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 Each Easter, the holy city of Lourdes, France, opens its arms ~ and streets, hotels and restaurants ~ to thousands of special needs youngsters and volunteer helpers who literally descend upon the town as part of a unique international pilgrimage program. Since the 1950s groups have been arriving from Great Britain, Ireland, eastern Europe, the West Indies and since 1998...the United States of America!
The American Special Children's Pilgrimage Group -- ASCPG -- is a non-profit organization that unites children and young adults with special physical, mental or emotional needs with volunteer caregivers for an unforgettable week in Lourdes. The cost of taking the children is fully funded by ASCPG through the generous support of friends, businesses and organizations. In addition to donations, we hold an annual dinner dance and giant 50/50 raffle to help cover expenses (airfare, hotel, meals and insurance). Volunteers generously contribute $1,000 for their journey, or recruit a sponsor for themselves.
What will these youngsters gain from such an experience? If it's true that the real healing power of Lourdes can be seen in one's spirit, then the benefits are incalculable: a new awareness of themselves and others; a sense of camaraderie with others from around the world who share some of their obstacles; a feeling of independence as they "make it on their own" without parents; an appreciation of other peoples and cultures; deep friendships with members of their travel groups; a week-long immersion in French life; and memories to last a lifetime. And helpers are often surprised at how their lives are forever changed by an ASCPG pilgrimage. One veteran volunteer, a schoolteacher, said, "I think our Blessed Mother sent me on this journey, not only to be a helper, but to see through the children's eyes the beauty that is all around us...all the time...no matter where we are, and to see the joy that others bring into our lives in many different ways."
Currently, there are three "small family" groups that travel with ASCPG to Lourdes each spring:
Group 601 - based in northern New Jersey
Group 602 - based in the New York City area (inc. Long Island, Westchester, Rockland and Orange Counties)
Group 603 - based in Philadelphia and southern New Jersey.
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