An Enduring Partnership with The Odd Fellows and Rebekahs of Ontario

The Odd Fellows and Rebekahs of Ontario are one of Campfire Circle’s (formerly Camp Ooch & Camp Trillium) closest community partners, with a long and vibrant history of supporting Camp Trillium.  We’re grateful for their ongoing support and the incredible impact they’ve had on thousands of kids and families affected by childhood cancer.  This is a reflection from Carson Shulist, Secretary of the Rebekah Assembly of Ontario.

For over 30 years, the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs of Ontario have been directly involved with Camp Trillium Rainbow Lake and OuR Island, now known as Campfire Circle. For the Rebekahs, these camps have been included as one of our major charities, which include Arthritis Society, Kensington Eye, IOOF Seniors Home Barrie and Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Camp Trillium has been an integral part of both the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs of Ontario.

Their first camp, held just outside of London, Ontario, was made possible through funds provided by the Odd Fellows.  Our involvement has continued over the years in varying degrees.  Frequently the Grand Master of Grand Lodge and the President of the Rebekah Assembly have had Camp Trillium and/or the Camp Trillium Capital Fund as their main fund raising project.  When this happens the chosen charity has always been well supported by our members.

Over the years, Lodges have donated regularly to various projects at the camps such as: upgrades and refurbishment of the dining hall, furnish the activity hall and build the playground at Rainbow Lake, build the boardwalk and do major renovations to the body shop at OuR Island, as well as paying off the $1,000,000 mortgage in record time (8 years) to purchase said island to ensure a continued presence in that area for Camp Trillium.  Our members have often travelled long distances just to attend Open Houses set up at both locations. One Odd Fellow lodge even met the need expressed by the Camp and purchased a very expensive tractor for them.  We also have members whose families have had children with cancer who have availed themselves with the camping opportunities at OuR Island or Rainbow Lake.

Camp Trillium has always been a very important part of our Order.

Carson Shulist
Secretary
Rebekah Assembly of Ontario