GabbaCamp Named Charity of the Year in Mahoning Valley

A year-round respite camp that serves children and adults with disabilities just got the recognition it deserves, along with funding to help even more families.

GabbaCamp, located in Coitsville just outside Youngstown, Ohio, was officially named Charity of the Year by the Newcomers of Mahoning Valley. The announcement came with a donation to support the camp's ongoing work providing respite and recreational opportunities for people with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities.

The camp welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and operates 365 days a year. Unlike typical summer camps, GabbaCamp provides year-round support, giving families essential breaks while offering campers a safe, fun environment designed specifically for their needs.

Golden String Inc., the nonprofit organization that runs GabbaCamp, received the award during a ceremony featuring camp director Jimmy Sutman, club president Kate Renfield, and several GabbaCamp clients. The recognition highlights years of quiet but impactful work serving one of the community's most vulnerable populations.

The Ripple Effect

The partnership between GabbaCamp and the Newcomers shows how grassroots giving creates lasting change. The Newcomers of Mahoning Valley isn't a massive foundation with corporate sponsors. It's a group of local women who meet for lunch, celebrate birthdays together, and choose one charity each year to support through their personal donations and fundraising efforts.

Their monthly gatherings, book clubs, and restaurant outings do more than build friendships. They create a network of people committed to making their community stronger, one donation at a time.

For families caring for loved ones with disabilities, respite care isn't a luxury. It's essential relief that prevents caregiver burnout and allows everyone to recharge. When camps like GabbaCamp receive support, the impact extends far beyond the facility itself, touching parents, siblings, caregivers, and entire family systems.

The Newcomers' model proves that community enrichment doesn't require wealthy donors or viral fundraising campaigns. Sometimes the most powerful change comes from neighbors choosing to show up consistently, year after year, for the people and organizations that need it most.

Those interested in learning more about GabbaCamp can contact Director of Operations Jimmy Sutman at 330-207-2628 or email whatsnew@gabbacamp.com. Anyone wanting to join the Newcomers of Mahoning Valley can reach out to Kathie at 330-702-1767 or Jeanne at 330-506-0544.

One camp, one women's group, and countless families now have more reasons to believe their community cares.