By: Amy Hopf, Digital Content Associate
Every child should get to experience sleep-away summer camp. That’s why, for two weeks this August, Parks & Rec helped send over 180 children from Philadelphia to attend Camp Speers in the Poconos as part of the Camp Philly program.
Youth campers traveled up to camp on either August 12 or August 19 for a week in the woods.
Under the guidance of positive adult role models, campers participated in a wide range of activities all week long. During a day at camp, the kids had the chance to:
- Canoe across Lake Nichecronk
- Practice archery
- Jump rope and participate in four square competitions
- Fly down a slip ‘n slide
- Chant singalongs and cheers
- Go swimming
- Learn new group games
- Participate in a bonfire with songs and speeches
Summer camp is a great opportunity to experience something new out of the city for these campers. The children do not have access to phones during the week, allowing everyone to get in touch with nature and the outdoors, and get to know each other!
It was powerful to see how the kids responded to their time at camp. One evening, a young camper shared a poem she wrote about the experience:
“Why do all my friends have to leave?
I’m most going to remember the trees.
I’ll be missing all the counselors, it’s such a blessing.
I’m so grateful that I’m at this camp.”
Her touching comments show how a week in the woods can be eye-opening and life-changing for anyone.
Camp Philly, presented by Bank of America, offers a low-cost option for Philadelphia residents looking to attend summer camp. Each June, parents have the opportunity to apply for a Camp Philly scholarship valued at $900. A completed, eligible application must be submitted to a recreation leader, along with the $30 application fee.
See photos from Week 1 and Week 2 to get a glimpse of the Camp Philly experience.
