The story of Higher Ground is an exciting one!  In a short three and a half years what began as a pipe dream has become a reality way beyond our expectations. 

Our story is one of miracles - miracles in the lives of our campers and many miracles in the way we have been provided for.

In September 2004 Jacalyn Paulding (then Jacalyn Hosey) moved to South Africa in a voluntary capacity and joined Emma Roos (then Emma White) to begin the epic adventure that has become Higher Ground.

Jacalyn and Emma met in 2001 at a summer camp in Pennsylvania, USA, where both worked.  The camp was for children and adults with disabilities and the two fell in love with summer camping especially summer camping for people who have disabilities.  The next two summers they both went to camp again and, after the summer of 2003, both returned home (Jacalyn to Wyoming and Emma to South Africa). 

The dream, begun that first summer in 2001, was not forgotten though and, after much prayer and discussion, the decision was made. 

Jacalyn moved to South Africa and work was begun on forming a non profit organisation and running the very first camp. 

The first camp planned was for adults with an acquired brain injury, to be held in November 2004.  Two weeks before camp was to begin an excited group of campers were ready for their camp experience.  An equally enthusiastic group of volunteers (from all over South Africa) were ready to arrive in Durban for this new adventure.  So, with campers and volunteers all in place, the only thing lacking was the funding that had not yet materialised.  Through an incredible series of events, most definitely  orchestrated by the hand of God, a Trust donated the full amount needed for this camp to Higher Ground. 

The past three and a half years have continued in the same way.  As with all non profit organisations, funding will always be an issue.  Higher Ground is indebted to the many service organisations, Trusts, Foundations, companies and individuals who have ensured that our campers, all children or adults with a disability, are not denied the opportunity of what we believe to be a life-changing experience.

The second camp ever was held in February 2005, this time for adults who are blind or partially sighted.  In the July holidays of 2005 our first ever camp for children was held - a camp for teenagers who are blind or partially sighted.  2006 saw the introduction of a camp for children with an intellectual impairment as well as a camp for the children of Cheshire Homes. 

January 2008 saw the fourth annual camp for adults with acquired brain injuries as well as the fourth annual camp for adults who are blind or partially sighted.  In addition, in January the third annual camp for the children of Cheshire Homes Chatsworth was held.  In July 2008 the fourth annual camp for children who are blind or partially sighted will be held, as well as the third annual camp for children with an intellectual impairment.

Watch this space!  Exciting things are underway at Higher Ground.