Ashe Mountain Times

Now in its sixth year of helping and providing comfort to children with life threatening illnesses, Camp New Hope continues to fight a lagging economy with continued support from the community.

Founded in 2006, the nonprofit located along a scenic stretch of the New River is a free camp for children who have serious medical illnesses and their families.

Upon selection, each child can bring up to 10 family members for a respite from the turmoil brought on by illness to enjoy fun and relaxing family-oriented activities.

“The camp supplies everything, there is no need to bring any food. All they need is just their toothbrushes,” said Camp Director Randy Brown.

Previously outfitted as a five-bedroom hunting lodge constructed in the 1950s, the camp was transformed into a get-a-way for sick children and their families, when land developers Will and Mark Adkins founded the benevolent organization.

Since 2008 when the camp began accepting donations, a steady flow of support from churches, businesses, and generous individuals has helped Camp New Hope tread water during tougher economic times.

“The camp is a huge success not only because of the children and families that it serves, but because of the volunteers who make the camp possible,” said Brown.

Owner Will Adkins, of Lake Norman, said the camp might not have survived the recession if not for the help of the public.

“Once Randy (Brown) was able to establish the trust of the people in Ashe County that we were doing a good thing and that all the money was going to kids, (the donations) have stayed pretty steady,” said Adkins. “The churches were the reason we were able to stay open.”

Originally from West Virginia, longtime real estate agents Will and Mark Adkins began to look for ways to give something back to their communities upon the establishment of their careers.

In addition to the camp, they also run a pet center in Lincoln County.

“When times were good we were trying our best to give back,” said Adkins. “It's been pretty tough in the real estate business. If it wasn't for people helping us out, we may not have been able to keep them (the camp and animal shelter) open.”

After falling in love with the area following a real estate venture in the early 2000s, the brothers decided West Jefferson would offer a chance to help sick children and help restore an old camp site.

Gaining attention nationwide, Camp New Hope has served families of various backgrounds and conditions.

“Some (of the children) have conditions most of us have never heard of, but all have these beautiful eyes that when you look into them all you really see is a child who is trapped in a small, frail body,” said Brown. “It just melts your heart.”

With the holiday season approaching, Brown and volunteers are reminded of the generosity from the community and are once again extending an invitation to be a part Camp New Hope.

“We are like so many other nonprofit organizations and our future depends on the generosity of our supporters,” said Brown. “We have had a few times this year that we did not know how long we would be able to continue the unique ministry.”

On Saturday, Nov. 19, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Ashe County will have a chance to experience the ministry firsthand with a day of Christmas festivities including the chance for local children to have their pictures taken with Santa Claus along with free refreshments.

In addition to the upcoming celebration, tours and youth groups' outings of the camp are welcomed.