Camp Shining Stars Uses Crowdfunding to Cover Tuition
Camp Shining Stars, a summer weight loss camp, launched a fund-raising campaign for overweight teens Maya Johnson and Savannah Hunter.

DURHAM, NC, May 18, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Taking a new approach to paying for a summer of weight loss, donations to cover camp tuition are being raised through the crowdfunding site IndieGogo.

Johnson, a Camp Shining Stars alumnus who wants another summer at camp, was born without her left arm. She's appeared on The Rachael Ray Show, worked out with the Harlem Globetrotters, and spent last summer at camp where she learned drama from volunteer instructor, actress and frequent Oprah guest Stacey Halprin. Johnson loved her summer at Camp Shining Stars and wants to return with a friend who is also struggling with their weight.

Hunter, an overweight seventh grader, is an avid volunteer and teaches art to autistic children. She wants to attend Camp Shining Stars and get a jump start on her weight loss journey, but her family can't afford to send her. When Camp Shining Stars received a letter from Hunter's parents, they knew she deserved to spend her summer with other teens making better food and activity choices. One of Hunter's brothers has heart complications and his surgeries have capped insurance out at over $5 million—twice. Hunter's brother endured 9 heart surgeries, 2 strokes and is on his third pacemaker.

"There are lots of ways to pay for weight loss camp. Scholarships, HSAs, there are even loans available," said Camp Director Ira Green. Camp kicks off next month and the tight time frame prompted Green to launch the crowdsourced tuition model on Indiegogo. The site allows anyone from anywhere in the world to donate as little or as much as they desire toward causes that they're passionate about. Green hopes spreading the word through IndieGogo, Facebook, Twitter, family and friends will raise enough funds to send Hunter, Johnson and another overweight teen to camp. More about their stories and a link to donate toward tuition are available here http://www.indiegogo.com/CAMPSHININGSTARS.

Press Release Contact Information:

Tara Lynne Groth
Camp Shining Stars
Public Relations
3604 Witherspoon Blvd, Ste 111
Durham, North Carolina
United States 27707
Voice: 9199497415
Website: Visit Our Website