As I wrap up my service time with AmeriCorps and the Mt. Adams Institute, I can’t help but feel like the beginning of summer was ages ago.
Starting the position and switching gears from the idea of being a camp counselor outside to helping run a virtual camp was a constantly evolving process. I really enjoyed getting to adapt the curriculum and ideas we had for an in-person camp to a virtual platform. It has been a huge learning curve, but exciting to see how it has developed.
The teachers I have gotten to work with and the amazing, smart and fun campers have given me such a fun summer. I have really been doing a lot of editing of lessons, implementing fun and games into ZOOM sessions, and creating the A-HA! Kits of supplies that the campers get each week. While this summer doesn’t look like any other we’ve had, I have been so pleased that campers have expressed that they are having a good time and learning a lot. We have gotten a lot of repeat campers, which is always positive and great to have the chance to teach and learn new things with each new camp. Overall, I think our virtual At-Home Adventures have been a success and have certainly been an important part of trying to get kids in our community outside, even in these unfamiliar times. I am so happy and proud to have been a part of that.
I have enjoyed my time as an AmeriCorps member immensely. There is a real sense of community not only here in Trout Lake, but within the program. Even during a time where we can’t connect as much as normal. I look forward to continuing my work in the outdoor education world, and hopefully making that connection within the Public School sector! I leave the PLS program wishing it didn’t have to end and with a breadth of new knowledge and skills.
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