Excerpts from a camp counselor... We learned very quickly upon our arrival at Camp Sizanani that Camp is Camp and Kids are Kids! The campers are indeed living in special circumstances - their parents have died or will die of HIV/AIDS; many campers are already infected. Most come from very humble means, some from severe poverty. Many have never known what it is like to feel full after a meal. Some have experienced horrors that we only see in movies or read about in books. And yet, these girls were joyful, animated, gregarious, spirited, enthusiastic, courageous. They attempted tasks that terrified them (swimming), and relished opportunities to express themselves creatively (drama). They competed in sports, drew pictures and wrote poems. They were campers having fun and learning new things at camp - like any other camp. "Camp Sizanani is a home to me, a place of birth. It changed my life. You taught me how to believe in myself." Elizabeth, age 14. "My favorite activity is life skills. I learned about HIV and AIDS. And I love singing and making new friends." Sigongile, age 13. "I came here empty, but now I'm full." Busi, age 13. "Your educational games are teaching us to build a nation and fight HIV/AIDS. I'm going to share these games with children who didn't have the chance to come." Onica, age 15. "I never expected to find a place full of mountains and trees. It is quiet and gentle. I will never forget this place." Mmabatho, age 13.
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