Rebuilding Broken Places offers summer camp
By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on May 18, 2005 1:45 PM
Youths will have another summer camp option, through a faith-based program begun last year by Rebuilding Broken Places.
The summer camp, called "Project YESS," which stands for Youth Educated for Successful Service, is for children ages 5-12. It will run from June 6 until August 26, weekdays from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at 2105 N. William St.
John Barnes, director of programs and operations for Rebuilding Broken Places, said the program offers plenty of opportunities for summer fun, with an emphasis on academics.
"It's not a babysitting thing," he said. "We want to make sure they don't lose what they have learned during the school year."
Offered are classes in math, reading, science, computer lab and the arts. There will be field trips, sporting events, a character education program and service learning projects such as visiting rest homes and a retirement center. And, because it is a faith-based program, Barnes said, there will also be a period of Bible study.
Breakfast, lunch and a snack are served each day, and because Rebuilding Broken Places also participates in federally-funded meals program, hot lunches are provided to youths in the community, even if they do not attend the camp.
The charges to attend the summer camp are a one-time activity fee of $50 and a weekly fee of $75. Scholarships and financial aid are also available.
Director of the summer program is Linda Spruill, a retired teacher.
Barnes said parents can sign their children up for one week or pick and choose which weeks they want to attend. He suggested registering early to ensure a space. With a ratio of one staff member per 15 students, the program can accommodate up to 50 youths each week. Registrations will be weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 581-9178, ext. 103 for more information.