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RAPID RIVER - At the April 8 annual Bay Cliff Health Camp fund-raiser, hosted by Rapid River Lions Club, the camp's executive director, Tim Bennett, explained what Bay Cliff Health Camp is, who it serves and what its ongoing mission has always been.

A non-profit, non-denominational camp for youth with physical disabilities, the primary mission of Bay Cliff is to assist individuals with physical disabilities in their goal of living a more independent life.

During their time at camp, children with orthopedic, speech, hearing and vision impairments are guided toward realization of a life that is as independent and fulfilling as possible. Working regularly with the camp's on-site therapists, the youth also enjoy camaraderie, a host of creative and fun learning activities, outdoor adventures and the opportunity to develop lifelong friendships.

A unique place where "children and adults with physical disabilities learn to believe in themselves, strive for fuller lives and realize their dreams,"

Bay Cliff Health Camp opened more than three-quarters of a century ago. Close to 200 children attend the camp each year, for a two-month time span. During their stay, they are versed in such areas as etiquette, personal care and other such practices. Campers also participate in numerous activities that offer them challenges and a great deal of fun.

Donations are accepted year round in order to keep the facility operational and to accommodate the 125 staff members at the camp.

The 2010 calendar of events for Bay Cliff is as follows:

April 22-23: U.P. Pediatric Therapy Workshop/Professional Development and Collaboration

May 17-19: Camp React for Children with Autism (Eastern U.P. ISD)

June 19: Children's Summer Session seven-week therapy program

July 17: Harley Davidson Bike Show & Raffle at American Legion Hall in Little Lake

July 18: Annual Bay Cliff Open at Marquette Golf & Country Club

Aug. 10-14: U.P. Sports Training Camp for Children with Disabilities

Aug. 20-28: Camp Independence for Adults with Disabilities

Sept. 10-12: Adaptive Paddling Workshop/Instructor Training

Sept. 13-24:Post Polio Health and Wellness Retreat for Polio Survivors.