Collaboration Brings Summer Magic to Children with Vision Loss
Posted In Categories: Events, Volunteers, Staff & Board, Programs & Services, Living with Vision Loss
This summer, nearly 20 children from across Wisconsin experienced the joy, confidence, and connection that make Rainbow Day Camp so special.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to discover new strengths, build meaningful friendships, and experience the magic of summer camp. Our partnership with Vision Forward has made that possible for so many children over the past six years, and we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built together. Seeing campers grow in confidence, independence, and joy each summer is a reminder of why this partnership matters so much.” — Shelby Elias, Camp Director and Vision Forward Board Vice-President
Now in its sixth year, Rainbow Day Camp is made possible through a remarkable partnership between Vision Forward and the Albert & Ann Deshur JCC Rainbow Day Camp in Fredonia. Together, our organizations have created an inclusive experience where children who are blind or visually impaired can fully participate in classic summer camp adventures—from kayaking, adapted sports, music, cooking, and art to outdoor exploration and new friendships.
This collaboration would not be possible without the vision and dedication of Vision Forward Board Member Shelby Elias, Camp Director at the JCC, and Lenny Kass, Executive Director of the camp, whose shared commitment helped bring this partnership to life more than five years ago. Their leadership has created an extraordinary opportunity for children with vision loss to experience the independence, belonging, and confidence that every child deserves.
For many campers, Rainbow Day Camp is one of the few opportunities each year to spend time with peers who share similar experiences. The friendships they build and the confidence they gain extend far beyond a single week of camp, creating memories—and life skills—that last a lifetime.
We are deeply grateful to Shelby, Lenny, the dedicated JCC camp staff, our volunteers, families, and generous donors whose support makes this transformative experience possible year after year.