Annual WV International Sport Jamboree lets those with mobility, visual impairments take part in sports camp

CAIRO, W.Va. (WTAP) – The WV International Sports Jamboree is an annual sports camp for individuals who are mobility and visually impaired.

It was started about 45 years ago, according to Kathy Hess, Chairman for the Jamboree.

The Jamboree is the third weekend of every July at North Bend State Park, Cairo West Virginia.  This year the dates are July 19 – 21, 2024.

Hess explained a little about the history of the Jamboree.

“This annual event was a community action vision that was developed from a group of Telephone Pioneers,  who approximately forty five years ago, was given a charge from the Telephone Company to aid their communities in some way.  These Pioneers, who volunteered their time and efforts initially developed the sporting events and worked with North Bend State Park to establish the whole weekend of events.  Over the years, the games have changed but the meaning behind the event hasn’t.  The participants can participate in the sporting events while developing friendships and lifelong memories.  This is a small event but with a huge impact.”

Hess said they support local businesses by buying supplies for the event. She also mentioned, last year they held a free concert to the public. She said they will be doing the same this year! The free, public concert will be on Friday, July 19, 2024., featuring the Midnight Outlaws.

Hess said they see participants from all over, including other states and even Canada. She said it means a lot to be able to bring this event to the community.

“We want to show off our beautiful state and share the hospitality of the Division of Tourism at North Bend State Park.” She continued saying that they love to see the smiling faces of those participating, as well as the memories and friendships they’re making.

“The participants and their caregivers have become parts of our lives as well.  We feel blessed every year we can offer the jamboree.”

If you are interested in participating in the event, and meet the criteria of being visually or mobility impaired, you can contact any of the committee members.

Hess said there is an application that needs completed and signed off by a physician prior to the jamboree.  The deadline for the application is June 15, 2024 for this year’s jamboree.

• Contact:  Kathy Hess // (304)838-2868  // kke8837@yahoo.com
• Sherry Richardson // (304)389-5679 // thebumberman@yahoo.com
• Diana Buzzard // (304)965-1779 // dizbuz@frontier.com

There are no fees to the participant and one parent or guardian for the whole weekend event.  Hess said they have sponsors who donate funds to cover the costs.  She continued saying that they provide lodging, food and entertainment for the whole weekend.

Hess also wanted to highlight their need for volunteers.

“We are always searching for volunteers to help with the jamboree.  This could be someone to assist with the games, help a participant with getting their meals to help clean up and tear down, make goodies for the hospitality room, and even assist with registration.  We need people to make it successful each year.  This is done through wonderful volunteers.” She continued saying, “We are also looking for sponsors to help cover the cost of the jamboree.”

If you are interested in volunteering or sponsoring the jamboree, please contact:  Kathy Hess, Chairman at (304)838-2868.

Below are some photos from past Jamborees.

Copyright 2024 WTAP. All rights reserved.