2012 Christmas Telethon Raises $62,615

The 2012 University of Wisconsin-Platteville Christmas Telethon in support of Wisconsin Badger Camp encouraged viewers to help make the campers fairy tale come true as the student hosts revealed that over $62,000 was raised during the 10-hour live telethon.  All the proceeds of the Telethon will go directly to helping send individuals with developmental disabilities to Wisconsin Badger Camp next summer.

“On behalf of the Wisconsin Badger Camp board of directors, staff, and most importantly the campers, we would like to thank everyone for helping make the Christmas Telethon a success. We would like to thank the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and Chancellor Shields for their years of dedication to the Christmas Telethon. Thank you to all the students, alumni and Media Technology Services staff who helped make the production possible,” said Brent Bowers, Wisconsin Badger Camp Executive Director.  “Thank you to all of our corporate and community sponsors that gave their support. The live auction would not have been possible without the generous donations from all the local businesses, sports teams, and celebrities. We appreciate all the viewers who tuned in as well as everyone who joined us in person making a pledge or bidding on an auction item. It is incredible to see so many people come together to help our campers,” Bowers said.

The theme for this year’s telethon was “Once Upon a Time” and included interviews with University of Wisconsin-Platteville officials, Wisconsin Badger Camp staff, corporate and community sponsors, and of course campers helped convey the importance of community support to Wisconsin Badger Camp. Wisconsin Badger Camp does not receive state or federal funding, which makes every donation that much more important. The day was filled with great talent acts such as carolers, dancers, and live music which entertained viewers at home as well as a live audience.  All of the talent volunteered their time to be part of this community event.

Wisconsin Badger Camp is an independent nonprofit organization located approximately 10 miles south of Prairie du Chien which served over 900 individuals with developmental disabilities in 2012.  Providing outdoor recreational experiences such as fishing, hiking, camping, horseback riding, canoeing, and arts & crafts, Wisconsin Badger Camp brings a tradition of outdoor recreational experiences to people of any ability or age regardless of their financial situation.  Badger Camp relies heavily on the community’s time, talent, and financial support to provide for its campers.  If you or someone else you know would like more information on how to get involved, please call the Platteville office at (608) 348-9689 or visit our website at: www.badgercamp.org.

Telethon Corporate and Community Sponsors Include: University of Wisconsin-Platteville, , The Grant and Iowa County Tavern League, Faherty Inc, TUBB CLUBB, Platteville Jaycees, Wisconsin Bank & Trust, Platteville Thrift Shop, Mound City Bank, Century Link, Platteville Elks Lodge #1460, Design Homes, Inc. /Deer Valley Lodge, Livingston State Bank, Pioneer Ford, Platteville Optimists, Wal-Mart, State Theatres and Delta 3 Engineering.. 

Badger Camp would also like to recognize businesses that donated services and made donations the day of the Telethon to support the Telethon staff and volunteers: Bridal Boutique, , J-Paul’s, Cost Cutters, Cuttin’ Up , Marty Busch and Busch Music, Pianos, and Organs, McDonald’s, Milio’s, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Papa Murphy’s, Quiznos, Subway of Platteville, Dairy Queen, Taco Johns, and Pizza Hut.

39th Annual Telethon a Success!

Saturday afternoon and evening was a busy day for us at Wisconsin Badger Camp, but the craziness was more than worth it.  The 39th annual Telethon was a success! Thanks to the volunteers, staff, community organizations, businesses, donors, and bidders, there was over $62,000 raised for camp! This will go towards camperships and other necessities to make camp the best place it can be for everyone who attends. 

Thanks to all of you who helped with the Telethon - we couldn't do it without you!

The total at the end of the night - amazing! 

The Chancellor came once again to show his support for the Telethon

Patrick, one of our hosts (and a WBC Counselor!) showing the items up for auction

The singing of Christmas carols was just one of the wonderful talents shared with the viewers of the Telethon

A camper played some songs for us on his accordion 

The Platteville Thrift Shop is a long time supporter of the Telethon, and we appreciate their generosity again this year

This was Talia's first year being a host, and we all think she did a great job!

Abby interviewing a camper and her mom

Ryan made sure to make each talent act feel welcome

Count Down to Christmas Telethon

   Tomorrow is the day we've all been waiting for: The 39th annual Christmas Telethon!  Final preparations are taking place to make this the best Telethon yet.  

   A big thanks to our corporate sponsors who have already helped to make Telethon a success, and thank you in advance to all of you who will bid on auction items tomorrow! Think of it as giving the best Christmas gift ever - giving a camper a chance to experience camp.  As if that wasn't enough, you'll be getting an amazing auction item for yourself! 

   Don't forget to look at the items on the Badger Camp website, and to tune in tomorrow to bid on your favorite items. In the meantime, check out some pictures from last year's Telethon: 

 

Telethon is an exciting time for us at Wisconsin Badger Camp, and we hope you will join us tomorrow and see what this year has in store for us!

Dubuque Racing Association Awards $5,000 grant to Wisconsin Badger Camp

New Forms of Communication

Dubuque Racing Association and Junior Chamber International Wisconsin (JCI) funded new two-way VHF hand-held and mobile radios to Wisconsin Badger Camp. JCI Wisconsin has adopted Wisconsin Badger Camp as their state project to help raise money for these radios. Wisconsin Badger Camp is also a proud recipient of a matching grant from the DRA to help pay for the cost of the new radios and tower that needs to be built.   In 2013, it will be required that Wisconsin Badger Camp renew their RFCC (broadcast) license and upgrade to a Narrow Band Frequency. The radios are a communication lifeline for counselors, leadership staff, and medical staff as they assist campers on horseback riding, hiking, fishing, canoeing, and camping trips. The radios also give camp the immediate contact with the local hospital and rescue squad. The addition of these new two-way VHF hand-held and mobile radios will be a major part of Wisconsin Badger Camp this summer. Because of these two organizations, the new radios will allow staff to provide a safer camping environment for the campers each summer.   

Top Ten Benefits to Volunteering

1) Learn or develop a new skill
2) Make new friends and connections
3) Gain a sense of achievement
4) Boost your career options by enhancing your resume
5) Teach your skills to others
6) Improve your health (studies have shown volunteering has great impacts on people's       health!)
7) Add fun and fulfillment to your life
8) Build self-esteem and confidence
9) Express gratitude for help you may have received from an organization, or show               support for what the organization is doing in the community
10) Make a difference in someone's life

Discover all these benefits and more - call Wisconsin Badger Camp and ask how you can volunteer today! :)

Wisconsin Badger Camp: A Life-Changing Organization

Wisconsin Badger Camp changes lives. This much is obvious through the number of campers that join us every summer, and how each one leaves with a bright joy in his or her eyes. Is this happiness simply due to a great time at camp, or is there more behind it?

Studies have shown that spending time in the outdoors has numerous benefits for everyone, but specifically those with developmental disabilities. The University of Florida Extension notes that benefits include stress reduction, building self-esteem, responsibility, sensory stimulation, and the ease of emotional pain. Enjoying nature also provides individuals with a feeling of peace as well as an appreciation of the world around them.

Camp not only provides time participating in outdoor activities, but also those who are developmentally disabled a way to socialize outside the home. For many, being part of a group is not only emotionally satisfying, but it also allows them to share a part of themselves with others. This socialization is a necessity in every human life, yet is often much more difficult for those who come to camp. WBC provides the outlet they need to be comfortable socializing with others, and in turn they become more comfortable in whom they are. Friendships are formed, and the individuals are better able to live and grow in the community.

Wisconsin Badger Camp has many therapeutic opportunities for our campers, and we do everything possible to make it the best experience that it can be for each and every individual that we serve. Through our love and service, we strive to transform lives.

Halloween Party

 Last Friday night almost 200 people gathered at the BARn in Platteville to support Wisconsin Badger Camp and start their Halloween weekend off right. Road Trip played a great set and kept everyone dancing late into the night. Everyone also enjoyed watching to see what creative costume would be next to walk in the door. It was a night full of fun, music, costumes, and Wisconsin Badger Camp - does a Halloween weekend get better than that?

Toddlers and Tiaras Group

"Words with Friends" showing support for the band

Everyone had a great time at the Halloween Party

"Jamaican Bobsled Team" won 1st place in the costume contest in the Group Category

"NFL Refs" enjoying the night

Road Trip ensured that everyone had a fun night

Even Road Trip dressed up in costumes

Putting on a great show

October 27th - Make a Difference Day

Did you know that this week Saturday is Make a Difference Day? Here at WBC we know first-hand just how much of a difference individuals can make. 

Without our dedicated volunteers, our summer program would not be possible. Volunteers help throughout the year with a variety of projects ranging from building or cleaning to assisting at events. No matter what area of skills shine, there are ways for everyone to help Wisconsin Badger Camp. If you are interested in learning more about volunteering at Badger Camp, don't hesitate to contact us, or look on the website for more information.
 
Our supporters make a huge difference to us as well. The generosity of our supporters never ceases to amaze us, and like volunteers, camp wouldn't be possible without them. Through donations or simply showing up at events to show love for WBC, nothing goes unnoticed.
 
And what better way is there to ring in Make a Difference Day then coming out and having fun with WBC at the BARn on Friday October 26th? Road Trip will be playing an amazing set list, there will be a costume contest with cash prizes, and all proceeds go to Wisconsin Badger Camp! It's a great way to start your Halloween weekend, and to make a difference.

TUBB CLUBB puts the "FUN" in Fundraising

TUBB CLUBB invites its members and the public to its annual meeting on Friday, November 30th. The meeting will start at 6 p.m. at the Ticket Bar & Grill. Bring a dish to pass or a friend for raffles, drinks, food & FUN!!!! All proceeds benefit the Christmas Telethon in support of Wisconsin Badger Camp!

Mark Your Calendars!!!

You're definitely going to want to mark  your calendars for this one: On Friday, October 26th, Road Trip is coming to the BARn in Platteville, and all proceeds are going to Wisconsin Badger Camp! It is going to be an amazing night with great rock cover music and a costume contest. There are even going to be cash prizes! It's going to be a night you don't want to miss.

So dig out your best Halloween costume and head out to the BARn on October 26th. It will be a great way to kick of your Halloween weekend and support Wisconsin Badger Camp. Hope to see you all there!

Racine Community Foundation supports Wisconsin Badger Camp

Wisconsin Badger Camp is the proud recipient of a $4,000 grant from the Racine  Community Foundation. The grant helped individuals with developmental disabilities from Racine County that attended Wisconsin Badger Camp this summer.

By providing outdoor recreational experiences such as fishing, hiking, camping, horseback riding, canoeing, and swimming, Wisconsin Badger Camp brings a tradition of outdoor recreational experiences to people of any ability or age regardless of one’s financial situation.
            “On behalf of our board of directors, our staff, and most importantly our campers, we would like to say thank you for supporting Badger Camp and individuals from the Racine area,” Wisconsin Badger Camp Development Director, Kayla Smith said. “It costs over $800 to host a camper for one week at camp, though we only request a fee of $600. The Racine Community Foundation has provided us with a grant to help individuals come to camp regardless of their financial situation,”  Smith said. “The continued support of the Racine Community Foundation has been instrumental in continuing our Campership Program and we are extremely grateful for their support,” Smith said. 

Wisconsin Badger Camp is an independent nonprofit organization located approximately 10 miles south of Prairie du Chien and served over 830 individuals with developmental disabilities this summer. Badger Camp relies on the community’s time, talent, and financial assistance to provide for its campers. If you or someone else you know would like more information on how to make a donation or tour information please call Wisconsin Badger Camp at (608) 348-9689 or visit our website at: www.badgercamp.org.

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Alliant Energy Foundation Volunteer Program Gives to Badger Camp

Wisconsin Badger Camp is proud to announce it is the recipient of a $400 donation from Harold Faherty. Harold Faherty is a Retiree Volunteer for the Alliant Energy Foundation. The foundation consists of individuals such as Harold taking time and making a difference for his neighbors and friends. The Alliant Energy Foundation then recognizes the volunteer by awarding a grant in their honor. Wisconsin Badger Camp is honored to be the recipient of this grant given by Faherty.

United Fund of Iowa County Supports Wisconsin Badger Camp

Wisconsin Badger Camp is the proud recipient of a $2,500 grant from the United Fund of Iowa County.  This grant will be used to provide Camperships to 21 campers in Iowa County.  With the help of the United Fund of Iowa County, Wisconsin Badger Camp was able to serve 838 campers this past summer regardless of the severity of their disability or ability to pay the requested camp fee.

 By providing outdoor recreational experiences such as fishing, hiking, camping, horseback riding, canoeing, and arts & crafts, Wisconsin Badger Camp brings the tradition of outdoor recreational experiences to people of any ability or age regardless of one’s financial situation. 

 “We appreciate the commitment the United Fund of Iowa County  made to support youth and adults with developmental disabilities,” Wisconsin Badger Camp Development Director, Kayla Smith said. “We truly appreciate this donation and the continuous commitment,” Smith said. 

Wisconsin Badger Camp is an independent nonprofit organization located approximately 10 miles south of Prairie du Chien and serves approximately 800 individuals with developmental disabilities each summer. Badger Camp relies on the community’s time, talent, and financial assistance to provide for its campers. Camp starts June 9^h and runs through August 17^th.  If you or someone else you know would like more information on how to make a donation or tour information please call Wisconsin Badger Camp at (608) 348-9689 or visit our website at: www.badgercamp.org.

Upcoming Appreciation Dinner

A big thank you to all of our volunteers and donors!!!! Though it's impossible to express how grateful we are for all of you, we still want to do all we can to show you how much you mean to us. And what better way to do that than great food and even better company? That's why we will be hosting our annual Appreciation Dinner at camp this weekend. Camp would not be possible without you, and we are looking forward to seeing you at the dinner!

Grant/Iowa County Tavern League Supports Wisconsin Badger Camp

Wisconsin Badger Camp is proud to announce it is the recipient of a $5,000 donation from the Grant/Iowa County Tavern League. This donation is designated as a community sponsorship for the 39^th Annual Christmas Telethon, produced on Saturday, December 1st at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.  

The Grant/Iowa County Tavern League raised $2,500 through their annual Golf Outing on Monday, July 30^th at Dodge Point Country Club in Dodgeville, WI.  Golfers enjoyed a day of raffle prizes, golf, and friendly competition.  The Tavern League Foundation and the Tavern League 3^rd district will be matching $2,500 of the funds.

“On behalf of our volunteer board of directors, our staff, and most importantly our campers, we would like to thank the Grant and Iowa County Tavern League for their dedicated support,” Wisconsin Badger Camp Executive Director Brent Bowers said. “The Wisconsin Tavern League truly has been instrumental in helping Badger Camp grow,” Bowers said.  To date, the Grant/Iowa County Tavern League has raised over $95,000 for Wisconsin Badger Camp with this annual event.

Wisconsin Badger Camp is a private, non-profit organization, serving the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities by providing quality outdoor recreational experiences.  Wisconsin Badger Camp welcomes individuals regardless of their age, gender, location, ability to pay a camp fee, or severity of their disability. Anyone interested in learning more about Wisconsin Badger Camp please call (608) 348-9689 or visit www.badgercamp.org

Brent Bowers, Executive Director, and Kayla Smith, Development/Communications Director for Wisconsin Badger Camp with Dan Timmerman, President of the Grant/Iowa County Tavern League

Cheese Days Parade - A Fun Time for All

This past Sunday, Badger Camp participated in the Cheese Days parade, and we were fortunate enough to have some very wonderful campers join us :) The day was filled with fun from start to finish for all. Before the parade started, we decorated the bus and received a visit from a Great Dane therapy dog (though judging from his size it may have been a small horse...). Though the candy didn't last long once the parade started, we still enjoyed walking and waving to the crowds. It was a great turnout, and we enjoyed sharing our love for Wisconsin Badger Camp with everyone there. 

Excited to walk in the parade!

The visit from the therapy dog.

Waving and handing out candy to the crowds.

"Badger Camp and Cheddar, What Could Be Better?"

Cheese Days!

The bus is decorated with pictures of cheese, and it can only mean one thing: Wisconsin Badger Camp is heading to Monroe on Sunday for the Cheese Days Parade!  Campers and staff members will be walking in the parade - enjoying the sunshine and promoting camp :) Keep an eye out for us! "Badger Camp and Cheddar, What Could be Better?"

Judd S. Alexander Supports Wisconsin Badger Camp

Wisconsin Badger Camp is the proud to announce it is the recipient of a $1,000 donation from Judd S. Alexander. The donation will be put towards a campership program, making it possible for individuals with developmental disabilities to attend Wisconsin Badger Camp.

By providing outdoor recreational experiences such as fishing, hiking, camping, horseback riding, canoeing, and arts & crafts, Wisconsin Badger Camp brings a tradition of outdoor recreational experiences to people of any ability or age regardless of one’s financial situation.

 “We are very appreciative of Judd S. Alexander for helping us provide adults and children with developmental disabilities with outdoor recreational services,” Wisconsin Badger Camp Development Director, Kayla Smith said. “It costs over $800 to host a camper for one week at camp, but we realize many of the individuals we serve are on limited or restricted incomes. With the support of Judd S. Alexander, individuals can come to camp regardless of what their financial situation is.”.

Wisconsin Badger Camp is an independent nonprofit organization located approximately 10 miles south of Prairie du Chien and serves approximately 800 individuals with developmental disabilities each summer. Badger Camp relies on the community’s time, talent, and financial assistance to provide for its campers. If you or someone else you know would like more information on how to make a donation or for tour information please call Wisconsin Badger Camp at (608) 348-9689 or visit our website at: www.badgercamp.org.

Badger Camp Receives Generous Donation from Alliant Energy Foundation

Wisconsin Badger Camp is the proud recipient of a $1,200 donation from the Alliant Energy Foundation. The financial support will be put towards a campership program, making it possible for individuals with developmental disabilities to attend Wisconsin Badger Camp.

By providing outdoor recreational experiences such as fishing, hiking, camping, horseback riding, canoeing, and arts & crafts, Wisconsin Badger Camp brings a tradition of outdoor recreational experiences to people of any ability or age regardless of one’s financial situation.

 “We are very appreciative of the Alliant Energy Foundation for helping us provide adults and children with developmental disabilities with outdoor recreational services,” Wisconsin Badger Camp Development Director, Kayla Smith said. “It costs over $800 to host a camper for one week at camp, but we realize many of the individuals we serve are on limited or restricted incomes. With the support of the Alliant Energy Foundation, individuals can come to camp regardless of what their financial situation is.”

Wisconsin Badger Camp is an independent nonprofit organization located approximately 10 miles south of Prairie du Chien and serves approximately 800 individuals with developmental disabilities each summer. Badger Camp relies on the community’s time, talent, and financial assistance to provide for its campers. If you or someone else you know would like more information on how to make a donation or for tour information please call Wisconsin Badger Camp at (608) 348-9689 or visit our website at: www.badgercamp.org.

Knights of Columbus Holy Trinity Council #12183 Donates to Wisconsin Badger Camp

            Wisconsin Badger Camp is proud to announce it is the recipient of a $347.55 donation from Knights of Columbus Holy Trinity Council #12183. The hard work of the Knights of Columbus Holy Trinity Council is greatly appreciated.  The money is raised through their popular tootsie roll sale and is a great example of how something so simple can do such great things.  This donation will provide financial assistance to local individuals with developmental disabilities that will attend Wisconsin Badger Camp this summer.

Located 10 miles south of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin Badger Camp is a non-profit organization that serves individuals with developmental disabilities by providing quality outdoor recreational experiences. Wisconsin Badger Camp accepts campers regardless of age, severity of a disability, or financial situation.  This summer, 922 individuals with developmental disabilities had the opportunity to experience swimming, hiking, camping, and making friends that last a lifetime at Wisconsin Badger Camp. 

The Knights of Columbus truly embodies the spirit of volunteerism through the time they spend volunteering and funds they have donated to help improve the quality of Wisconsin Badger Camp’s facilities and programs.

“On behalf of our board of directors, staff, and most importantly our campers, we would like to thank the Knights of Columbus Holy Trinity Council for their donation to Wisconsin Badger Camp,” Wisconsin Badger Camp Development/Communications Director, Kayla Smith said.  “Wisconsin Badger Camp is extremely proud of our relationship with the Knights of Columbus and are very appreciative of their efforts to help us fulfill our mission of serving individuals with developmental disabilities.  This year, with more campers than ever before, we are extremely grateful for what the Knights of Columbus do for Wisconsin Badger Camp,” Smith said.

            If you or someone else you know would like more information on how to make a donation or tour information please call Wisconsin Badger Camp at (608) 348-9689 or visit our website at: www.badgercamp.org.

Kayla Smith the Developmental/Communications Director for Wisconsin Badger Camp, with the Knights of Columbus Holy Trinity Council #12183 at their annual family picnic.

Thank You Badger Camp Staff

A big thank you goes out to all of our 2012 camp staff! It's safe to say that our 2012 summer camp was a success thanks to all of you! You're hard work and dedication to camp is greatly appreciated!



Lancaster Knights of Columbus Council #2820 Donates to WI Badger Camp

Wisconsin Badger Camp is proud to announce it is the recipient of a $259.30 donation from the Lancaster Knights of Columbus Council #2820. The hard work of the Lancaster Knights of Columbus is greatly appreciated. This donation will provide financial assistance to local individuals with developmental disabilities that will attend Wisconsin Badger Camp this summer.

Located 10 miles south of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin Badger Camp is a non-profit organization that serves individuals with developmental disabilities by providing quality outdoor recreational experiences. Wisconsin Badger Camp accepts campers regardless of age, severity of a disability, or financial situation.  This summer over 800 individuals with developmental disabilities had the opportunity to experience swimming, hiking, camping, and making friends that last a lifetime at Wisconsin Badger Camp.

The Knights of Columbus truly embodies the spirit of volunteerism through the time they spend volunteering and funds they have donated to help improve the quality of Wisconsin Badger Camp’s facilities and programs.

“On behalf of our board of directors, staff, and most importantly our campers, we would like to thank the Lancaster Knights of Columbus for their donation to Wisconsin Badger Camp,” Wisconsin Badger Camp Development/Communications Director, Kayla Smith said.  “Wisconsin Badger Camp is extremely proud of our relationship with the Knights of Columbus and are very appreciative of their efforts to help us fulfill our mission of serving individuals with developmental disabilities,” Smith said.

If you or someone else you know would like more information on how to make a donation or tour information please call Wisconsin Badger Camp at (608) 348-9689 or visit our website at: www.badgercamp.org.

Development Director Kayla Smith & Lancaster KC members with family