Since 1979, adults with special needs have been coming to Camp Glow to reunite with old friends, make new ones and grow in the light of the Lord. The camp at the Monsignor O’Dwyer Retreat House in Sparks was originally started by Sister Justa Walton, I.H.M., and in 2001, William Fleming, coordinator of Catechesis for Persons with Developmental Disabilities for the archdiocese, took over the camp.
“This is a chance for them to get together with folks, bond and share their gifts with others,” said Mr. Fleming. “One lady had her bags packed for weeks.”
Mass is celebrated daily at the camp and participants have the opportunity to make crafts, swim, engage in outdoor activities, take part in music lessons and much more. The number of people interested in attending the camp is so high, that Mr. Fleming has to turn some away. This year Mr. Fleming along with Bishop W. Francis Malooly, western vicar, raised enough money, thanks to a generous donation from the Schmidt family, for a second round of Camp Glow in August.
“It is amazing how excited they are about camp,” said Mr. Fleming. “There is a spiritual dimension here, we pray, we have Mass and the chapel is open every day.”
In order to have the maximum number of campers come to the August Camp Glow, Mr. Fleming needs about 14 counselors/volunteers or more to help out for the week. If interested in assisting with Camp Glow please contact Mr. Fleming at 410-547-5410 or bfleming@archbalt.org.