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A message from the Director For many years the Lions of Nevada and the Truckee-Lake Tahoe region of California, officially known as “Lions District 4-N (now designated District 46),” searched for a major service project that would provide a common benefit to residents throughout our diverse geographic region. In the summer of 1988 the idea was conceived of a week-long recreational summer camp for children of families who were not financially able to affordthe expensive private camps in the region. After a year-and-a-half of intense planning, Camp Dat-So-La-Lee was voted the District’s primary service project by delegates to the 1989 District 4-N Convention. The first camp was held in late June, 1990, at Camp Lamoille in the spectacular Ruby Mountains near Elko, now the permanent site for the camp. It, and the subsequent camps, proved to be resounding successes, with the youths taking home many souvenirs and memories of the unforgettable week. Since that first camp, almost 500 deserving children have laughed, learned, and loved the camp. Professional counselors and Lions volunteers staff the camp with a high ratio of adults to the ten-and eleven-year-old children, so that each camper will receive the closest personal attention and TLC possible. The goal is to make a difference in the lives of these kids from families of modest means. In all camp activities positive attitudes are the order On the first night the kids are surprised with the dining hall tables covered with soft, cuddly stuffed animals. The shopping process to select just the right bunk buddy for the week is a sight to behold. Everything at camp is designed around the idea of wholesome fun. Following an Indian theme throughout, the campers are divided into ‘tribes’ of eight kids and two university student counselors who work, play and eat as a group all week, developing many close friendships. What’s in a camp day? Sports Field, Mountains and a Stream, Flowers and a Pond, Wildlife and Birds, Archery Range, BB Gun Range, Giant Teepee, Beavers’ Workshop, Trading Post, Arts and Crafts, Tie Dye, Confidence Course, Nature Trails, Lots of Good Food Yells & Cheers, Ice Cream, Making New Friends, Free Time, Laughing, Hikes, Songs & Skits and best of all, Surprises Each day culminates in a fun-filled evening campfire program. And what a menu! A wholesome array of delicious meals is served throughout the week, along with light snacks at appropriate times. The menu has been adapted from a school district summer camp menu by a certified nutritionist and the camp chef, who has over ten years experience in camp cooking. Each Lions Club in the District is asked to sponsor a deserving child from its home town, and today more than 75 percent of the clubs participate. The Lions provide everything for the children at camp except clothing and personal items. There’s even an extra blanket for the sleeping bag. The camp is funded by a $125 club sponsorship fee, annual club contributions, and the sale of Dat-So-La-Lee lottery calendars. Monies collected in excess of the annual operating costs are added to its George F. Hamilton Endowment Fund, currently approaching 65 percent of its goal. The camp is named in honor of Dat-So-La-Lee, a 19th century member of the Washoe tribe of the northwestern Nevada and Lake Tahoe region, who many consider to be the greatest Native American basket weaver in recorded history. Her baskets are found in private collections around the world and in prestigious museums like the Smithsonian. Many of her baskets are displayed in the Nevada State Museum and the Nevada Historical Society. During the campers’ activities they learn more about this fascinating woman and her superb skills. In 1998 the camp became fully accredited by the American Camping Association. This nationally-recognized program focuses on all quality, health and safety issues. The camp has earned this mark of distinction. And for many financially disadvantaged campers and their families, Dat-So-La-Lee is literally a dream come true. IF YOU’RE A LION IN 4-N, CONSIDER BECOMING A CAMP VOLUNTEER. IT WILL BE A MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCE!
For more information on the camp contact . . . |