Campgrounds and Caring: A Group of Pioneers Help to Beautify Camp Easter Seal

Trevor McGugan (l) and the hard working crew that helped to set up the campgrounds at Camp Easter Seal for the summer.
Trevor McGugan (l) and the hard working crew that helped to set up the campgrounds at Camp Easter Seal for the summer.

As another school year slowly comes to a close, the thoughts of many youngsters turn to summer camp. For some, that means a memorable stay at Camp Easter Seal, a stay that’s made even more unforgettable thanks to the efforts of members of the SaskTel Pioneers.

Camp Easter Seal takes place every year on the shores of Manitou Beach near Watrous. It offers lush greenery, rolling hills and calm waters. But it’s much more than that.

Supported by the Saskatchewan Abilities Council, Camp Easter Seal is a staple destination for hundreds of people with complex physical and mental disabilities who want to enjoy a barrier-free experience. It offers campers activities like swimming, wagon rides, crafts, adapted sports activities, talent shows and of course, campfires!

For many years now, a group of SaskTel Pioneers and family members have made it a tradition to go to the camp and help to get it ready for when the fun-seeking campers arrive.

Trevor McGugan, a retired SaskTel employee and Pioneer Volunteer, has been an important part of the event for more than ten years. He led the way again recently.

“I take on this role to make a make a positive difference for children and to have fun with SaskTel people,” said Trevor.

Most of the work this year involved raking and planting flowers, and in general, making an already beautiful camping spot even more so!

“There were nine of us altogether this year, and as always, we were a nice little team that achieved beyond our numbers,” said Trevor. “We raked about 30 bags and got the path to the SaskTel amphitheater looking the best it had been in 25 years.”

A large number of plants (up to 600), including flowers, herbs and garden snackables were also planted by the group.

The way Trevor sees it, the hard work is always worthwhile.

“It is important to me to make a positive difference where you can have the most impact,” he said. “With the Pioneers leading the charge, a little sweat equity can go a long way.”

Campers will begin arriving at Camp Easter Seal in June and sessions will run until August.