August 26, 2003, GAINESBORO – Camp Discovery will use a $9,400 U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development grant to construct a shade shelter over the therapy pool, U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon said.

"Camp Discovery helps clients with special needs develop better motor skills, gain social confidence, and improve physical control and abilities," Gordon said.

"The camp partners with Tennessee higher education students and faculty to design and implement a variety of programs to improve the clients’ quality of life."

In 1981, the Tennessee Jaycees Foundation purchased 186 acres about 12 miles west of Gainesboro that would become Camp Discovery. The facilities that house 96 campers and 24 counselors were built a year later.

"The purpose of Camp Discovery is to provide therapy and recreational training programs for mentally and physically challenged persons," said John Germ, president of the Tennessee Jaycees Foundation.

"A shade shelter near the wheelchair-accessible swimming pool will allow clients to use the pool and relax in a shaded area. Now, they have to go back to the dorms."

Camp Discovery is located on the Flynn’s Lick Creek area of Cordell Hull Lake in Jackson County. The camp’s facilities include a 120-seat dining hall, three cabins, an infirmary, a multi-activity barn and a covered pavilion located on the lake.

"We have two priorities at Camp Discovery: to provide water-related and outdoor activities during summer months for our campers and to provide training and hands-on experience for others who may implement similar camps in other states," Germ added.