Media Release

For Immediate Release: July 19, 2007

For more information:
Stephanie Johnson, Children First Project MARCH
828-259-9717 or 828-779-4428 (cell)

Summer camp participants to show photography and stories of their experiences at Pisgah View and Deaverview Apartments – July 25 and July 26

“My favorite part of summer camp is seeing the mountains, the view. It’s like you are seeing heaven.”

These are the words of one of 23 participants in the Children First Project MARCH/YMCA summer camp – a seven week camp for elementary-age children living in Pisgah View, Deaverview, and Woodridge Apartments. The camp is a partnership between Children First and the YMCA.

The campers will celebrate the end of camp with a display of photographs and their stories at “Taking the Plunge: A photo adventure” on July 25, 4:00-5:00 PM, at the Deaverview Community Center and on July 26, 3:00-5:00 PM, at Pisgah View Community Center. Campers were each given a camera to document their adventures at camp and staff recorded and transcribed their stories. Parents of campers and the community are invited to view the campers’ photos and stories and enjoy some light refreshments.

“Many of these children had never attended summer camp before,” notes Stephanie Johnson, Project March Coordinator. “This camp has expanded their horizons and built their self-confidence through hiking, swimming, and visits to UNCA, AB Tech, and area businesses.”

In an informal survey, all of the campers said they tried something that they had never done before and tried something that they were afraid to do – like sliding down a waterfall and other outdoor activities. They also said that they felt more confident in themselves after overcoming their fears and being willing to take a risk.

Their sense of adventure and rising to the challenge is captured in one camper’s description of a day at High Falls: “At first when I went to the top of the rock by the waterfall it was really scary and I didn’t want to do it. But then I saw my other friend and my little cousin slide down the very top rock. Then I thought if my little cousin could do it, so could I…When it was time to go I didn’t want to leave.”

Children First improves the lives of children, youth, and their families through advocacy, community collaborations, and services. Children First Project MARCH provides after-school academic assistance and enrichment at three Homework Clubs located in Pisgah View, Deaverview, and Woodridge Apartments.
 

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