For Immediate Release
June 23, 2006

Contact:
Matthew M. Hoidal, Esq.
(207) 655-3800
Beryl Wolfe
(207) 883-6083
E-mail: mhoidal@campsunshine.org
Web Site: www.CampSunshine.org

Charity Navigator, a national non-profit evaluation organization, has awarded Camp Sunshine its coveted 4-star rating for sound fiscal management, placing the Casco, Maine camp in the top 12 percent of rated non-profits.

“As the non-profit sector continues to grow at an unprecedented pace, savvy donors are demanding more accountability, transparency and quantifiable results from the charities they choose to support with their hard-earned dollars,” said Trent Stamp, Executive Director of Charity Navigator. “We are proud to announce Camp Sunshine has earned our 4-star rating for its ability to efficiently manage and grow its finances.”

According to Charity Navigator, only 12 percent of the charities rated have received at least two consecutive 4-star evaluations, indicating that Camp Sunshine outperforms most charities in the U.S. in operating in the most fiscally responsible way possible. Located in Maine’s Sebago Lake region, Camp Sunshine supports children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

Stamp added, “This ‘exceptional’ designation from Charity Navigator differentiates Camp Sunshine from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust.”

“This is indeed a great honor and really validates the work of our dedicated staff here at Camp Sunshine,” said Matt Hoidal, executive director of Camp Sunshine. “We are guided by a responsibility to our donors to operate in the most efficient and fiscally sound manner in carrying out our mission to serve families in Maine, the Northeast and throughout the U.S.”

Founded in 1984, Camp Sunshine (www.CampSunshine.org) was the first and remains one of the only camps in the nation whose sole focus is on serving the entire family, and not just the sick child. The program is free of charge to all families, and includes 24-hour onsite medical and psychosocial support. Bereavement groups also are offered for families who have lost a child to an illness. Camp Sunshine’s board of directors recently embarked upon a $14.5 million endowment campaign.

Over the years, Camp Sunshine has hosted families from 44 states and 15 countries, and provided a camp experience for more than 20,500 family members.

Based in Mahwah, New Jersey, and founded in 2001, Charity Navigator (www.CharityNavigator.org) is the leading charity evaluator in America. The company provides in-depth information on charities throughout the U.S. and works to advance a more efficient and responsive philanthropic marketplace by evaluating the financial health of America's largest charities.

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