01 October 2010
Provided by the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Advocacy Resource Center (DHHARC), Camp SignShine offers a week of fun through recreational and educational activities in a safe, comfortable, environment for deaf and hard of hearing children ages 7-19, their siblings and children of deaf adults (CODA). Held at the beautiful facilities of Camp Ronald McDonald on the shore of Eagle Lake, CA, just west of Susanville, this modern facility includes insulated log cabins, bathrooms with showers, cafeteria, amphitheater and waterfront access.
During their weeklong stay, campers can enjoy a variety of activities including:
- Hiking and biking
- Swimming
- Boat rides, canoeing, kayaking
- Rock climbing
- Drama and dance
- Fishing
- Gold panning
- Drama and dance
- Advanced Lego construction
- Sign language instruction
- Team games and leadership activities
All of Camp SignShine's staff members are skilled in sign language and are trained to provide individual attention to the campers. Staff members include community resource specialists, clerical, teachers, interpreters, parents, life guards, college students, nurses, paramedics and business professionals. Together, they contribute many volunteer hours to make Camp SignShine a success.
High school students who have completed 9th grade can apply for the Counselors in Training (CIT) program. Participants are selected based on their willingness to participate in activities, to work as a team and to follow directions. The CIT program includes activities such as low rope challenges, hiking, BBQ cookout and life skills discussions. Counselors in Training learn leadership skills to assist as group game leaders and general helpers with the younger campers in preparation for future roles as counselors. Many of the CITs return in subsequent years as volunteer staff members to continue the legacy.
Campers pay a $375 registration fee to attend the weeklong camp. The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Advocacy Resource Center provides full and partial assistance called "campership" for children who are in need of financial assistance. Individuals can also help a child go to Camp SignShine with a tax-deductible contribution of any amount. A donation may provide a "campership" of up to $300 per camper. Anyone interested in providing a campership to a Camp SignShine student, can make a donation to the DHHARC by mail or by credit card online.
For more information about Camp SignShine and The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Advocacy Resource Center, visit http://dhharc.org.


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