Mum's the Word! Inside ‘Barrier-Free’ Summer Camp’s Million-Dollar High School Heyday

Mum's the Word! Inside ‘Barrier-Free’ Summer Camp’s Million-Dollar High School Heyday

Ginger Bertrand, Susan Walker, Sherwin Gill and Pat Prior Sorrells

THE JOYS OF summer camp are the makings of childhood memories, and contribute to a sense of self-worth and confidence — a fact that is doubly true for those who attend Camp For All, a Houston nonprofit that runs a “barrier-free” camp for children and adults with special needs in the Hill Country town of Burton.


More than 500 supporters, decked out in nostalgic high school-themed attire, attended Camp For All’s “Homecoming” gala at The Revaire. The evening, emceed by Emmy-winning journalist Richelle Carey, included a live auction and remarks by Andrew Simms of The Arc of Greater Houston, who discussed his experiences living with autism and how transformative an experience like Camp For All can be.

The gala also honored Laurie and Jack Maddox, who were dubbed the Homecoming Queen and King thanks to their ongoing support of the organization, and included rousing entertainment by Plush Party Band. The night garnered an impressive $1.1 million.

This year, Camp For All will once again welcome around 10,000 campers — who attend for free! — to its 206-acre site, where a roster of favorite camp activities and a compassionate staff await.

Jack and Laurie Maddox

Gary and Cindy Gerson

Heath and Jennifer Sechrist

Toni Miller, Allison Leibman and Jennifer Zach

Les and Vaughn Clark and John Hastings

Susan Wilson and Barbie Hermis

Louis and Marilyn Mogas

Melinda and Matt Mogas

Stacy and Rickie Duke

Mike and Diann Lewter, Mandy and Philip LeBlanc

Stacie and Rod Pitts

Roman and April McIntosh

Parties

THROUGHOUT ALL THREE floors of the stunning Glassell building on the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston campus, beginning Aug. 10, visitors will find colorful, thought-provoking works by one of the school's own: The first in a series of exhibits showcasing art by Glassell faculty members, Chaotic Nodes is a collection of paintings by instructor Arielle Masson.

Keep Reading Show less

MAKE THE MOST of every delicious bite this summer with the benefits of steam cooking. Whether you’re reviving leftovers from Houston’s hottest foodie hangout or hosting memorable gatherings at home, integrating steam into your cooking repertoire can take your food to the next level.

Keep Reading Show less