Charlotte Catholic volunteer Emma Keese (right) dances along with camper Audrey Kim and Camp SOAR Leadership Coordinator Grace Flanagan. (Photo provided) CHARLOTTE — The 23rd annual Special Olympics Athletic Retreat, better known as Camp SOAR, has again brought together a diverse community of volunteers and campers for sports, activities and camaraderie. Held at the Levine Jewish Community Center June 10-14, this year’s camp saw enthusiastic participation from Charlotte Catholic students and alumni, among many volunteers.
Founded by Bob Bowler, a longtime member of St. Gabriel Parish, Camp SOAR aims to provide a traditional summer camp experience tailored to individuals with special needs. Participants engaged in activities ranging from soccer, basketball and tennis to more unusual offerings such as bocce, boxing and pickleball. Beyond sports, campers enjoyed arts and crafts, dance sessions, fitness classes and even had the pleasure of interacting with therapy animals, including a mini-pony named Soleil.
Bowler’s dedication to the Special Olympics spans four decades, a commitment officially recognized this year at the camp’s closing ceremony, where he also received the Special Olympics Mecklenburg County Matt Hull Coach of the Year award.
Among the standout volunteers this year was rising CCHS senior Emma Keese, honored with the Vickie Bowler Memorial Volunteer of the Year award. Keese shared her personal motivation for involvement, citing her younger sisters Molly and Caroline, who have special needs.
“For years we have wanted the twins to have structure during the summer in a place that caters to their needs,” she explained. “Camp SOAR provides exactly that – a safe environment where every camper is welcomed and supported.”
Keese also highlighted the profound impact of her volunteer work. “I feel so fulfilled knowing I am not at Camp SOAR merely to check a box or get my service hours, but rather I am there to advocate for the campers and to help them have a good time,” she said.
Keese encourages others considering volunteering at Camp SOAR: “Step out of (your) comfort zone. … It could be difficult and unfamiliar at first, but that is the whole point. Camp SOAR is about being selfless and willing to help.”
Another dedicated volunteer, rising CCHS junior Ella Lengers, echoed Keese’s sentiment on the transformative power of Camp SOAR. For her, it is a powerful experience of joy that elevates all who are involved.
“This isn’t any ordinary summer camp,” Lengers explained, “this is a camp that really does soar … through activities and lifelong friendships.”
Camp SOAR continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of these individuals and others who generously give their time and energy, organizers say. The efforts of volunteers from local programs such as RyzeAb0ve Fitness, the Charlotte Soccer Academy, Allegro Dance, Havilah Dance and Expand Movement ensure that every camper experiences joy, camaraderie and the opportunity to excel in a supportive environment.
As Camp SOAR concludes another successful year, the entire community looks forward to its continued growth and impact, celebrating the spirit of inclusivity, collaboration and service that defines this remarkable event.
— Jeremy Kuhn, Special to the Catholic News Herald
