In this impactful segment of SCVTV’s Community Corner, April Tani, Executive Director of The Painted Turtle, shines light on the local hidden gem that’s dedicated to bringing joy and happiness to children with serious medical conditions through its fun, adaptive and safe camp experience.

For more than 20 years, The Painted Turtle, which is located in Lake Hughes, has served more than 200,000 campers and their families. It was founded by Hollywood legend Paul Newman as a place for children with chronic and life threatening illnesses can just be kids.

Tani explains the meaning behind the name “The Painted Turtle” and how it has become symbolic of the way they view its campers: campers may have a hard exterior, but a soft interior. And The Painted Turtle gives kids with serious medical needs a chance to come out of their shell in a safe environment and encouraged to try something new.

The year-round, inclusive and adaptive programming includes swimming, archery, fishing, boating, ropes course and zip line, horseback riding, climbing wall, music, dancing, performing arts, family weekends and so much more. The camp also houses the Well Shell, a 24-hour, on-site, state-of-the-art medical facility, complete with a full-time medical staff.

And – it’s all for free – thanks to the kindness and generosity of other organizations, medical professionals, donors, volunteers and the community in general.

For more information on how you can donate or volunteer, head on over to https://www.thepaintedturtle.org/.

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