The Carthage United Way is in the midst of its 2009 fund drive. The goal is to raise $310,000 to distribute to area groups and agencies that help people. 

In the past four issues The Carthage Press told you about the food pantries run by the Salvation Army, Crosslines and the Crisis Center and the services offered by the American Red Cross. These are four of the 14 agency members of the Carthage United Way that benefit from the money raised in Carthage. 

Over the next few issues, The Press will tell you about the other agencies in the United Way, leading up to the finale of the campaign at the end of this month.

In this issue, the Camp Quality Ozark answers questions about its organization.

What do you do? 

Camp Quality Ozark programs include our signature weeklong camp and other year-around programs for children diagnosed with cancer.  The diagnosis and treatment of cancer places tremendous stress on families.  Our programs create stress-free environments that offer exciting activities, foster new friendships and help give children courage, motivation and emotional strength. Camp quality also gives families a much needed rest knowing that the highest quality program has been selected for their child – a companion will be assigned to ensure the child’s safety and the finest medical supervisors are provided at each camp to administer medication and on-site care. Camp Quality is all about hope for the future and to allow a child with cancer to be a child again. 

Who benefits from your service?

We work with children with cancer, their families and all the wonderful volunteers.  One companion volunteer wrote “There are no words to describe or even explain the experience at Camp Quality.  I have been asked by family as well as friends and co-workers how the week went and to be honest I have yet to find the right words to capture the moments.  All I can say about my week was that I have never been more proud of not only myself but for a group of people who volunteered their time.  It has truly changed my life forever and I will never forget this experience.”

How do people access your services?

People can visit the Camp Quality Web Site: http://www.campqualityusa.com.

Locally, the director is Dave Adams. Greta Murphy is the assistant director and she can be reached at 417-438-9786. Ann Adams is the staff/companion coordinator and she can be reached at 417-438-1483. 2010 Camp Quality Ozark Camp dates are July 18-23.

What does your service mean to Carthage, Jasper County residents?

Camp Quality offers the community a look at the struggles a child and their family experience when this devastating disease strikes. It also provides the opportunity to help these children experience a week of much needed fun.

What does the support from the Carthage United Way mean to your group?

United Way of Carthage has been a supporter of Camp Quality for many years. Their continued support helps us to serve children that have been diagnosed with cancer and provide support for their families. Without the generosity for donors, like the United Way Camp Quality could not be a reality to the children.