470 Pound Teen Receives Partial Scholarship to Attend Camp Shining Stars

Online, March 23, 2010 (Newswire.com) - An anonymous donor, who will match all future donations, generously funded the scholarship that will be used toward this summer's camp tuition. Hood's award was selected based on a sincere essay he penned expressing how his success at Camp Shining Stars in 2009 jumpstarted his focus toward healthier living. The 15-year old made headlines in 2009 when he started his first day at summer camp weighing over 500 pounds.

Pending additional donations, Hood may be one of 100 campers who will spend their summer at Camp Shining Stars on the campus of Barton College. A close community has been shown to promote healthy living as campers motivate each other and learn that they are accountable for their choices. Because of the small camp size and nurturing environment, staff and campers get to know each other well over the 6-week session.

Donations toward Hood's tuition can be made through the Healthy Children Foundation. "We're excited of Anthony's scholarship award. He had such a successful summer last year; I can't wait to see what he will accomplish this year," said Ira Green, Director of Camp Shining Stars. "We are grateful that individuals know the value of our camp and Anthony's potential."