A Year After Fire, Fundraisers Planned for Berkeley's Tuolumne Camp

By Tracey Taylor
Berkeleyside

The Friends of Berkeley Tuolumne Family Camp group is holding three fundraising events, starting this Friday, to mark the first anniversary of the Rim Fire, which effectively destroyed the much loved, city-run family summer camp.

On Aug. 25, 2013, the largest recorded wildfire in the Sierra Nevada burned 92 of the Tuolumne camp's 111 structures, including all of its main buildings.

The Friends of Berkeley Tuolumne Camp, the nonprofit organization that supports and serves the campers of Berkeley’s Camp Tuolumne, says the goal of the events is “to bring together the families of Camp Tuolumne and to keep their camp spirit alive and well as we work together to rebuild Camp Tuolumne.”

Here are details of the events, as published by the Friends group:

First event: Campfire Sing-a-Along with S’mores in Berkeley

When: Friday, August 22, 5:30-8 p.m.
Where: Codornices Park, Berkeley

Memorial Campfire featuring Janet Sowers and Rec Staff Alumni – Adult Social Hour + Children’s Hour. Join Friends of Berkeley Tuolumne Camp, former staff members and other campers for a special evening at beautiful Codornices Park to mark the first anniversary of the Rim Fire.

Second event: Candlelight Vigil

When: Monday August 25, 7-8 p.m.
Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Park (Civic Center Park), Berkeley

Join FOBTC, friends and family to remember and mourn the loss of our camp, but to also find solace in our community and in the Tuolumne Spirit, as we continue on the path toward rebuilding Camp. Please bring a candle and a friend.

Third event: Help Rebuild Camp. Tee Off for Tuolumne! A Golf Tournament and Dinner at Tilden Park, Berkeley

When: Friday, Sept. 5, 11 a.m.
Where: Tilden Park Golf Course, Berkeley

Golf Tournament —  $150 includes golf and dinner. Dinner and Auction  – only $25  (5:30 p.m.). All proceeds go toward "Rebuild Camp Tuolumne."

For more information on all the events, and to keep updated on FOBTC, connect with the group on Facebook.