One of the main missions of the Safe Haven Project, Inc. is to find the ways to reach out to young people living with HIV/AIDS. One way of achieving this is through the CAMP SAFE HAVEN programs. These retreat style camps have occurred annually since Safe Haven's inception; for nearly 16 years.

Camps are hosted on the beautiful island of Martha's Vineyard each April and in North Carolina in August.

Campers attend at absolutely no cost to their families due to the kind donations we receive from businesses, foundations and individuals.

A goal of CAMP SAFE HAVEN to create a stigma-free environment that encourages fun, camaraderie and mutual support.

Those who volunteer for CAMP SAFE HAVEN quite often describe the experience as "life-changing"; one that has powerful impact on their view of the world and civic engagement.

 OUR VOLUNTEERS

The Safe Haven Project Inc. is a volunteer organization. Without the on-going commitment of the literally hundreds of new volunteers over the years, there would be no Safe Haven Project, Inc. Each endeavor requires a litany of people to make it successful.

CAMP COUNSELORS

The Safe Haven Project, Inc. relies upon volunteer efforts in order to staff CAMP SAFE HAVEN. Counselors range in age from 18 years old and up, and are usually teens and young adults who contact us from high schools, colleges, and conferences where Safe Haven Project, Inc. has presented a SPEAKOUT presentation.

We select young people who exemplify the ideals of service and have a desire to work with children. Many counselors are planning a career in the medical field, or in the social services. They are asked to dedicate themselves to the entire program week, and a comprehensive training agenda which educates them on HIV/AIDS, Universal Precautions, Conflict resolution, confidentiality, and compassion. Attendance at training, as well as a complete medical and background check are required before a person can become a volunteer.

The Administration of Safe Haven Project, Inc. seeks a well rounded group of counselors for each camp, with an eye for special talents, and creative skills. Each camp requires a counseling staff of approximately 50% of the camper attendance total in order to maintain our consistent counselor to camper ratio of approximately 1: 2, the highest of any program we know of. This highly individualized attention, allows for greater connection with the campers, as well as for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for the counselors.

Interested in becoming a Camp Counselor? Contact Program Director – Jermaine Nakia Lee at thesafehavenproject@gmail..com

JUNIOR COUNSELORS

Often we receive requests from young people who are not quite old enough to become full fledged counselors. Safe Haven Project, Inc. established a Junior Counselor component for this reason. Former camper alumni and applicants who are 15- 17 years old may apply for a one year Junior Counselor. These applicants must display maturity, and willingness to be mentored by an adult, experienced counselor. JCs are not in charge of campers medical routines; rather they assist the Counseling staff with activity organization, setup and clean up.  JCs must attend the full training session, and participate in staff meetings.

 Interested in becoming a Junior Counselor? Contact Program Director – Jermaine Nakia Lee at thesafehavenproject@gmail..com

 NURSING STAFF

Due to the nature of HIV infection, a round the clock staff of nursing professionals is required to assure the safety of campers and staff. There are a minimum of two on-duty Registered Nurses on each 8 hour shift, including overnight. These nurses are volunteers and come to CAMP SAFE HAVEN from many renowned hospitals in the United States. Each camp is held under the direction of Safe Haven Project, Inc. Nursing Director – Linda Fasci.  Local hospitals are also intimately involved in the camps medical process whenever necessary.

Interested in becoming a Volunteer Nurse? Please contact Ms. Fasci at lafmv@yahoo.com

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

CAMP SAFE HAVEN is unique , in that,  unlike traditional camps where campers generally remain on site and involved in more traditional camp activities, campers at a Safe Haven Project, Inc. camp are often immersed in the community around them. Artists, business leaders, and local community groups all become involved in creating activities and events for the campers to enjoy. There are trips into the community often on a daily basis. These interactions with a loving community help to foster the understanding that these children are accepted for who they are, regardless of their affliction. Most campers consider communities where a CAMP SAFE HAVENhas been established, to be a safe place for them to return to in the future.

Would you, your business or organization like to get involved with CAMP SAFE HAVEN or explore ways to support the Safe Haven Project, Inc.?  Please contact Program Director – Jermaine Nakia Lee at thesafehavenproject@gmail.com.

          

            Send to: Program Director

Jermaine Nakia Lee

      Safe Haven Project, Inc.

                  922 Greenleaf Avenue - Suite A

                     Charlotte, North Carolina 28202