The Hartselle Shining Stars held their first annual summer camp. Campers took various trips around the community and took part in activities throughout the week. 

Staci Wells oversees the Shining Stars program, and said she wanted to start the camp as a way to give special needs individuals something to do this summer. “I know some of these individuals don’t really get to go out and do a lot of things, and I just wanted to give them something to get out and spend time together and have a good time,” Wells said. 

Enquirer photo/Lauren Jackson
Chad Quattlebaum fishes at Sparkman pond during summer camp.

Campers started out the camp making cards and flowers and visiting the Summerford Nursing Home. They also spent some time at the Morgan County Animal Shelter, fishing at Sparkman Pond, visiting a horse stable and swimming. 

Don Russell’s son takes part in the Shining Stars program. He said he was excited to have such a great program in Hartselle. “It’s very important because the kids enjoy it. They have fun, it’s good for them, they learn from each other and make friends,” Russell said. 

Special to the Enquirer
Campers visited with the Morgan County Animal Shelter in Hartselle.

The camp welcomed 11 campers, just one shy of max capacity. Wells said that despite being the first year for the camp, that it was successful. “They have had a good time, we have a good group,” she said. 

According to Wells the camp would not be possible without the support of the community. Fairview Church provided transportation for the campers two days and the parents and community members helped volunteer during the camp. 

Russell said the Shining Stars program in Hartselle is something he is proud to have in Hartselle and hopes to see expand to other areas. “Deactur and Hartselle has a program and leaders that are second to none, we have a program here that is second to none. Staci does an outstanding job,” Russell said.