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Home > KODA Camp Campfire Chronicles > A Director's Passion
July 1, 2024
Written by: Karen Voss
Why is it my passion??
I tell this story so many times. My brother in law told me to send my oldest to the unknown camp in South Dakota. I thought why is there a such a camp? When she came home, there was a difference in her. Right there then, I knew I want to have a camp in Wisconsin. The journey of 16 years had been wonderful to see the kids attending the camp and see the difference in all of the kids. What is the difference?
KODA Camp is not just a place; it's a haven where the heart finds its tribe. Nestled amidst nature's embrace, the rustling leaves and crackling campfires echo the warmth of a community that understands the language of belonging. Here, under the open sky, friendships bloom like wildflowers, and shared stories become the threads weaving the tapestry of togetherness.
In the gentle embrace of KODA Camp, every smile shared, every laughter that dances on the breeze, and every whispered secret among friends creates an invisible bond. It's a sanctuary where differences are celebrated, and individuality is cherished. Whether gathered around a campfire or navigating through thrilling adventures, every moment at KODA Camp is a step into a world where everyone is not just accepted but embraced for who they are.
Amidst the scent of pine trees and the melody of birdsong, this camp becomes a second home, a place where campers discover not only the great outdoors but also the even greater expanse of their own potential. KODA Camp isn't just a destination; it's a feeling, a shared heartbeat that resonates through the United States, leaving an indelible mark on the soul—a reminder that, in this community, everyone belongs.
OKAY! I didn't write this, AI did it for me with a few edits. However, it spoke TRUE for all the kids. I see that every year without fail. At the camp, the counselors focus on four cores, KODA studies, arts & crafts, teambuilding, and outdoor activities. The campers are busy from dawn to bedtime, developing friendships for lifetime. It brings joy to my heart that the kids benefit so much from the camp. I have seen kids being unhappy at the beginning of the week to become joyful and sad to leave on the last day of the camp. I received so many comments from the parents that the camp is very important in their kids' lives.
I agree. The counselors are my heroes to make the difference as without them, the camp won't exist. Yes, it is hard work, thinking of safety, and making A - Z arrangements to make camp happens. The camp is slowly gaining more volunteers/staff to make improvements to the camp in different ways. From the humble beginnings of 23 campers in the first year, now there are over 650 campers in 17 years.
Thank you for making my life passion to run the camp.
Karen is the executive director of KODA Camp Midwest. Karen Voss is an extremely dedicated director and mother. She has five daughters (all who have attended KODA camp) and is devoted to continually improving KODA camp to be the best of its program. In Karen’s spare time she likes to garden, interpret, and research her family’s genealogy. She is deaf and from a deaf family herself. An interesting fact about Karen is that she has created a family generational book reaching 15 generations back.