Tina Collins is excited about her new position as executive director of SCAMP, a five-week camp each summer for children with a variety of disabilities.
Collins has big shoes to fill after former executive director, Donna Clancy announced she would retire on Aug. 18 after several years of service to the organization.
When she announced her retirement earlier this year, Clancy said the person that would replace her was someone passionate and caring, hardworking and organized. They need also be prepared for hard work and a deep commitment to the job.
Clancy, who handed over the reins a bit earlier than expected, worked with Collins for a while showing her the ropes.
‘Both Donna and I felt I was ready and it was time for me to get started,? Collins smiled.
Although she has big shoes to fill after Clancy left, she is ready for the challenge.
Collins applied for the position with SCAMP because she was impressed by all the good things going on with the organization, and how much the area values the program.
‘There is such great support from the community,? said Collins. ‘We also have a very strong board of directors which helps a great deal.?
‘It’s a fun job,? smiled Collins. ‘There are a lot of great things going on in the community, and I am looking forward to helping SCAMP continue to grow. ?
Since she took the job Collins has been busy introducing herself to community leaders, businesses and residents while planning the big events that support SCAMP.
Her first big job was working on the SCAMP Home Tour in June, one of the largest fundraisers for the organization that features tours of area homes.
Lately, Collins has been busy planning the Jingle and Mingle held in December and the upcoming 27th Annual Golf Classic held September 5th at Fountains Golf & Banquet in Clarkston.
The Annual Golf Classic, held to benefit SCAMP, kicks off at with a 4 person 18-hole golf scramble with registration and breakfast buffet beginning at 7:45 a.m. Shotgun golf begins at 9 a.m.
Fee for the event is $125 and includes the breakfast buffet, 18 holes of golf with a cart, beverage tickets and lunch on the turn, awards reception with an open bar, prizes, events and gift giveaways.
Collins said sponsorship opportunities are still available.
SCAMP was established in 1976, and offers a 5-week summer camp packed full of fun for children and young adults with disabilities. Since it was created, the program has grown from 75 students to now over 200 that participate each year.
SCAMP summer camp activities includes, games, music, art and activities to enhance motor skills.