At first it might seem that a camp for deaf and hearing-impaired children and youth would be quieter than other summer camps at Shocco Springs Baptist Conference Center.
But listen more closely, and you will hear the laughter, chattering and squealing of the 104 participants of the annual Camp Shocco for the Deaf. Look closely, and you will see their fingers and hands in the constant, furious flight of signing to one another.
The camp, held June 30 to July 6, was sponsored by the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions. Some participants came from Alabama’s School for the Deaf in Talladega. The children ranged in age from 9 to 12 and the youth were 13 and older.
Since its beginning in 1991, the camp’s purpose has been to place those with special needs in an environment that views those needs as normal. They are also led by deaf counselors and pastors hoping to communicate a spiritual message in a more relaxed environment.
According to the camp’s program director Ricky Milford, who is also hearing impaired, many of the participants come from churches where an active ministry for the deaf or hearing impaired is not available. This camp exposes them to teachings aimed at Christians who also happen to be deaf.
During a week of “Fun in the Son,” the campers had the opportunity to get involved in recreational activities as well as Bible studies, crafts, music, dramatic presentations and worship.
Milford said the goal is to get more people involved every year, and attendance was up from last year. His goal for next year is to have two separate camps, one for children and another for youth, with about 100 participants each.
According to the response from the campers, Milford just might get his wish. He laughed and said that everyone enjoys the camp so much that they want to stay an extra week instead of going home.
Milford proudly added that by the close of the camp at least five children and seven youth had made professions of faith.
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