Cedar Bluff Reservoir, KS – Western Cooperative Electric, a committed partner in community development, is thrilled to award a Sharing Success grant to Project Dream, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing transformative summer camps for children of substance-addicted families. Western Cooperative Electric has generously awarded a $5,000 community grant to support completing a much-needed playground expansion at the Dream Camp facility.

Since its inception in 1988, Dream, Inc. has been on a mission to provide healing and hope to children aged 7-11 who have family members struggling with substance use disorders. It is estimated that in Kansas alone, 140,800 children live in environments where a parent or caregiver faces addiction-related challenges. These children are at a higher risk of developing substance abuse issues themselves, making Dream Camps a crucial method of intervention.

The Dream Camps program, founded by Sheryl Butler and Glenda Kramer, both veterans in the substance abuse field with a combined 87 years of experience, offers these children a lifeline. Through education about addiction, emotional support, and the cultivation of self-worth, Dream Camps empower participants to break the cycle of addiction within their families.

In 1994, Dream, Inc. took a remarkable step by "rescuing" an abandoned camp facility on the north shore of Cedar Bluff Reservoir. This facility, abandoned for approximately three decades and scheduled for demolition, found a new purpose through Dream, Inc.'s dedication. The journey of transformation began after securing an ongoing lease for as long as Dream, Inc. exists on the property of the State of Kansas.

Over the years, Dream, Inc. has invested in renovating the main building, which serves as the hub for education and houses a large kitchen. The dormitory area for girls in the walk-out basement was also revamped. To further enhance the camp experience, Dream, Inc. constructed a separate bunkhouse for boys and built a picnic shelter complete with an attached basketball court.

This summer marks the 34th year of Dream Camps, and the impact on the children has been nothing short of remarkable. Evaluation results show significant progress in the children's understanding of addiction and improved coping mechanisms. One referring therapist even described the camps as providing "a year of therapy in one week."

Western Cooperative Electric is delighted to join hands with Dream, Inc. to complete the dream of a playground expansion at the campgrounds. Dream, Inc. can start work on the project thanks to the $5,000 grant from Western Cooperative Electric. A significant portion of the funds, $3,200, is allocated for necessary dirt work due to the challenging terrain. An additional $800 will cover the cost of the required sand, and $1,000 will allow for the addition of more swings to accommodate more children simultaneously.

The check presentation ceremony took place on September 14 at the Dream Camps facility at the camp. "This collaboration not only reflects Western Cooperative Electric's commitment to community well-being but also embodies the spirit of giving and support that makes a profound difference in the lives of children and families." Said Western Cooperative Assistant General  Manager Nolan Numrich. "Western Cooperative Electric is proud to be part of Dream, Inc.'s journey to create lasting positive change in the lives of these children."

For more information about Western Cooperative Electric and its community initiatives, please visit www.westermcoop.com. To learn more about Dream, Inc. and how you can contribute, visit www.dreamhays.com.