Camp offers kids chance to be Super Heroes

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nicole Leidholm
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Friday wrapped up a weeklong training for children in the Exceptional Family Member Program's Super Hero Camp at the Balfour Beatty Community Center.

The EFMP is a mandatory enrollment program based on carefully defined rules. An exceptional family member is a family member, regardless of age, who requires medical services for a chronic condition; receives ongoing services from any specialist outside a primary care physician or pediatrician; has mental health concerns or psychological needs; receives educational series provided on an Individualized Education Program; or a family member receiving series provider on a Individualized Family Service Plan.

Approximately 20 children attended the camp and participated in activities such as Spider-Man wall climbing, Jedi training, self-defense and K-9 and fire department demonstrations.

"This camp helps build self-esteem, character and confidence in the children," said Elaine Daly-Rath, 60th Force Support Squadron. "It helps get the children together and enjoy a camp experience with a smaller setting where they can socialize and make friends."

While the Airman and Family Readiness Center is supporting it, it was all Tech. Sgt. Michael Offenbacker's, 60th Maintenance Squadron metals technician, idea, Daly-Rath said. The officer and enlisted spouses clubs also helped by donating to the event as well.

Offenbacker organized the first Super Hero Camp last year.

Children and parents alike loved it, so the camp was brought back this year, Daly-Rath said.

"There are not a lot of opportunities for kids with special needs to be active on base," Offenbacker said. "I started this because my son loves superheroes and I wanted to let the children play and have fun together. They just want to be included and use their big imaginations."

For more information on EFMP events, contact the A&FRC at 424-2486.