Camp Kindle was established in August of 1998. The organization's Founder and President, Eva Payne, has been an advocate for people impacted by HIV and AIDS since the mid-nineties and has an extensive background in youth camping programs. As a 21-year-old college student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Eva realized that each year hundreds of young people impacted by HIV and AIDS were not having the opportunity to attend a summer camping program which focused on their particular needs. She had a dream to start a summer camp, which would offer children living with HIV and AIDS the chance to be accepted, find hope and friendship along with developing their knowledge of wellness and personal strengths. The demand for this therapeutic and recreational intervention, coupled with her experience provided the foundation for Camp Kindle. Mandy Nickolite Muehling, 22 at the time, came on board as the Vice President and Camp Director in January of 1999. She brought with her a strong background in mental health. At the time, she was working on her Masters in Counseling at Doane University in Nebraska. In July of 1999, with the help of 30 professional volunteer staff members, Camp Kindle held its first camp session in Hordville, Nebraska serving 50 campers. Today, Camp Kindle has served over 1,500 children.
