[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 138 (Friday, August 15, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E768-E769]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING ENCHANTED HILLS CAMP FOR THE BLIND

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, August 15, 2025

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor 
Enchanted Hills Camp for the Blind as it celebrates 75 years of service 
to our community. For generations, this organization has provided 
blind, low vision, and deafblind individuals with opportunities to 
learn, grow, and thrive in a supportive environment designed 
specifically for their needs.

[[Page E769]]

  Founded in 1950 by Rose Resnick, who was blind herself, and Nina 
Brandt, Enchanted Hills Camp was established to fill a critical gap. At 
that time, no recreational facility on the West Coast offered blind 
children a place to explore, build confidence, and experience the joys 
of summer camp. Located on 311 acres of Mt. Veeder, the camp became the 
first of its kind in our region, with a central focus on celebrating 
individuals' abilities rather than their limitations.
  For 75 years, Enchanted Hills has welcomed children, teens, adults, 
seniors, and families from across California and beyond. It operates 
year-round, hosting its flagship Changing Vision, Changing Life 
blindness skills immersion training alongside traditional summer 
programs. Additional offerings include music academies, woodworking and 
chemistry camps, horse camps, and family sessions, all designed for 
blind and visually impaired individuals. The camp also serves deafblind 
individuals and those with multiple disabilities, ensuring inclusive 
programming for all.
  What makes Enchanted Hills remarkable is its emphasis on fostering 
confidence and independence. Campers participate in activities such as 
swimming, archery, drama, horseback riding, and adaptive sports, guided 
by staff and counselors who are blind or have low vision themselves. 
These role models provide mentorship and encouragement, helping campers 
develop self-advocacy and independence.
  Enchanted Hills Camp's impact extends beyond its campers. The 
facility regularly hosts corporate retreats, nonprofit gatherings, and 
community organizations. It also serves as a fire-resilience hub 
supporting Napa Valley businesses and residents. The camp maintains 
active partnerships with the Napa Chamber of Commerce, Napa Rotary 
Club, and American Camp Association.
  Mr. Speaker, Enchanted Hills Camp for the Blind has spent 75 years 
opening doors, building confidence, and changing lives. Its continued 
service to the blind and visually impaired community, as well as its 
support for our broader Napa region, makes it a cherished institution. 
It is fitting and proper that we honor them today for their 
extraordinary contributions to our district.

                          ____________________