VINNIES Youth Queensland ran their largest kids’ camp in three years last month, giving more than 30 children from disadvantaged families a holiday away from home.
Kids’ Camps offer respite and care for disadvantaged children who also participate in the monthly Buddies Day programs.
This year, the Mary Mackillop Foundation, an initiative that helps support community based projects, funded the camp.
Vinnies youth schools and ministries co-ordinator Cassandra Bull said Kids’ Camps were only possible with the support of organisations such as the Mary MacKillop Foundation, and dedicated volunteers.
Bonnie Benson, 26, and one of 32 volunteers at the camp, began volunteering for Buddies Days at the age of 19.
Seven years later, Bonnie is still passionate about the influence young people can have on children.
“I’ve got lots of time for these kids,” she said.
“It’s a satisfying feeling to be around them, because you know the adversity that they come from, and still they’re happy children.
“My personal philosophy is if you want to make change, start at the influential age when they’re young.”
Bonnie said volunteering for Vinnies led her to pursue a career in primary education, as well as work with the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian.
“But I’m not sure where that desire comes from; it’s sort of a chicken and egg situation,” she said.
“It’s everyone’s job to try and help, really – teachers, sporting coaches, anyone who interacts with young children.”
The Kids’ Camp organisers are preparing another camp mid-year, a plan that Bonnie supports wholeheartedly.
“As long as they’ve got the funding, I’ll always be a part of Kids’ Camps and Buddies Days,” she said.
“I think it’d be great if we could run one day in a school.
“It takes more than one day or even a month to build relationships and increase their trust.”
To find out more about Vinnies Youth, including information on volunteering for future Kids’ Camps, visit www.vinnies.org.au/youth-qld
