Causes

Youth development Disaster relief Human services

Posted by

Samuel D.

Volunteer manager

Our mission

"Because no child should live with burn scars." - Sam Davis, Founder

We work to help pediatric burn survivors around the world face the challenges of recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration.

We believe the best way to do this is through Burn Camps, recreational camp experiences where children with burns learn how to build self-confidence, make new friends, and just be kids again.

Our three burn camps are operated by volunteers and funded by donors. We also help ensure that burn survivors receive proper care, and adequate compensation; both crucial for a return to a stable and productive life.

What we do

Support burn survivors, as they face the challenges of recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration.

Whether caused by a house fire, scalding cooking fluid, or an insurgent's explosive device - serious burn injuries have devastating consequences. Physical disfigurement and emotional scars make the recovery process a long and painful one. Although the "outside" scars require several complex surgeries, the "inside" scars are much more difficult to heal.

We believe that Burn Camps are the best way to support young burn survivors, as they learn to cope with their new lives. In the course of 4 fun-filled days, campers build self-confidence, make new friends, and set the scars aside in favor of ballgames, drum circles, surf lessons and unforgettable camp experiences.

For some campers it may be the first independent encounter with other burn survivors, a step that requires courage and self-acceptance. For others it may be part of a long rehabilitation process, as they mature from campers to counselors. Yet for all it is a refuge where they are not judge or defined by their appearance. It is a place where they can be children, free of worries and focused on having fun.

Burn Camps have also been the subject of much academic research - numerous peer reviewed studies have demonstrated decreased isolation, improved self-esteem, improved teamwork, promotion of coping skills and improved social skills after burn camp participation.