Hurricane Irma changed the scenery of Camp Wingmann a little bit this past weekend, and leaders are hoping the community can help restore its beauty.

The huge youth retreat in Avon Park, which has been a welcoming place for decades with its summer camps and spirituals, suffered severe damage to two buildings, some damage to other structures, and lost a number of very large oak trees. Camp Wingmann also lost power and has no running water.

The community can help Camp Wingmann take steps toward restoration at 9 a.m., Saturday. Helpers are asked to bring their own water, food, gloves, yard tools, etc.

“We have no power and probably won’t get power until Sunday,” said Camp Wingmann director, Father Deke Miller. “No water, either. We’re taking it day by day.”

The diocese announced that work crews are welcome over the coming weeks, according to the Rev. Canon Tim Nunez. “Please let us know if you know of anyone who may be able to volunteer heavy equipment to move the heavy tree trunks and branches,” he said.

Camp Wingmann also is accepting donations for its relief effort. Please send donations to: Camp Wingmann, Inc., 3404 Wingmann Road, Avon Park, FL 33825.

Contact Miller at dmiller.campwingmann@gmail.com or 772-828-9304 to schedule a time and project or to volunteer in other ways.