From the COLlive inbox: A Shliach writes how an Chabad overnight summer camp has impacted his son, a first-time camper.

Dear Rabbis Shemtov and Futerfas and the entire Camp Gan Israel Parksville staff,

This thank you is late in coming but fresh in concept.

Thank you very much for accepting our son to camp this past summer and for making the necessary accommodations.

It was his first time in a mainstream overnight camp and he had a wonderful experience. His counselors, learning teacher, personal aide and general camp staff allowed him to have a regular camp experience, and that is what made it so wonderful.

Perhaps the staff were not in the position to see it, but as his parents we speak of the 'before' and 'after' of this summer.

He came back from camp and is more responsible and cooperative in all aspects of life. He takes the initiative in taking steps forward and assuming new elements in life. His interaction with his peers is improved as a direct result of being with a bunch of kids that just treated him and expected of him as another camper.

Last week we had his annual review at his school, where we sit with his teachers and therapists and review the past year and set goals for the future year. Without any initiating on our part, his teachers and therapists were 'Peh Echad' of how different our son was after the summer in comparison with his situation when the previous school year ended, and how far he came over the summer months.

It is a difference that they see every day in the classroom and in his interactions. They were in complete agreement that it is to be attributed to his time at Camp Gan Israel Parksville.

Thank you again for what you might have considered to be a small favor, but for our son has made a tremendous impact.

Very appreciate parents