Day Four of Camp – Update
A silver lining to all this rain: each night, the showers wash away the chalk artwork on the parking lot, giving the kids a clean slate every morning. Many campers love to draw, creating mosaics of their dreams, rainbows, sunsets, stick figures, and family portraits; sometimes, they write words in chalk that give us a glimpse into their inner world. Our counselors are trained to subtly monitor these messages, as they can occasionally signal a cry for help; it’s an important way for us to identify and support those in need. I will take a few photos of their artwork and post them on our website soon.
The campers are excited to be back as they know that they’re safe here—fed, loved, and kept busy. We are still receiving new registrations, and it’s encouraging to see more children coming from shelters this year. We have already identified campers who want to take food home for a sibling or Mom and are discreetly providing them with bags of food at dismissal.
The heat and humidity have been tough. Many campers arrive, eat breakfast, then rest their heads on their arms for a quick nap, grateful for a full belly and some air conditioning after hot, sleepless nights. Inside the parish hall, it’s surprisingly fun (and chaotic!) giving a group of 15 fifth graders a giant beach ball and challenging them to keep it in the air for 50 hits—then raising the goal. It’s simple, joyful play, and the room fills with laughter.
We have a busy schedule this year: Pool twice a week, Yoga and Mindfulness once a week – surprising popular – even the older boys, Movie day – Smurfs, Adventureland – a fan favorite, Fishing trip – sponsored by the Veroline Family, Field Day, Crazy Hair Day, Pajama Day, Crazy hair, hat, and socks day, Bowling Trip, a classic Field Day, and an end of year Talent Show.
Today is our first pool day, always a highlight! Naycha is now distributing swimsuits for those who do not have. We’re also hoping to bring back the Ice Cream Truck this year, and today has already been generously sponsored by the Andrew DeBardelaben Family—thank you!
If you’d like to sponsor an ice cream pool day, it’s $200. Just reply to this message and we’ll work out the logistics.
What better way for a man in his autumn years to spend his time than to be surrounded by music and the laughter of children?
Thank you for being part of this community, have a safe holiday!
Joe
