FirstEnergy Foundation Provides $7,500 for Gabba Camp

COITSVILLE, Ohio – The FirstEnergy Foundation donated $7,500 Tuesday to Golden String Inc.’s Gabba Camp.

The money will go toward interior improvements and accessibility for individuals with disabilities, James Sutman, Golden String’s daily director of operations, said. Golden String provides a variety of services for individuals with developmental disabilities through its various programs.

Intended to provide recreational opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities, Gabba Camp is being developed on McCartney Road land next to Farmer Casey’s Ranch, which Golden String also operates.

In January 2022, Sutman outlined plans for a campus that will consist of a lodge, 15 cabins and an amphitheater. It will offer swimming and equine therapy.

He projected the project’s cost at between $3.5 million and $4 million. It would provide a place to vacation that’s “free or nearly free” for Golden String’s clients, many of whom live below the poverty line. 

In addition to providing a vacation destination, the cabin could be used for medical quarantining or to isolate someone having behavioral issues, Sutman said.

Through its programs, Golden String deals with individuals, especially on the autism spectrum, who have intermittent explosive disorder and may need to get away from their home for a time to cut down on the anxiety. 

Pictured at top: James Sutman, second from left, Golden String’s daily director of operations, is presented a check for $7,500 from the FirstEnergy Foundation.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.