ABLE Foundation ornament fundraiser kicks off

The nonprofit ABLE Foundation has launched its annual ornament fundraiser in support of Camp Treasure Chest, a summer day camp for children with disabilities.

This year’s ornament was created by Buf’s, in Beaufort, using a design from Harbor Island resident Freda Schroeder. It features a tri-color heron standing beside palm trees. The design is the fourth in a series of Lowcountry scenes, according to a Beaufort County press release.

Each ornament, which also can be used as a medallion, costs $16.

This is the sixth year the ornament sale has been held. Previous campaigns have raised $1,000 or more, said Mitzi Wagner, director of the county’s Disabilities & Special Needs Department, or DSN.

ABLE was founded as a private, nonprofit to complement the county’s special needs efforts, Wagner said. It can seek grants and fundraising unavailable to the county agency.

In recent years, as state funding has fallen off, ABLE has focused on raising money for Camp Treasure Chest. Wagner said the camp offers learning experiences, field trips and activities for young people who might not thrive in traditional day camps, including those with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and genetic disorders.

All proceeds from the sale of ornaments go to support Camp Treasure Chest, the county said. A limited number of ornaments from past years also are available at the Office of Disabilities and Special Needs by calling 255-6300.

Ornaments are available at several locations in greater Beaufort, including:

• Smiles by Wyles Dentistry, 134 Lady's Island Drive, Lady's Island

• Budget Print, 510 Carteret Street, Beaufort

• Sea Eagle Market, 2242 Boundary Street, Beaufort

• Green Herring Gallery, 1001 Bay Street, Beaufort

• Harbor Island Beach and Raquet Club, Harbor Island

• New Image Salon, 1615 Paris Ave., Port Royal

• Offices of Disabilities and Special Needs Dept, 100 Clear Water Way, Beaufort

Framing for ornaments is available through the Green Herring Gallery in Beaufort. A portion of the proceeds from framing will also go toward Camp Treasure Chest.

Wagner also said the ABLE Foundation is seeking members. Anyone interested in joining the group can contact her at 255-6290 to learn more. For more information on the ornament sale, call 255-6300 and ask for ABLE.