Organizers of the free summer camp for HIV-positive children named it Camp Laurel after the sprig of leaves associated with the mythological Greek god Apollo, the healing properties at the temple in Delphi, and -- best known to athletes -- Olympic victory. While the games are not quite as stressful as the average camp, Camp Laurel is all about the fun and glee of indoor and outdoor challenges and the loving development of self-esteem in a safe, judgment-free environment, says Stephanie Shapiro, Camp Laurel's director of volunteers. The victory is in enabling children impacted by HIV/AIDS -- those who are living with the disease and their families -- to experience some of the wonders of childhood they might otherwise miss.

With two camp weeks coming up in July and August, Shapiro is looking for volunteers. The requirements are simple, but important. Volunteers must have the desire and the ability to work with children in the outdoors; have no hesitation about working with children or adults who are living with HIV/AIDS; accept supervision and guidance from leaders accredited by the American Camp Association; be willing to be a positive role model and display good character and good judgment; and be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate. Previous work with children is a plus, but not a requirement.

The first camp week is from July 3-9 for children ages 6-12 and their family members. The second camp, called Teen Adventure, is for HIV-positive teens ages 13 to 16, running from August 7-13. Camp Laurel rents camp space in the greater Los Angeles area, with the next two being in Palmdale and Big Bear.

Shapiro says she is looking for at least 36 volunteers for the first camp and 24 volunteers for the teen adventure. HIV-positive volunteers are welcome, but she notes that camp life, while "not that intense," does require "high energy" for walking and running up hills. Additionally, they are always in need of medical staff, such as those with nursing degrees or nurse practitioners.

The camp started in 1992 when President and Executive Director Margot Andrew realized that there were very few services for children with HIV/AIDS. "She wanted to provide them with a place to get away from their illness and just be kids," Shapiro told IN. "There is also a need for their siblings, who are around the disease all the time, to get support. HIV-positive children are the center of the household and their siblings are often overlooked -- this is an opportunity for them to go to camp, too. And, since the counselors don't know which children are positive and which are negative, everyone is treated the same."

They also try to "make things happen" for children with special needs.

"The kids remember their camp experience for years and years," says Shapiro. "It's a great opportunity for volunteer counselors to really touch their lives."

For more information, contact Stephanie Shapiro at (323) 653-5005 or download an application at www.camplaurel.org.

-- Karen Ocamb