The Valerie Fund Blog

Camp Happy Times Awarded for True Spirit

Written by The Valerie Fund | 1/17/22 12:00 PM

Camp Happy Times has long been a place where the kids of The Valerie Fund can come together and enjoy a week of camp with other kids who know what it's like to battle cancer. The staff of Camp Happy Times play an integral role in keeping CHT a place of positivity and smiles so we're elated to announce that one of our dedicated camp staff has won an award!

Back in November, the Children's Oncology Camping Association-International (COCA-I) awarded Camp Happy Times' very own Beth Ruttler the Region 2 Camp Spirit Award for her dedication and passion for CHT and other camps within the region. Due to her efforts, Northwestern Mutual is proud to donate $1,500 to Camp Happy Times in her honor! 

The Region 2 Director, Gretchen Loose, wrote the following which was read at the COCA-I Awards Banquet:

The Region 2 nominee is going to be a bit shocked that they are receiving this award, which speaks volumes about their selfless and benevolent nature.

Our nominee has been involved with their camp officially for over 10 years but has always been a part of the camp family because of their “family”. During their camp career, they have been instrumental in facilitating professional development, staff interviews and program development. Their position at camp has helped create a perennial favorite camp activity and their ability to be an active and supportive listener to all is a reason that staff and campers alike enjoy being around our nominee.

A direct quote from their nomination form says “They are a wonderful cheerleader and supporter of all who come to camp. Their positivity and support of campers is unparalleled, and their warm and “Nanny” demeanor is welcoming and appreciated.”

Let's all give three cheers - or more - to the amazing and dedicated Beth Ruttler for her success in making so many summers for our kids memorable and filled with laughs!

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