BELMONT — More than 100 supporters, donors, staff and families recently cut the ribbon to celebrate the reopening of Holy Angels’ Camp Hope following a two-year renovation and improvement project.
The recreational facility on the South Fork River provides a variety of outdoor experiences, including an accessible nature trail and pontoon boat rides for the residents of Holy Angels.
“We are thrilled to be returning to Camp Hope. This recreational facility provides an excellent opportunity for our residents to enjoy the great outdoors,” said Holy Angels’ CEO, Kerri Massey.
“The residents love the warm feeling of the sun on their faces and the cool breeze of the wind as they take a ride on the pontoon boat, named ‘Spirit of Maria,’ after our first resident, Maria Morrow.”
Holy Angels residents returned to camp the week of July 18. It was the first time since 2019 the residents have been able to use the facility, located on the South Fork of the Catawba River.
The 15-acre property was purchased in 1992 under the vision and leadership of Regina Moody, Holy Angels’ president. Camp Hope officially opened in 1994 and was designed to expand and enhance the specialized programs, services and recreational opportunities for the residents and participants. The camp features a wheelchair-accessible nature trail, boat dock, lodge, campfire pit and pavilion.
Over the years, several corporate and philanthropic groups have dedicated their time, talents and treasure to support Camp Hope. The Ability Experience, the philanthropic initiative of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, helped build many of the original structures, including the pavilion. The group has returned to support Holy Angels numerous times over the years, including this past spring to help restore outdoor areas of the camp.
The name Camp Hope was inspired by the Ability Experience’s Journey of Hope, a cross-country bicycle fundraiser that helps bring awareness of those who are differently able.
“Camp Hope brings our residents so much joy,” Massey said. “A warm smile demonstrates a happy heart, and that’s what this camp brings to our residents, participants, staff and volunteers. I can’t wait for the residents to get back out there to enjoy nature and each other.”
Holy Angels was founded in 1955 by the Sisters of Mercy. The private, nonprofit corporation located in Belmont provides residential services and innovative programs for children and adults with intellectual developmental disabilities and delicate medical conditions.
— Shawn Flynn
