THE ROYAL TREATMENT

When abused kids visit summer camps founded by Diane and Wayne Tesch, above, of Costa Mesa, they get the red-carpet treatment--one supervisor for every two campers and activities geared to their needs. “It’s a camp where everybody wins; they don’t have to compete for approval,” Diane Tesch says. “We’re not looking for children to perform; we’re giving them an opportunity to succeed.” Recently the couple presided over the annual benefit for their nonprofit Royal Family Kids’ Camps Inc. of Costa Mesa. The Let’s Make a Memory event at the Irvine Marriott featured a sit-down dinner and an appearance by Pamela Whiting, a former Mrs. America. She spoke of the satisfaction she gets from being a foster mother to two children, both victims of abuse. This summer, Royal Family Kids’ Camps will provide camping experiences at local and national churches for nearly 2,000 children. Five churches in Orange County will participate, along with 47 churches across the country. The Tesches’ goal: 200 camps by the year 2000. “Camp does wonders for a child’s self-esteem,” Diane Tesch says. “And it gives them positive memories for a lifetime.” For information: (714) 548-6828.