The inaugural "Pitch a Tent to Save a Pooch" camping trip is set for Sept. 2-5, as about 250 are expected—primarily from the lesbian community—for the holiday weekend get-together to aid the Windy City Animal Foundation (WCAF).
The event is being held at a full-range campsite southwest of Aurora, complete with showers, toilets, electricity, running water and free Wi-Fi. Firewood and a food market are nearby, and the campsite allows alcohol, dogs and kids.
"This idea [for this camping trip] came from a variety of places, and each time it was discussed with friends in different circles, the idea was inspired and grew more and more," said event leader Samantha Hamilton. "Carrie Henry and Angel Santoro helped find the perfect place for our community to camp, and Alisha Valente wanted to be the voice for the animals.
"The idea of bringing together the women's community for a camping trip grew into an extravagant weekend that will, hopefully, provide fun events for all types of women. There will be events for those who enjoy team sports, fishing, cooking, poker, board games, tarot cards and knitting—and also [events] for women with children."
Entertainment will include karaoke by Sue Heggeland on Saturday night, Sept. 3, and Katie Kirby will DJ Sunday night, Sept. 4.
"Everyone will be able to find things to do, make new friends in a safe, beautiful nature backdrop, all while helping raise funds for the animals, and also benefiting LCCP and [the website] The L Stop," Hamilton said. "The idea overall is to maintain a calendar of ongoing women's events which will enrich our community as a whole."
Hamilton said there are 125 tent spaces available.
"This is mostly a women's event, with children and dogs also invited," Hamilton said. "All ages are welcome and encouraged to join us."
The campground is sectioned, so there will be an area for families to camp in a selected area and then be able to meet other moms and kids, Hamilton said: "So far, we have reservations for many sports members [from the] Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association (CMSA), along with WCAF volunteers and dog adopters, doctors, educators, social workers—women with all sorts of careers and lifestyles.
"We hope to bring people together from the women's community for a great cause and a lot of fun, outdoor activities we don't normally have the opportunity to participate in while in the city. We hope to provide a safe, secure environment for campers to enjoy themselves; that's one of the reasons why each participant must contact us directly for the campsite location. Kathy Caldwell and Jan Schmidt have volunteered to oversee security. We really want there to be something for everyone to enjoy, from singles events, to dog events, to kids crafts and activities. We are hoping to enrich and extend our women's community."
Hamilton, 39, who lives on Chicago's Northwest Side, said attendees will receive a wristband at check-in to indicate their relationship status: single and looking; in a relationship; and those who would rather not be identified either way.
"I think it is very important to donate to a worthy charity when our community comes together like this," Hamilton said. "Windy City Animal Foundation works 365 days a year to help cats and dogs, and we are working hard to continue our philanthropic efforts, giving funds to help them expand their work. All proceeds after expenses will be donated to WCAF in the form of a check on Monday evening, Sept. 5.
"There will be opportunities to mingle with volunteers and board members [from WCAF] throughout the weekend, so camp participants may learn more about how to help with fostering, adopting, or volunteering themselves after the camping trip is over. We also have welcomed other charitable organizations which will be managing specific events and working in booths during the weekend."
The weekend activities include a flag-football tournament and the Tranny Dog Dress-up event. There also will be poker tournaments, fishing contests and more.
Each person must bring his or her own tent, supplies, beverages and food. "We encourage new campers to ask experienced ones for additional advise or to search online to find a good packing checklist," Hamilton said.
First-aid kits and individuals with first-aid knowledge for humans and dogs will be on site to assist in health emergencies.
What about men?
"Men are welcome [to attend], but [they] must bring a furry friend … and not a bear," Hamilton said, laughing.
For more information, contact Hamilton a: sam.hamilton.photography@gmail.com or by phone at 708-436-0031.
More information is also available at i63.photobucket.com/albums/h133/getsamart/WindyCityTimes_Camping.jpg.
