Melissa’s Sunshine Camp: Celebrating 25 years of passion and dedication

Passion and dedication were among the many terms often repeated in describing Mary Shewchuk, the founder of Melissa’s Sunshine Camp, as well as all those who have played such an important role in the organization, and in the lives of its exceptional members, throughout its impressive 25 year history. Melissa’s Sunshine Camp was toasted on April 26 during a fittingly exuberant celebration at the Alfred Langevin Hall in Huntingdon. “We have come a long way since four little eight-year-olds arrived on our farm,” said Mary Shewchuk, in a speech that thanked all the many volunteers and institutions that have come along on the journey as it has evolved over the years. Established in 1993, Melissa’s Sunshine Camp is a non-profit organization that serves individuals of all ages with intellectual or physical disabilities in the Haut-Saint-Laurent. The Camp now offers year-round activities to over 40 members, including a day service that runs five days a week at HAECC in Huntingdon as well as Sunshine Nights, where members have some fun together while singing and dancing. The goal for the Camp is to develop a respite program designed for its members and their families. “We are celebrating something very impressive today,” said Huntingdon MNA and Minister for Small and Medium Enterprises, Regulatory Streamlining and Regional Economic Development, Mr. Stéphane Billette, before playing a short clip of himself recognizing the Camp and its important work at the National Assembly earlier in the week. Mr. Billette also presented a congratulatory letter signed by Quebec Premier, Mr. Philippe Couillard, as well as a cheque for $1,000 for the organization. “I am certain we will be here in five years celebrating the 30th anniversary,” he added. During the celebration, a representative for Salaberry-Suroît MP, Ms. Anne Minh-Thu Quach, presented the Camp with a special gift in recognition of “25 years full of passion.” In a closing address, the new Coordinator for the Camp, Ms. Marlene Harvey, praised her amazing and committed team before addressing the role of Ms. Shewchuk: “her vision, devotion and positive team spirit created Melissa’s Sunshine Camp from the bottom up. It has touched so many lives.” The evening also featured a buffet provided by a number of local organizations as well as a silent auction of donated local products, pieces of artwork and gifts.