Lions Camp Tatiyee is honored to recognize the Union Pacific Railroad Careers (Union Pacific Foundation) for their sponsorship in 2024, which enabled several children to attend our camp. Their ongoing partnership has been invaluable in helping us promote a higher quality of life for special needs youth across Arizona. Our camp offers a range of exciting activities designed to enhance confidence, independence, and self-esteem among our campers. Programs like playing in the mud pit, creating tie-dye shirts, and participating in various sports provide campers with opportunities to explore new interests, develop skills, and overcome challenges. These experiences foster a sense of accomplishment and personal growth, contributing significantly to their overall well-being. The mud pit, for example, allows campers to let loose and enjoy the pure fun of playing in a huge pit of mud, fostering a sense of freedom and joy. Creating tie-dye shirts encourages creativity and self-expression, as campers get to design and make their own colorful clothing. Our sports programs offer physical activity and teamwork, helping campers build fitness, coordination, and camaraderie. Beyond these activities, Lions Camp Tatiyee is a place where campers can meet peers who understand their challenges. This social aspect is crucial, as it allows campers to form lifelong friendships and a sense of community. These bonds provide emotional support and enhance the campers' quality of life by offering a network of understanding peers. We are deeply grateful to the Union Pacific Foundation for their support. Their generosity ensures that we can continue to provide these life-changing experiences to children with special needs, enhancing their quality of life through our comprehensive and inclusive programs. Thank you for your steadfast commitment to our mission and for helping us make a lasting impact on the lives of our campers. Your support is profoundly appreciated. (fb)

Jaycob, a quiet and contemplative camper, joined our Intellectually Challenged session with a mix of excitement and apprehension. He loves being part of activities but often feels caught between wanting to socialize and getting overwhelmed. Finding that balance can be tricky, but with the help of his counselor, JD, Jaycob discovered a newfound sense of comfort and joy at Camp Tatiyee. JD was a calm and supportive counselor, who played a significant role in Jaycob’s camp experience. JD helped Jaycob navigate the new and sometimes overwhelming environment by encouraging him to take small steps toward independence. Whether it was trying archery, tie-dyeing a shirt, or just taking a moment to enjoy the quiet with his headphones, JD was there to support him. Jaycobs favorite program was archery. The chance to pick up a bow and arrow and fire it off without anyone stopping him was just thrilling. The first time he got a bullseye, his excitement was nearly explosive! He couldn’t stop talking about it for the entire week, making sure everyone knew he got a bullseye. It was a sweet victory, showing him that trying new things could be rewarding. Jaycob thrived on the balance between engaging in activities and taking breaks when needed. Sometimes, he just needed a good hug and his headphones to recharge. Outside of camp Jaycob had a very rigid schedule and routine, so being in a new environment and trying new activities was a big stretch for him. It was also a huge point of personal growth. Throughout the week, Jaycobs confidence grew as he realized he could try new things and succeed. He learned that with a bit of encouragement and the right support, he could step out of his routine and embrace new experiences. Jaycobs journey at Lions Camp Tatiyee is a heartwarming reminder of the power of patience, support, and the courage to try new things. His story showcases the importance of creating a nurturing environment where every camper can find their balance and thrive. We’re so proud of Jaycobs progress and can’t wait to see him continue to grow and explore in the future! (fb)