“It was overwhelming but in a good way,” says Cerenna-tee Racey when reflecting on her first visit to CNIB Lake Joe at the age of nine.
“At that time, I was in mainstream public school system and didn’t know a lot of partially sighted kids. At Lake Joe, I met other kids my age, and we did new things together, like wakeboarding. I actually did it…and it was exhilarating!” says Cerenna-tee. “I was excited to meet other kids who had similar struggles. We were able to learn from each other. And on Family Weeks, the parents were also partially sighted or blind. It was important to see adults with a similar diagnosis to me functioning well and continuing with their lives.”
Cerenna-tee is partially sighted and hard of hearing and identifies as DeafBlind. After visiting CNIB Lake Joe for seven years as a camper, she became a seasonal staff member in 2019 and an Inclusion Support Specialist in 2021. This summer, she returns to CNIB Lake Joe as the Program Facilitator, Leadership.
“I’m here to assist people and help them gain as much from the camp experience as possible,” Cerenna-tee explains. “I’ve learned about the importance of accessibility and universal design. I’ve learned how to advocate. I’ve learned how to make activities fun and accessible to everyone.”
Her main goal is to help guests experience programs in different ways using different senses. A proficient braillist, Cerenna-tee got busy right away brailling books, schedules, and activity outlines so that guests could easily get info in whatever format they needed. At weekly talent shows, she ensured that dance performances were described – not just the steps but the sentiment – and that people could enjoy music by touching the speakers to feel the vibrations.
When asked what excites her most about her new role, she is passionate about promoting advocacy.
“From the time you can communicate, you can share what you need and how you need it. Advocacy is so important to all guests, no matter their age.”
Cerenna-tee walks her talk in her personal life too. She is working towards a BA in Human Rights and Human Diversity at Wilfred Laurier University and is the proud recipient of the Joyce Family Foundation Bursary, one of CNIB’s scholarship programs.*
This summer, Cerenna-tee is excited to get back to camp and wants you to join her!
“If you’ve never been to camp before, no matter how old or young you are, if you want to be somewhere where you’re going to feel comfortable and welcome, give CNIB Lake Joe a try. We will welcome you with open arms.”
* Every year, CNIB's scholarship program awards multiple scholarships, bursaries and other awards to people who are blind or partially sighted in recognition of their educational aspirations and achievements. Learn more about these scholarships and how you can apply for them!