FrequentlyAsked Questions ~

 

What does the acronym "JOEY" mean?

JOEY refers to Joint Outdoor-Ecumenical Youth programs. JOEY is the term used by the Camp*aign to clearly differentiate between youth programs that include a Faith aspect for the benefit of children, and those that tend to impose religious beliefs upon children, often through guilt and fear.

How does the Camp*aign define the word "Ecumenical"?

The word Ecumenical comes from the Greek word meaning "household", and refers to the heart-felt desire of some religious groups to cooperate with one another, as if they were one household. Thus, Ecumenical religious groups tend to be tolerant of differences, inclusive of others and above all, non-extremist. In a sense, Ecumenical is the opposite of extremist, The Camp*aign believes that extremism of any kind is, at best, counterproductive and with respect to children, is more likely than not to be damaging.

How many JOEY programs are there?

There are three distinct program ministries of the Camp*aign for American Kids: 1) Education and Outreach, 2) Information and Referral, and 3) Camp*ership Assistancel

Program/Education and Outreach: The most inportant program ministry of the the Camp*aign is Education and Outreach. This is in keeping with our goal to double the number of children in JOEY programs throughout the U.S. within ten years. The primary reason that parents fail to provide their children with the benefits of a Joey program is lack of awareness. The Camp*aign works around the clock to boost public awareness about the critical link between those who attend Joey programs and children who are stable, balanced and well-adjusted.

Program/Information and Referral: The Camp*aign maintains an up-to-date information data base on matters pertaining to the ongoing Crises of American Youth. Relevant findings from the scientific and Faith communities are gathered, interpreted and distributed on a regular basis. The Camp*aign is often called upon to provide information to the public about the precise nature of the challenges facing today's youngsters...as well as the key factors contributing to the success of the JOEY-based solution.

Program/Camp*ership Assistance 1/3: When an individual contacts Camp*aign headquarters for assistance in locating a Joey program, the Camp*aign refers to its list of affiliates and selects three JOEYs within a three-hour drive of the home. HQ then contacts each JOEY to ascertain compatability (vacancy, program components, costs, age limits, flexibility, financial aid).

Program/Camp*ership Assistance 2/3: Camp*aign HQ advocates on behalf of family members with JOEY staff. HQ provides required information about the family and child(ren), gathers information ad hoc, and discerns the degree of 'fit' based on key factors, including length of program and potential to accomodate all children of one family simultaneously. HQ then provides the family with details and options needed for the child to pick "my very own JOEY."

Program/Camp*ership Assistance 3/3: Camp*aign HQ discusses the potential for financial aid with JOEY staff. The availability of aid varies from year to year. A typical financial assistance package includes direct aid from a JOEY's sponsering communion, as well as from the JOEY itself. The Camp*aign will contribute to the aid package in order to reduce the burden on the JOEY and its communion and to make funds available for other children. HQ will also ask parents to contribute a portion, if possible, for the sake of ownership. Where no financial aid is available, the Camp*aign may assume the entire responsiblility.

Where are JOEYs located throughout the U.S.?

Roughly 2,400 outdoor youth camps in the U.S. have met the stringent requirments necessary to achieve American Camp Association (ACA) accredidation. Of these, the Camp*aign elected initially to affiliate with approximately 100 or, two per state. The sole reason for this concerns issues of manageablity and ecumenical diversity. In the future, we hope to have the capacity to be of service to all outdoor youth programs that are both ecumenical and ACA accredited.

NOTE: we are currently in process of listing specific information about JOEY affiliates here at the Camp*aign website. This will enable loved ones to contact JOEYs directly. However, individuals are still encouraged to use the free services of the Camp*aign for information on nearest JOEY locations, program offerings, special needs and so forth. It is not necessary that parents go through the Camp*aign; It is very important, however, that every parent give their child the life-enhancing benefits of a JOEY!

Is my gift tax deductible?

The Camp*aign fro American Kids is recognized by the IRS as a 501c3 non-profit organization; all contributions are tax-deductible.

Can I give through my will, or by using a lifetime-income vehicle, such as a Charitable Gift Annuity?

The Camp*aign is qualified to receive gifts of any kind, including bequest and life-income gifts, such as the charitable gift annuity. We welcome foundation support as well as corporate sponsorship. For more information please contact the Camp*aign headquarters at (804) 266-7130 or, we can be reached by email at:HQ@ForAmericanKids.org. The work of the Camp*aign depends entirely on the support of concerned donors.

You can help by making a contribution today.

As you do, please consider that ultimately, no work of charity is more important than

prohibiting a lifetime of tragedy from ravaging the heart of a little one.

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