After a day full of Futbol, arts and crafts, volleyball, a friendly game of kickball, hula-hoop, and a nice dip in the pool - the campers went home tired and many memories from playing games with each other and learning about the volunteers. It was truly an amazing start to the first day of JASY Camp - we all had a blast seeing all of the campers arrive with huge smiles on their faces. The conversations that we had with the campers definitely warmed our hearts and we all cannot wait to continue to make memories with them throughout the week, talking about faith, teamwork, and many more themes!
Pictures from Opening Ceremony, Olympic Village, Caribbean Games, Field Events, the Pool, and Futbol!
Megan Bleck, one of the Yellow Team Ambassadors shared her experience from the first day of JASY Camp:
The first day at JASY Camp was definitely scary at first, but once the kids started to warm up it went really well. We did hit a few bumps along the way, but it was the first day, and now we know what to do for next time. Also, the team came up with some great cheers to do, and we will be working on more throughout the week.
Opening ceremonies was very energetic and uplifting. We heard from a Jamaican Olympian and I think that it was inspiring for the young kids to hear that you do not have to come from the best circumstances to achieve your dreams and provide them with hope. Also, the marching band was amazing and very entertaining.
Tyler Logan, one of the Caribbean Game coaches shared his experience from seeing all of the campers arrive at JASY:
Seeing the campers arrive at the camp today was just a huge breath of fresh air. Despite the heat and whatever could be happening in each of these children's personal lives, each and every one of them arrived with a huge shining smile on their face. Seeing how thrilled they were to be with us all day could make anyone smile.
My role at JASY camp is helping with Caribbean Games. In this time, our group help the kids just have fun and learn and enjoy games. Think middle school gym class, but without the yelling and constant laps. Today we played huge games of volleyball. I'm talking like 40 person games of volleyball! Seeing the kids just giggle and smile and squeal with each hit of the ball of whenever a point was scored was just a blast and I cannot wait to see how they are tomorrow!
Tomorrow, the theme for JASY Camp is teamwork. All of us will be talking to the campers about the importance of teamwork and how much of a positive impact individuals can have within a group setting, but also how it makes a for a more positive life for themselves, as well.