Every summer, the Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation offers burn victims a chance to unite with other children and be surrounded by an encouraging environment.

Camp Oo-U-La welcomes children between the ages of 7 and 17 who have suffered serious burns. For one week — free of charge — children from all over the state of Georgia come together for camp at Fort Yargo State Park, where they can interact with other children, participate in arts and crafts, learn to trust the high ropes course and build confidence by being themselves.

The leaders are made up of volunteers including social workers, firefighters, medical personnel, students form the University of Georgia and previous campers who are now leaders. This year, 95 campers and 120 volunteers fill the camp cabins.

“We like to think of it as fun with a purpose,” said Dana Dillard, program director for the Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation, said of the camp.

As the children participated in the Wacky Olympics for Wednesday’s afternoon activity, Dillard continued to explain the history of the program. In 1982, a group of firefighters from DeKalb County had a vision to help burn victims and thus started the organization. The first camp was held in 1993.

Camp-Oo-U-La provides a safe haven and a happy environment for everyone, campers and volunteers alike.