The evidence is clear, according to Nancy Minckler, who works with Clawson Youth Assistance: Camp can change lives.

"The camp experience can change these kids' lives," Minckler said. "The new friendships, the new relationships they build there, the new experiences and accomplishments they have at camp — that can change their life in a very positive way."

Knowing this, Clawson Youth Assistance is trying to send as many Clawson children to camp as possible this year, and it is looking for help to do just that.

"Last year, we sent 13 kids to camp," Minckler said. "This year, I think we can send 10-15 more. That's our goal."

To reach this goal, however, Youth Assistance needs help from the Clawson community.

"It costs about $300 to send a child to camp," Clawson Mayor Penny Luebs said. "This year, we are reaching out to the business community as well as citizens to help send more children to camp and impact more lives."

Luebs, who serves as Youth Assistance chairwoman and recreational director, shares Minckler's desire to send more children to camps.

Both hope that by reaching out to businesses in Clawson, they can persuade many to sponsor a child by donating the funds needed to provide scholarships to camps,  ranging from adventure camps to fine art camps to even a camp in Nova Scotia (which is made possible by Tim Hortons).

"Clawson is made up of people who help each other out," Minckler said. "They help each other out, and they want to help each other out."

By donating funds needed for these scholarships, individuals and businesses alike will grant more than just a few days at camp to children of low-income families — they'll be providing experiences that can build self-esteem, boost confidence and create positive memories that will last a lifetime.

"You can see immediately the payoff of the camp experience," Luebs said. "These kids come back with a different outlook and a different attitude. It makes that much of a impact."

Although the program is handled with strict confidentiality, it's not uncommon for Youth Assistance to receive a thank you note from the child or the parents — a memento that volunteers, such as Minckler and Luebs, cherish.

"It just gives you a marvelous feeling," Luebs said. "It's what keeps you going."

It should be noted that Youth Assistance is a volunteer organization, meaning that 100 percent of every dollar donated goes directly to its programs. There are no administrative or overhead expenses.

Oakland County Family Court, the city of Clawson and Clawson Schools work in unison to make every Youth Assistance program possible — and there are many programs and volunteers working behind the scenes to make life better for children and their families.

To make a donation to Youth Assistance, send your check to: Youth Assistance, 626 Baker, Clawson, MI 48017. All donations are tax deductible.