Sponsors Needed, Spots Still Open for Girls Camp

In a few weeks, dozens of local girls will head to the Shriners Auditorium at the University of South Florida for a

So far, about 33 girls have signed up. But camp organizers are looking for monetary sponsorships, donations of art supplies and for more girls to sign up.

"This is a unique opportunity, and it's a once in a lifetime program," said Kellie Lightbourn, whose organization, Teen Edge, is sponsoring the camp.

Camp runs from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. on July 16-20, and is designed for girls 8-15. The cost is $199 per girl.

Girls from Shriners, a facility that treats patients with orthopedic conditions from birth to age 18, will also attend camp, Lightbourn said, and participate in projects such as writing letters to soldiers.

Lightbourn, a Carrollwood resident who is host of ABC Action News' "Consumer Update" and was crowned 2012 Mrs. Galaxy International, said she wants girls in Tampa Bay to take advantage of the camp's long-term benefits.

"Basically, we're creating a safe and productive environment for the girls to learn about themselves," she said. "Summer is a great time to do that because they're not distracted by school and friends. They can focus on discovering who they are so they can start the next year confident."

For more information, or to sponsor a girl, call 813-309-3300 or go to www.camp4girls.com. 

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