Five volunteers from the Lehigh Valley Press and two from Cedar Crest College School of Nursing visited the nonprofit organization Camelot for Children last Wednesday for animal week. The kids were treated to a demonstration of fast-paced course work and dog handling from the dogs and trainers at Lehigh Valley Dreamweavers Agility Club.

The volunteers shadowed five kids Wednesday, July 12, during Camelot for Children’s summer program from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

During the summer, Camp Camelot provides a free summer experience to children with medical challenges and special needs, ages 6 to 19 Monday through Friday until the end of July.

Each week, Camelot provides fun and exciting activities for the kids. Last week was animal week, where several visitors came to talk about their animals including Lehigh Valley Dreamweavers Agility Club. They came with their five course dogs to show off their training and tricks through an agility course consisting of jumps, weave poles, and a tunnel.

“It’s an eye-opening experience,” said Christine Campbell, Director of Circulation and Community Outreach at the Times News and Lehigh Valley Press. “Such a small thing, sitting and talking with them. Just giving them the opportunity to learn and interact with the animals. You can tell the children really enjoy their time there.”

Camelot for Children is a year-round program that provides children with disabilities, chronic or terminal illnesses a supportive, enriching environment. During the school year, Camelot offers a teen-central activities on a Friday night from 6 to 9 p.m. once a month. Children of all ages are welcome to come one Sunday a month from noon – 2 p.m. as well.

The program is free thanks to generous donors from the community. For more information on upcoming events or to learn how you can help, visit camelotforchildren.org.