“Experiencing Moorelands should be something every kid gets a chance to do regardless of their financial situation.”
Jennifer Chisholm Paredes first started her Moorelands’ journey as a camper in the late 1980s, and went on to become a counsellor in the 1990s.
This year, we welcomed Jennifer to Moorelands Camp Visitors’ Day. She was so moved by Moorelands’ work in support of children and youth from under-served communities, she and her entire family decided to walk for Moorelands in the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon (STWM) 2015, raising a total of $990 to send more kids to camp.
“My family and I decided to walk for Moorelands because of what Moorelands means to me,” Jennifer explains.
“As a child, I was able to spend many summers at Moorelands, surrounded by great friends, fun and loving counsellors and of course immersed in nature. I was able to discover myself, my strengths and my weaknesses. I longed to be on the island as soon as the warm weather hit.
“Eventually, I was staff at Moorelands and spent summers growing into the person I am today with people who became lifelong friends.
“Every year the ‘magic’ of Moorelands called to me. Experiencing Moorelands should be something every kid gets a chance to do, regardless of their financial situation, and that’s why we decided to walk for Moorelands…so as many kids can experience the magic of Moorelands as possible.”
When I ask Jennifer what she thinks separates Moorelands from other camps and makes it so special, the Moorelands difference is clear: “I always felt more confident going home at the end of the summer – being here, being with friends and learning so many new things that you didn’t get a chance to do before, makes a big difference.
“At Moorelands, children and youth needing our support get the opportunity to change their environment, build lifelong friendships and learn skills that they can take back to their communities; an experience that can positively alter their path in the future.”
“I always felt more confident going home at the end of the summer.”
Jennifer, we’re so pleased to have reconnected with you and your family. Thank you for making an impact in the lives of Toronto children and youth!
This Christmas, why not join Jennifer and her family as they support Moorelands.
When picking out gifts for your friends and family, honour them by making one gift a donation in their name. Choose any amount and Moorelands will take care of the rest, including sending a lovely holiday card with your personal message inside to your friend. Find out more at moorelands.ca/christmas or give the gift of opportunity now.
Why not share your Moorelands story? Contact Helen at hbanham@moorelands.ca or call 416-466-9987 ext.312
Visit our Alumni page to read more stories from Moorelands’ alum.