Since 2002, John and his wife Julie have fostered dozens of kids and, along the way, adopted five of them. As foster parents, they were introduced to the Illinois Royal Family Kids camp, which provides a summer camp experience just for wards of the state – a seemingly simple idea that builds invaluably positive, motivational relationships between stable, caring adults and children in need.
After moving back to Louisiana, the Wondergems were determined to open a Royal Family Kids camp in Louisiana. They enlisted their family, church congregations and volunteers around the state to make it a reality. Each year Royal Family Kids serves 50-60 kids, creating hope and love for those who have experienced abuse and neglect.
John’s work has inspired three other Royal Family Kids camps to open in Louisiana. He hopes to provide even more children with the chance to experience the joys of childhood in a positive, motivational environment.