The abundance of smiling faces, contagious laughter, and celebration of joy throughout this entire day had everyone wishing that it would last forever. We will all continue to spread this positive energy and gratitude during the last two days of JASY Camp and when we return to the states.
Samantha Lane, one of the many Swim Coaches, had multiple moments of joy interacting with campers in the pool today.
"One of the most rewarding parts about being on the team is being able to teach children to swim. The experience levels range from never having been in the water, to being excited to learn to dive.
Today, I was able to help a camper not be afraid of the water. I noticed her holding on tightly to the side of the wall and I asked if she knew how to swim. She hadn't, and seemed pretty nervous to be in the water at all. She said that she had tried to swim before, but never got it. Dedicating to try to help her out anyway, I taught her to kick her feet and then got her to floating on her back. By the end of the session, she felt brave enough to go under water and started telling other campers that now she can swim.
We, as swim coaches, are able to teach the campers a skill they can use for the rest of their lives, bringing them joy. The joy is returned to the coaches by seeing how happy the campers are that they have conquered a fear, and in knowing how happy they have become because of this newly acquired skill."
Pictures from dancing with Caribbean Games and morning announcements.
Pictures from the Yellow Team visiting the pool at UTech
Pictures from tonight's volunteer celebration dinner, with a special listening of a steel drum band!
Morgan Midwick, one of the Caribbean Games Instructors, had an experience from tonight that she would like to share:
"Tonight was a special experience. I am always amazed by the children's talents and their passion for them. We were able to see and listen to a variety of singing and musical acts; things we do not get to see during camp. When getting to know the children most topics surround sports or families because they are deeply related to JASY Camp. Tonight provided us with the opportunity to see another side of the children and celebrate the JASY spirit with them."