GLC's Program Snapshot
Our Mission
The Georgia Lions Camp’s program mission is to ignite the potential of individuals living with a visual impairment by providing transformative outdoor experiences that foster independence, self-confidence, and lifelong friendships while cultivating a spirit of adventure, personal growth, and inclusion in an empowering, supportive environment.
Our vision
Vision for a Brighter Tomorrow
Empowering individuals living with a visual impairment to thrive through inclusive, transformative experiences that ignite their potential to build a brighter future.
Our Values
I C GRREAT!
- Inclusion: Creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all.
- Community: Building strong relationships and a sense of belonging.
- Growth: Promoting personal and character development.
- Respect: Valuing individuals, diversity, and the environment.
- Resilience: Developing strength and perseverance.
- Empowerment: Fostering independence, self-confidence, and personal growth.
- Adventure: Inspiring exploration, challenge, and a love for the outdoors.
- Transformation: Providing a life-changing experience
These core values align with our mission to ignite the potential of Individuals living with a visual impairment through transformative outdoor experiences. They encapsulate our commitment to providing a supportive, empowering, and enriching environment for its campers.
Our Philosophy
We believe in empowering individuals living with a visual impairment to reach their full potential by providing transformative outdoor experiences. We are committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and adventurous environment where campers can build lifelong friendships, develop independence, and cultivate a deep appreciation for nature. By emphasizing respect, growth, and excellence, we strive to create a community that celebrates diversity and inspires personal transformation. Our philosophy is grounded in the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to explore, learn, and thrive regardless of their abilities.
Our Culture
Our Camp’s culture is enriched by our traditions, rituals, and shared experiences and built around the following:
- Inclusivity: A welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their visual abilities.
- Independence: Fostering self-reliance and personal growth through challenging and rewarding activities.
- Support: A strong sense of camaraderie and mutual assistance among campers and staff.
- Resilience: Overcoming challenges and celebrating accomplishments.
- Service: A commitment to giving back to the community and supporting others.
Our Mission
The Georgia Lions Camp’s mission is to ignite the potential of individuals living with a visual impairment by providing transformative outdoor experiences that foster independence, self-confidence, and lifelong friendships while cultivating a spirit of adventure, personal growth, and inclusion in an empowering, supportive environment
Our vision
Vision for a Brighter Tomorrow
Empowering individuals living with a visual impairment to thrive through inclusive, transformative experiences that ignite their potential to build a brighter future.
Our Values
I C GRREAT!
- Inclusion: Creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all.
- Community: Building strong relationships and a sense of belonging.
- Growth: Promoting personal and character development.
- Respect: Valuing individuals, diversity, and the environment.
- Resilience: Developing strength and perseverance.
- Empowerment: Fostering independence, self-confidence, and personal growth.
- Adventure: Inspiring exploration, challenge, and a love for the outdoors.
- Transformation: Providing a life-changing experience
- These core values align with our mission to ignite the potential of Individuals living with a visual impairment through transformative outdoor experiences. They encapsulate our commitment to providing a supportive, empowering, and enriching environment for its campers.
Our Philosophy
We believe in empowering individuals living with a visual impairment to reach their full potential by providing transformative outdoor experiences. We are committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and adventurous environment where campers can build lifelong friendships, develop independence, and cultivate a deep appreciation for nature. By emphasizing respect, growth, and excellence, we strive to create a community that celebrates diversity and inspires personal transformation. Our philosophy is grounded in the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to explore, learn, and thrive regardless of their abilities
Our Culture
Our Camp’s culture is enriched by our traditions, rituals, and shared experiences and built around the following:
- Inclusivity: A welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their visual abilities.
- Independence: Fostering self-reliance and personal growth through challenging and rewarding activities.
- Support: A strong sense of camaraderie and mutual assistance among campers and staff.
- Resilience: Overcoming challenges and celebrating accomplishments.
- Service: A commitment to giving back to the community and supporting others.
Our History
In 1972, the Okefenokee Lions Club recognized the need to provide recreational opportunities for the over 12,500 blind children in Georgia. Under the leadership of C.M. Blanton, a one-week summer camp was planned to be held at the Laura S. Walker State Park.In July 1974, other Lions Clubs in South Georgia asked District Governor Don Anderson to form a committee to establish a camp for blind residents of Georgia. District Governor Anderson presented the plans to the Georgia Lions Council of Governors and gained support throughout the state.On November 27, 1974, a group of Lions met with Governor Jimmy Carter to secure 62 acres of land next to the Laura S. Walker State Park to establish a camp for the visually impaired. The plans were approved, and by the following June, the Department of Natural Resources also approved the transfer of the 62 acres to the Georgia Lions. On September 12, 1975, the Georgia Lions’ Camp, Inc. was established as a non-profit organization. In 1976, it opened its doors and began offering life-changing experiences to individuals living with a visual impairment.
Core Team
Casey Carver
Director
Tonya Lastinger
Secretary
Clay Eddins
Facilities