Treasures of Heaven Family Camp in Camberg, Germany

7th – 12th July 2015 Camberg, Germany Participants and staff: 38

1st Gen: Lisa Janssen, Main staff and educators

Maria Pammer, David Hanna, Burgy Celi 2nd Gen: Kleemens Hoffman, Grace Barata

The Treasures of Heaven Ministry in the European Blessed Family Department was created to provide a care and support network for families with children with mental and physical disabilities.

This unique summer camp was the third of it’s kind in Europe, designed to support 2nd generation with physical or mental special needs, which would inhibit them from joining in with other activities independently. Our TOH participants were therefore supported by both their parents and 2nd generation volunteers, which brought a wonderful family dimension to the workshop. We were able to enjoy at least one session all together each day, whilst also giving space for parents and children to follow separate programs that catered to their specific needs.

Basic schedule and main activities Overall feeling and conclusions The Second Generation (TOH participants and their buddies) enjoyed a varied and flexible program of art therapy, music therapy, dance and games. One afternoon was spent swimming and Overall, the workshop was a great success; so much so that playing beach volleyball at the pool. Time was also set aside for more internal content, including it has inspired the organisers to run it every year instead of talks from the second generation staff about the summer motto, an introduction to the prayer every 2 years. It was wonderful for the TOH participants to room, as well as small group discussions about the blessing (with those for whom it was be able to participate and express themselves in a workshop appropriate). environment. It was eye opening for the second generation volunteers, who were given a unique opportunity to get to The first generation (parents and staff) participated in sessions focusing on strategies to help cope know our vibrant participants, and who very naturally helped with some of the challenges that might be faced, took time out to share and receive guidance, and to create a free and accepting family atmosphere. It was also participated in art therapy sessions, which connected to the work of some of their children. necessary for the parents as it created an environment where they could take time out of the stresses of daily life to Amongst the highlights of the workshop were the sessions that were spent all together. These relax, whilst simultaneously creating a stronger support included a camp fire and family evening which featured excellent entertainment from our talented network. Many thanks to all the staff and generous financial parents (former Go World Brass Band members) and the TOH participants themselves! contributions, which made this important workshop possible!