Camp Tiger Benefit Auction a Huge Success
Proceeds benefit free summer camp experience for children with mental and physical disabilities
First year medical students hosted the Camp Tiger Auction & Benefit at Club XLIV earlier
this year in Champions Square to raise money for the 38th annual Camp Tiger, a free
weeklong summer camp for children with mental and medical disabilities. The nearly
300 attendants, with many more virtual bidders, raised more than $100,000 for the
special needs camp.
Founded in 1985 by LSU Health New Orleans staff and first-year medical students, Camp Tiger provides a traditional camp experience for children with special needs in the Greater New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas, who otherwise might not be able to enjoy this experience.
“LSU Health New Orleans’ medical students look forward to the opportunity to work
with these exceptional children and serve the community,” says LSU Health New Orleans
Chancellor, Dr. Steve Nelson. “In addition to continuing the LSU Health New Orleans
tradition of community outreach, Camp Tiger gives our first year students an opportunity
to begin to understand and work with some medical conditions they may encounter during
their professional careers.”
During Camp Tiger, each camper is accompanied by at least two medical students and is given the opportunity to participate in a traditional summer camp experience. Campers will visit several uniquely New Orleans locations, including the Audubon Zoo and Aquarium, Saints practice facility, City Park Carousel Gardens and Global Wildlife Center, to name a few.
“Since its inception, Camp Tiger has benefited more than 3,000 children, giving them
a chance to socialize with one another in a supportive and nurturing environment,”
says Camp Director Michael Barkemeyer. “Campers enjoy a week all about them with the
freedom to play, socialize and express themselves, provided entirely free of charge
due to the fundraising efforts of our annual auction and benefit.”
The Camp Tiger Auction & Benefit included live music from one of the Gulf South’s
premier entertainers, Dat Band, as well as an open bar and food from multiple local
restaurants, including Ruffino’s and Carter Plantation. Local artist Meredith Graf
(pictured left), painted three pieces of art live which were then sold as part of
the live auction. The silent and live auctions included a variety of items like Taylor
Swift VIP concert tickets, Pelican’s court side tickets, memberships to local gyms,
family-friendly activities, artwork, jewelry and more.
Krista Malley served as Auction Coordinator.
"Camp Tiger has been a beacon of light for almost 40 years, providing children with a unique opportunity to forge connections in a nurturing atmosphere. The auction plays a critical role. The donors to the auction and those who come to generously bid make this special camp possible," Malley said.
