much appreciate the extra time and effort you put in to making sure he felt comfortable and welcome. We can see a young man who has returned home with a new self confidence and better image of himself.

Thank you!

Dave,

I have just sent an endorsement for your camp over my gifted/LD parents mail list... I have also given the tape and brochure to the headmaster of the local LD school we are considering for T.J. for middle school. I just want you to know that I am very happy that T.J. enjoyed the camp, and thinks he would like to return next year. I can definitely see changes in his confidence and in his sociability as he interacts with others. These were our primary goals for the summer. He seems to be monitoring how he is interacting and checking for appropriateness. I will write more later...but just wanted to touch base.

P.S. Helena was great! I cannot believe the trust she built up with T.J. in 4 short weeks.

Dear David and the Staff of Camp Kodiak:

My husband, Craig, and I would like to express our thanks for the wonderful experience our son Matthew had at Camp Kodiak. He not only learned new skills, and met new people, but his confidence soared. Matthew has told everyone that camp was "great" and he is looking forward to returning next summer. We cannot express our appreciation enough.

Hi David!

We can't thank you and your staff enough for providing Michael with such a wonderful camp experience! His very first words after a great hug were "Mom, can I please go back next year?!?"

My husband and I want to commend you for the program you are running. Clearly, you have embraced our son and many more children over the years. Your choice of counselors, programs, activities, and just the environment itself, provide a safe, caring and FUN atmosphere for the campers. We continue to hear stories and tales of events from Michael.

Dave,

Josh had a great time at camp this summer. I am continually amazed at the difference in him when he returns from camp. His confidence and self-esteem are so built up there! I'm not sure what you do or how you do it, but its great! Its been a lifesaver for him and I haven't heard the full run down yet...he's beat. I'm sure I will, over the next few weeks. Thank you and your staff for a great summer of fun and growth!

Dear Dave,

Sara had a wonderful time at camp. It took a good week for her to come down off "cloud nine" and she continues to talk about her camp experiences and all the great friends she made. The safe and accepting environment that you provide has enabled Sara to grow in self-confidence and independence. We are so grateful to you for giving her the opportunity to spend four weeks with kids her own age and to have so much fun. It's a great pity that there are not more places like Camp Kodiak. Keep up the good work! Many, many thanks!

Hi!

Hope you've had a chance to catch your breath after the close of camp. Jeffrey had another wonderful experience, and would like to invite a number of his camp friends to his Bar Mitzvah this November. This is an extraordinary social development for this boy! Thanks very much!

Dear Dave & Ilana,

The first thing Nathan said when he got off the plane from Toronto was that he wanted to come back to Camp Kodiak next summer! He really enjoyed himself! Just wanted to say THANK YOU for providing Nathan with such an excellent opportunity! I'm hoping that he'll continue to benefit from his experience.

Hi Dave!

Connor obviously had a great time, and as time goes on we get new insights into his experience. I really appreciated the academic portfolio too. Thank you so much for giving him such a positive adventure!

Dear Dave:

I wanted to thank you and your wonderful staff for taking such good care of Jared this summer. He had a wonderful time at camp and has benefited from it greatly. He is more self-sufficient than before attending camp, and I am encouraging him to continue this behavior. Jared would like to attend your camp again next summer.

Hi Dave:

Just wanted to report to you that both my daughters had a great time and came home very enthusiastic about working hard to earn "7 weeks" of camp for next year. I was a little sad at first, but realize their Camp Kodiak experiences must have all been good ones. They had wonderful things to say about their counselors, the kids they met from all over the country, their programs, the schedule, the tutoring, YOU and Shari, etc. We spent the last week of the summer at Lake Champlain. I tried to keep them busy but they reminisced the whole time about the new friends they met, and hurried home to e-mail all of them. Thank you, again, David and Staff . . .hope the girls were as good for you as you were for them.

Hi Amy, Cole & Paul! (Counsellors)

We are back, adjusting to life without Camp Kodiak, here in Cleveland. It was wonderful to meet everyone and to be able to see for ourselves the beautiful camp and fantastic program you have. Eric truly had a most positive experience at camp. The activities he was able to participate in, and the skills he came home with were many, and extremely valuable. His approach to situations and his attitude in dealing with things has definitely been affected in a positive way through his camp experience. Of course, next summer can not come fast enough!

Thank you for taking care of him during the month of July and for being such positive influences on him. Eric told me that "they really know how to calm me down at camp." I suggested that he remind himself of those moments and relive them whenever needed.

Thank you also for taking the time to fill out the evaluation report. It is a very useful tool, and I know it takes time to fill out for each camper. My special thanks for packing Eric up so well! It made the job of coming home a bit easier.

Best regards for an enjoyable last few weeks at camp, and for whatever is in store for you after camp. If you ever get to the Cleveland area, you always have a place to stay with us anytime.

Dave -

My kids always have a great time at your camp. Keep up the great work that you and your team are doing!

Dear Dave:

It has been several weeks now since camp ended and I had intended to write you note before now. My husband and I want to thank you and your staff for the excellent care and attention you provided for Cole while at camp. Camp Kodiak truly was a beneficial and wonderful experience for our son despite any difficulties he may have had over the three weeks. We have seen so many positive changes in him such as references to the many things he learned at camp, better ways to handle uncomfortable situations, as well as communicating his ideas in a more appropriate way. You need to know that the counsellors that spent time with him did make a definite impression and we are so pleased.

Cole loved Camp Kodiak. I have never seen him talk with so much enthusiasm about something he has experienced. He talked non-stop for about a week after returning home reflecting on the many activities he participated in and on other stories he'd forgotten to tell us. Cole's sister attended an all girl's camp, for two weeks at about the same time, and says she now wants to go to Camp Kodiak after listening to her brother's stories. It was evident to us that your camp was everything we'd hoped it would be.

Please pass along to the counsellors and helpers our appreciation and sincere thanks.

Dave,

We really want to say thank you for another great summer experience for Josh. Even though he is only there for 3 weeks, Camp Kodiak really makes a difference in his life. When we pick him up and see how happy and relaxed he is, we are so grateful to you and the staff of Camp Kodiak.

Dear Dave:

This is the best camp I've ever been to. You really know how to run a camp.

I like this camp because everyone knows each other and it's like a big family. I really enjoy all of the activities, especially high ropes, rock climbing and sailing. I also enjoy almost all of the food.

Your friend,

Dear Dave:

Thanks for always being there for me! Camp was awesome! See you next summer!

Your friend,

Josh (age 14), Tucson, Arizona

Hi Dave,

Kelly is still euphoric from her experience at Camp Kodiak this summer. She constantly talks about the camp and regularly looks at the photo album that she made of all of the pictures she took at camp, which remind her about all the great fun she had there. Sara, Kelly's friend and fellow camper, also has retained the glow of the camp experience. Sara truly seems to be transformed. Sara has noted several times that her jaws hurt from smiling so much as she thinks about the camp experience. Also, Sara has noted that she now likes hugging people, which she never did before. Congratulations on creating such a wonderful environment for our kids. I was very impressed with the young people who were camp counselors, as I had the opportunity to talk to many of them on visitors day. What a wonderful group of young people. I also shared Kelly's portfolio of academic work and LIT evaluation with Kelly's school.

Also, Kelly continues corresponding with many of camp friends, by e-mail as well as by letters (the old fashioned kind with paper, ink, stamps, etc.). They are truly an alumni group.

Kelly has been continuously lobbying for the 7 week option for summer 2001 since visitors day. In fact the first words when I saw her on that day were “I want to come back for 7 weeks next year.

Thanks again Dave and Congratulations on the wonderful camp you have created.

Kelly's mom, Greenbrae, California

Dear Dave,

Our son Justin is still suffering euphoria from Camp Kodiak! He had such a wonderful time, and he is a far happier boy in many ways. We think it is the best “therapy” we could have wished/paid for!

Many thanks,

Yours sincerely,
Justin's mom, Singapore

Dave

It was delightful to meet with you, Bill and Ann over the weekend. They are really enjoying the summer at Camp Kodiak. It is rewarding to see that they have so many friends that are positive in nature.

We sometimes find that people in our area are not positive in regard to their relationships with others. It is very difficult for Bill and Ann, whom are very outgoing, to have this conflict of friendships at home.

Thank you for providing such a wonderful experience; Camp Kodiak.

Have a great SUMMER.

Sincerely,

Bill & Ann's dad, Winnetka, Illinois

Jeffrey had an amazingly positive experience at camp, and it's clear he's learned a great deal about himself and others. If you have a parents' feedback form, I'll be happy to fill it out in glowing terms! I would have enjoyed speaking with you more while we were there, just to express our appreciation for what you do, but the Dave line was a full one, and everything was just so fine with Jeffrey, we didn't need much of a turn. His counselor Nick filled us in on all the details. Hope your last weeks are smooth ones. We're busy learning camp songs here at bedtime!

Jeffrey's mom, Dallas, Texas

Dear Shirley,

I hate to bug you again, but I did want to tell you I learned so much about my children from the evaluations. Noble really made such progress. Next year he will be more confident. He has to do things once, and then he usually feels very comfortable.

Have a great year and rest!!!!

Max, Noble & Neily's mom, Birmingham, Alabama

Dear Dave,

As you already know, our son Ed had a fantastic time at camp. Of course, we were pleased to see him so happy and enthusiastic. But we had no idea that 4 weeks with you guys (and gals) would have such an enormously positive effect on him.

We read your brochure and the letters form parents. We called at least 6 sets of parents for recommendations. Everyone had wonderful things to say and we believed them, but we never dreamed that it could really happen for Ed.

It did.

We not only have a happy camper at home, but a more mature young man. He is self-confident. He is much more aware of his behavior and how it affects others. He is calmer. He talks about his new friends enthusiastically. His tics have decreased significantly. Even his reading comprehension has markedly improved. I believe, a result of heightened self-esteem.

In short, we have our boy back. Only better.

We can't thank you and your staff enough. Feel free to use us as references. We would be thrilled to help another family reap the benefits of such a wonderful experience.

Sincerely,

Ed's mom, Chicago, Illinois

Dear Dave,

Morgan had a marvelous time at camp - thanks to all of you!

Morgan's mom, South Porcupine, Ontario

Dear Dave,

Thanks for a great summer for Tony. He's had a wonderfully successful experience doing shorthand with Shirley. I feel it is worth documenting so that other kids with the same problems and resources find in this method an enabling strategy to cope with notetaking both at school and at university.

All the best, see you next year.

Tony's mom, Ottawa, Ontario

Hi, Nick!

We continue to hear wonderful stories of camp from Daniel and Nathan. I have some great photos that I plan to make reprints of and send to you. Daniel would love to be able to email you, if you are wired for the fall and willing. I hope you have had a satisfying Session 2. We are singing your praises here in Chicago, as the extent of your caring nurturance of Daniel during July becomes clear.

Thank you again, from the bottom of our hearts.

Daniel & Nathan's mom & dad, Chicago, Illinois

Dear Dave,

This is just a quick note of appreciation for our grandson Andrew's wonderful experience at Camp Kodiak this summer -- appreciation to you and to your counselors.

We congratulate you and we were delighted to hear reports of Andrew's comments: Did you have a good time? YES (with enthusiasm)! Did you miss me? No. He responded very enthusiastically - especially proud of his accomplishments in water skiing and the high ropes!

As far as we are concerned, we hope Andrew will be returning next summer.

Hope all goes well with you over the coming months as you organize for another year at Camp Kodiak.

Sincerely,

Andrew's grandfather, Sewickley, Pennsylvania

Dear Dave,

Joelle and Kirk arrived home last night safely and very happy. They both had a fabulous three weeks (so had I). You and your staff have done a wonderful job! Thank you all.

I am glad to see that you have the early registration for the returning campers now. As soon as she saw us, Joelle announced, same as last year, that she wants to go back for 7 weeks next year. So, I am signing her up now.

Again, thank you for doing such a good job for these kids who need special attention.

Sincerely,

Joelle & Kirk's mom, Los Altos, California

Dear Camp Kodiak Personnel,

I would like to thank each and everyone one of you for providing my grandson, Anthony with such a positive experience when he was at your camp. I sure liked the educational things you did with him and all the comments you made.

He wants to come back again next year.

Keep up the great work.

Sincerely,

Anthony's grandmother, Fort Yates, North Dakota

Dear Dave:

Thank you so much for providing such a terrific experience for our son Robin this year at camp. He came home happy as a clam and eager to repeat the experience next year. For our part, we were pleased to get such a positive report about Robin as a camper. It's wonderful to see him having fun under the guidance of people who understand his disability.

To that end, we are enclosing an early registration for the same four-week period next year. Robin is just sorry that we can't make it the full seven weeks.

Once again, thanks for making July such a wonderful experience for our son.

Yours truly,

Robin's mom, Low, Quebec

Dear Dave,

Danielle came home from camp this year and talked and talked about her experiences - she doesn't usually do this! She obviously had a wonderful time and can't wait to return in July next year. You obviously run a great program.

Thanks again.

Danielle's mom, Toronto, Ontario

Dave,

I hope all went well at the camp this summer. Avi is doing well, has many friends and had a great summer at home. Your camp did a lot for Avi over the past few years in terms of self-esteem, developing friendships and being responsible.

All the best for the coming year.

Thanks!

Avi's dad, Ottawa, Ontario

Dear Dave:

Thank you once again for a wonderful camp experience.

As you know, Jonathon's troubles started very early. In kindergarten he was diagnosed with learning disabilities and became very despondent. As a result of a very uncaring psychologist, Jonathon's self-esteem plummeted and he began to feel that he was stupid and worthless. At the age of 7 he was depressed and so unhappy that he cried every day. School was a nightmare, and we had to physically put him on the bus many times.

When Jonathon decided he would like to go to camp, you met with us and answered all of our questions, showed us photos and a video of the camp.

It was very difficult, I will admit, to send Jonathon to camp that first year. He had never been away from us for so long and I was concerned. After all, he was only 8 years old.

I got a really good feeling at the bus pick-up point. Many of the counselors were there, and we could see that a lot of the kids were anxious to get to camp again. You all made Jonathon very comfortable, and a counselor from his cabin sat with him.

The first few days of camp were difficult for me. I think I called every day, but no one gave me the feeling that I was a bother. I now know, of course, that my concerns about Jonathon feeling lonely or scared were quite unfounded.

Jonathon's letters were very hard to read due to the nature of his disability, but we could tell he was happy at camp. My favorite letter was the one with the rock in it from an overnight camping trip.

When we picked Jonathon up at the end of the three weeks, I was floored by the changes in him. He literally bounced off the bus! He was happy! After two years of long faces and tears, he was happy! He oozed confidence and he seemed so sure of himself. It was almost too good to be true. When we got home he showed us his academic workbook. Wow! A lot of time and effort went into his work. I really like the fact that you check with parents and teachers to determine what work needs to be done.

It's hard to describe the difference in Jon. He was proud of himself and the things he had done. We were amazed at the list. Archery, canoeing, swimming, horseback riding, go-carts, photography, arts & crafts, pottery, rocketry, and he hadn't tried everything that was available to him.

The certificates of achievement that he received are framed and have a special place in his room. Every once in a while we look at them and are amazed at all the things this sad and depressed little boy accomplished.

Best of all was the change in his attitude. Not only towards himself, but he actually was looking forward to school! It was incredible to us, but he was anxious to get back to it. Shortly after school started we got a call from his teacher who noticed a great improvement in Jonathon. In fact, due to the extra help at camp, Jonathon was actually ahead of the kids in his class! Boy, that was a shot in the arm!

I must also thank all of the counselors at Camp Kodiak. I admit, I have never heard of such a good camper/counselor ratio before. Jonathon's counselors from his first year have kept in touch with him through letters, phone calls and even visits. You have no idea how special he feels after a phone call or a visit from Dave, Jon or Trent. He just lights up. It's a great feeling to know that they really care.

It's impossible to thank you properly for all that you have done for my son. You've given him back a sense of self-worth and made him aware that he can do anything he wants to do. He is no longer afraid to try new things, in fact, he seeks them out. He enjoys school and is no longer afraid to ask questions. He often mentions camp and all that he has learned there. He is finally happy with who he is and what he can do. He knows that his learning disability will never go away, but he also knows that he can do so many things and that he is an important person.

We have always treated Jonathon like he was somebody important, but somehow it wasn't enough. Thank you for showing him we were right.

Looking forward to seeing you again next summer.

With best regards,

Jonathon's mom, Stouffville, Ontario

Dear David:

I want to thank you and your staff for a wonderful experience for Andres; he has the best memories of the camp and constantly refers to the many great experiences he had and the people he met and about the great counselors he interacted with.

He keeps telling me "Mom, thanks for sending me to this camp. I cannot thank you enough."

It certainly was a growth opportunity for him where he felt accepted, supported and challenged.

Thank you again and best wishes for you and your team.

Andres' mom, Bogota, Columbia

Dear David:

Kevin attended your camp for three weeks last year. It was an experience he will never forget and talks about it often. True to your word, he never realized that the true purpose of attending your camp was to help him with his social difficulties, but help him you did. For the first time in his life, he has maintained friendships for the entire school year. His friends (two in particular) call him frequently, (in fact,, almost too much!!) and invite him over and come over here pretty much every weekend. He has made new friends throughout the last few months, and all of the friends are nice, clean-cut, polite kids with a great sense of humor like Kevin's. Kevin's self-esteem has improved incredibly and his dad and I feel very confident that he will do well next year in high school.

So, THANK YOU. The results were astounding and almost immediate. Your camp gave Kevin the gift of a lifetime. That and a love of sailing and water-skiing! You have a truly unique and special camp and we wish you every success in the future.

Kevin's mom, Thousand Oaks, California

Dear Dave:

I can honestly and sincerely say that my experiences at Camp Kodiak helped me to become the person I am today. Before camp I was shy, nervous, quiet and had low self-esteem. I didn't want to go to camp since the idea of all of those new people, in a new setting that I knew little about, scared me. I went anyway and I'm glad I did.

For the first time ever I felt adequate; I was an equal. Everyone was so friendly, open and welcoming from the moment I stepped off the bus. I was not afraid anyone was laughing at me, just with me. I have made hundreds of friends of all ages at camp, many are friendships I know will last a lifetime.

Camp was the place for many firsts that gave me confidence. It was the first time I went horseback riding, canoeing and water-skiing. I had tons of support from the counselors as well as the other campers. For someone who felt she could achieve so little, it was a great rush to have so many people believe in me, and show it. The entire experience has raised my self-esteem. I finally fell I can do anything I put my mind to.

When people ask me about camp, I have only positive things to say. When talking about camp I am likely beaming, smiling from ear to ear. I have been going to camp for years and have no plans to stop any time soon. Camp has made a difference in my life and has been a very important part of it.

Krista, a former camper, CIT and staff member.
Toronto, Ontario
(Krista is currently in the 3rd. year of a B.Ed. program)

Hi Dave:

I have been meaning to write to you since Seth got home from camp. He had a wonderful summer and couldn't say enough nice things about the staff and the kids. He felt as though he had real friends and he can't wait to return next summer.

He has started high school, and so far is doing great. He has joined the chess team and is considering the wrestling team for this winter.

Hope all is well with you and your family.

Seth's mom, Deerfield, Illinois

Dear Dave:

Andrew had a great time at camp this summer. It was a wonderful experience for him, and he is hoping to go back next year.. He liked pottery so much, he is asking for a pottery wheel for his birthday.

From the stories Andrew told, we could tell that your staff puts plenty of emphasis on being respectful of others, and that they are a caring group. Erik, his head counselor, is a real gem. Andrew is very attached to him and missed him terribly when he got back home. We enjoyed talking with him, Melissa and Zoe on Parents' Day.

We really appreciate everything your staff did to make this first camp experience a positive one. THANK YOU!!

I hope you will keep us on your mailing list and let us know when camp sign-up comes around again.

Thanks again for providing Andrew with some wonderful summer memories and experiences.

Andrew's mom, South Lyon, Michigan

Dear Dave:

Duncan had a wonderful time at Camp Kodiak last year and is very much looking forward to joining you again! As parents, we couldn't be more pleased. Not only did Duncan have fun with other kids (which is relatively rare) but his attitudes to others and his ability to fit in have certainly improved.

Thanks for everything!

Yours truly,

Duncan's mom, Alliston, Ontario

Dear Dave:

Allow me to take this opportunity to thank you for making Susan's wonderful summer possible. Susan attended camp for five years before attending your camp this summer, and I have never seen her more enthusiastic and excited about returning to camp next year. Susan enjoyed camp more than we could have imagined. She came home with increased confidence in her riding ability. She now has hopes of being a future counselor and assistant riding instructor.

She was apprehensive at first, but was soon won over by her love of her daily pottery classes, the counselor-in-training program, horseback riding and the new friends she made. You were sensitive to her special dietary needs and provided her with delicious vegan meals.

My daughter flourished in the caring and positive, nurturing environment that your camp offers. I can highly recommend it to the parents of other young people.

Sincerely yours,

Susan's mom, New York, NY

Dear Dave:

Thank you very much for Stephen's wonderful experience at camp. He had a fantastic time and tells me he's planning to go for the whole summer next year.

As you are aware, Stephen is shy and needs opportunities for social interaction and social skills development. We are so pleased and relieved to have found your camp, where Stephen is accepted and helped to feel good about himself.

The video that he and his dad made to introduce you to him was super. The family has enjoyed viewing it.

Congratulations on developing a great camp. Keep us on your mailing list for next year.

Sincerely,

Stephen's mom, St. John's, Newfoundland

Hi Dave:

Camp Kodiak has been a wonderful haven for Jim. We owe your camp our gratitude for all you have done for his self-esteem. Whenever Jim returns from camp, his self-esteem is always at a wonderfully high level. Looking forward to his next visit has often gotten him through his current school year.

Jim has grown and matured wonderfully this past year and we are proud and excited for him as he approaches life's daily challenges in more responsible ways.

Thank you for being there for the past five years and for encouraging him forward during some of his darkest times.

Sincerely,

Jim's mom, Whitby, Ontario

Dear Dave:

I've been intending to write you a note all fall and have finally found a minute to thank you again for the wonderful time Adam had at camp.

We sent him off to camp for the first time with some reservations, and needless to say, were thrilled to hear that he was not homesick, and indeed was having a great time. It appeared to be a harder adjustment for his parents than for Adam!

The three weeks went by quickly and when we picked him up we found a very happy fellow who was eager to show off the newly learned skills he had been practicing.

Adam was very proud of his successes at camp and we found him to be much more self-assured and more self-reliant upon his return.

His new confidence has carried over into his school life as well, and we were pleased to learn that he had a good term at school.

Adam has appreciated the letters and pictures from his counselors, and the Christmas card and group photo you sent was a lovely surprise. These little gesture really help the kids feel "special".

Thanks again for all of your efforts on Adam's behalf, and for making a very significant difference in the lives of kids who need so much.

Sincerely,

Adam's mom, Ottawa, Ontario

Dear Dave:

Jeff had an enjoyable time at camp this summer. It was all he talked about. Here is a short note about things we have noticed since he returned from camp.

Jeff's attitude towards others, and towards difficult situations has become more mature. He now has more confidence. This has helped him in his school endeavors. His work is always done and completed on time. The tutoring at camp helped Jeff to maintain his academic levels throughout the summer.

He even tried out for the soccer team and made it! Next he wants to try out for football.

We are looking forward to sending Jeff to camp again next year.

Once again, thanks for a great summer.

Yours truly,

Jeff's mom & dad, Pickering, Ontario

Dear Dave:

We are so pleased with the wonderful camp you have. Mike's self-esteem has been so low at times, but he came back from camp feeling great.

He had a lot to tell us and he seemed so even-tempered that it was a joy to talk to him. I think you must have (for Mike at least) the perfect balance of structure, rules, choice & fun. It was important to us that Mike have a lot of fun activities to do, as well as some responsibilities. He seems to have really benefited from the combination of all of these at camp.

We were, for the first time, at ease, since we knew that he was "normal" to you, and we feel lucky that his medical needs were well attended to.

Safety is a major concern with Mike, but from what he said, that was well taken care of too.

Also, the information you provided us with was great! We weren't expecting such thorough feedback.

Mike wants to go back to camp next summer - and we are all happy about that - so please send us all of the information when it's time.

We would like to thank you for all of your consideration for our family.

Sincerely,

Mike's mom & dad, Ithaca, New York

Dear Dave:

Kate came home feeling so terrific about herself and the time she had at camp. We were thrilled for her. The friendships she made and the sports and activities she participated in were just part of the winning formula you seem to have at camp to make the children feel great and have a wonderful time. She is keeping in touch with some of the girls she met and is looking forward to next summer eagerly.

Thank you for interest and support with our child. We are lucky to have found you.

Sincerely,

Kate's mom, Toronto, Ontario

Dear Dave:

I am writing to let you know just how much Sarah enjoyed camp this summer. She can't stop talking about all of the fun she experienced there. From the minute her dad and I picked her up in Toronto, all Sarah could talk about was "How long until I go back to camp again?" and "I wish I was still at camp." That time cannot arrive soon enough for her. Let me tell you, Sarah was on a high for several weeks. She has already received and sent several letters to her old friends as well as new ones she made over the summer.

Both her dad and I have noticed more self-confidence in Sarah since she returned. She appears less reluctant to try and do things on her own even though she may not always succeed. Camp has definitely been a positive learning experience for her.

We commend you and your staff for producing such an excellent program. We hope you continue to keep this excellent program running for years to come. Sarah is sure looking forward to being there.

Thanks for all of the understanding and support you have given Sarah over the past two summers. Looking forward to seeing you and your staff next summer.

Sincerely,

Sarah's mom, Petrolia, Ontario

Dear Dave & Kodiak Staff:

It is hard to believe the five plus weeks have gone by. We want to thank everyone for everything they have done for Matt while he was at camp. It is great to have such patient, competent and supportive individuals to trust our child with, and we want to convey our sincere appreciation to all of you. We especially want to thank Shirley Grimsdale and any other staff who assisted Matt in preparing the letters we received. We know that without their assistance Matt would not have written any letters. THANK YOU!

If someone has time, please provide us with the names and addresses of Matt's counselors. We would like to send them a personal thank you.

Wishing you all a great year!

Sincerely,

Matt's mom & dad, Chicago, Illinois

Dear David & Staff:

Peter had a fabulous time at Camp Kodiak!

You are a group of very special individuals with incredible patience and a unique understanding of these very special kids. Peter came home with increased confidence and incredible pride in his accomplishments. I know he'll be talking about camp many times throughout the winter months.

Thanks again. We greatly appreciate all of your efforts.

Peter's mom & dad, Toronto, Ontario

Dear Dave:

Quite simply put - thank you! You have provided our son with a positive, encouraging and rewarding first-time overnight experience.

Jeremy truly loved camp. We all know he had his "moments", but he came home a very happy camper.

Thank you - to you and all of your staff, every single one, for contributing to Jeremy's happiness. And thank you for starting Camp Kodiak where you instill self-esteem into each child.

Jeremy looks forward to the summer of 2000 with anticipation.

Have a wonderful year, and we look forward to seeing you next year.

Jeremy's mom & dad, Toronto, Ontario

PS The camp grounds are magnificent!

Dear Dave, Shirley and all the Staff:

Thank you for Camp Kodiak. It is wonderful to have a summer camp that is sensitive to kids with special needs.

Bailey grew emotionally and came home happier with herself than ever before. She is looking forward to going back next summer.

Again, thank you, thank you, thank you.

Sincerely,

Bailey's mom, Memphis Tennessee