Siblings Climb to Higher Ground
Like any summer camp, meal times were filled with noise, singing and spills, but at this camp, many siblings were sharing their first meals together. There were many other moments shared between brothers and sisters in group activities like the carnival night, 70’s dance and craft time. One of the highlights of Camp was the sibling hike. This is a lengthy hike in the woods along a river, where brothers and sisters are free from the distractions of their everyday lives. Siblings held hands, giggled, shared the beauty of the mountain range and had a chance to connect with themselves, each other and the world around them.
Among the favorite activities of the week are the ropes course and the climbing wall and the challenges they present.
Taking on these challenges gives children a chance to overcome fears and support each other to the finish, providing an undeniable sense of accomplishment.
One young man with physical disabilities worked his way up to the most difficult section of the wall, he stopped and commented he couldn’t go any farther. His brother, standing at the bottom asked him if he wanted to make it to the top and he said, “Yes”. The brother offered his advice “take a rest and keep going” he said. When that young man made it to the top, the smile on his face was worth all the work it took to support Camp. For those of us watching, it renewed our spirits and gave us faith in the ability of these children to overcome any obstacle.
Camp Connect California is a wonderful gift given to siblings separated from each other. Memories are made that will be held in the hearts of these campers for years to come.
