Most importantly, they are making a place for memories to be made. And it is all part of an effort to celebrate the life and spirit of Tessa Steil, who brought much love and happiness to the lives of those who knew her. The opening will mark the realization of a dream for both Tessa s parents, Dave and Joanie Steil of Davenport, and another local couple, Mark and Vinnie Smith of Buffalo, Iowa, who wished to see their children afforded the same opportunities available to typical children. This year, the camp is two weeks long, and is funded by the John Deere Classic. A signup was held and all spots were filled in 90 minutes.
Place is a continuation of that program, offering adventures on a daily or weekly basis.
Some kids may come here every day, and some may only come once. But they will all have a great experience, said Mark Smith, who left his job as director of Camp Abe Lincoln near Buffalo to become the vice president of development at Tessa s Place. This is about quality care. It s like a recreation center to take the kids to and know they re being enriched, having fun, and being well taken care of, Joanie Steil said. Tessa had profound cerebral palsy, leaving her unable to walk or talk, something her mother said gives her rare insight into the importance of choosing a caregiver.