Kids Camp, Learn Life Lessons in Wilderness
Thanks to our donors, Mercy Home's young people explored the wilderness and strengthened relationships with peers and staff during the summer of 2008. Camping trips held throughout the summer helped our young people realize that they're part of a larger world beyond the city, and gave them time to see the majesty of God's creation. The trips provided opportunities for healing--opportunities for our kids to work together, to see things they never thought they'd see, to form friendships, and to learn that they are brave and strong young men and women.
In trips to five states, 135 Mercy Home youth in our residential, mentoring and AfterCare programs fished, camped, hiked, canoed, climbed and swam. They learned about leadership, cooperation and trust through team-building exercises. And, they increased their self confidence and overcame fears by working through obstacle courses.
For example, while camping in Wisconsin, Lorenzo had the opportunity to face one of his biggest fears--heights. All of the staff and youth were taking part in a supervised activity that involved donning a safety harness and riding a zip-line from atop a 35-foot high platform across a lake and back. Understandably, Lorenzo was very reluctant at first. But, after much support and encouragement from his peers and staff, Lorenzo shut his eyes as tight as he could and leaped off the platform, zooming across the lake. Afterward, he told staff that although he had his fears, he felt it was important for him to test his ability to overcome obstacles in life.
The trips offered many experiences like these that provided youth with opportunities reflect on their own lives and attitudes. Sitting down with peers and staff to reflect on the lessons of each activity was a critical step in helping each youth achieve the measure of change and growth that these outings were designed to facilitate. Each activity exposed youth to new challenges and allowed them to practice the skills they acquired in program within the context of a new and unique environment.
The outdoor learning experiences were made possible by donors across the country who responded to Fr. Scott's call for help in sending our young people to camp. We thank everyone who responded so generously to this appeal. Congratulations to all of our young men and women who participated and to our co-workers who guided them on these outings.