First Annual Oyster Roast to Benefit Wounded Veterans, Gold Star Families and Those with Differing Abilities

19 August 2019
Six roasted oysters on ice, with lemons and oyster knife

YMCA at JT’s Camp Grom to Host First Annual Oyster Roast to Benefit Wounded Veterans, Gold Star Families and Those with Differing Abilities

 

August 14, 2019, Virginia Beach, VirginiaThe YMCA invites the community to join them for fun and fellowship on Saturday, September 14 from 3-6pm at YMCA at JT’s Camp Grom for the camp’s First Annual Oyster Roast to help provide adaptive camp experiences to people of all abilities. Hosted by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads and the Virginia Gentlemen Foundation, proceeds from ticket purchases for the Oyster Roast will support the Y’s annual giving campaign, which helps provide adaptive adventure for children and adults with differing abilities, wounded veterans and Gold Star families. Tickets include all-you-can-eat raw and steamed oysters, clams, an extensive buffet and beverages. Enjoy live music and entertainment for children, as well as a silent auction.

Opened in the summer of 2018 after years of planning, fundraising and collaboration between the Virginia Gentleman and the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, YMCA at JT's Camp Grom is an adventure-style day camp developed especially for wounded veterans and their families, the families of fallen war heroes and children and adults with differing abilities. It is a special place where everyone in the family can spend time and participate, together. Unlike traditional camps, Camp Grom delivers a unique, integrated and adaptive day of activities surrounded by family and friends, including adaptive sports, fishing, wakeboarding, and even harnessed tower climbing. Adventure activities have often been frustratingly out of reach for adults and children living with differing abilities. YMCA at JT's Camp Grom allows these individuals to take part in personal development activities, educational programs, and entertainment and social gatherings, sending participants home with a new sense of confidence—empowering them and improving their quality of life

“Too many times those with differing abilities are unable to participate in the experiences that places like a beach, amusement park, etc. can provide. This camp is so important because it creates a place where all can come together and participate in activities that may have previously been out of reach for some,” says Chris Hoagland, Volunteer Board Chair at YMCA at JT’s Camp Grom. Hoagland encourages the public to support the Y’s efforts in providing this camp experience to those in need by attending the Oyster Roast on September 14, of which proceeds for ticket sales will directly benefit camp participants.