Service Day Blog for Family Supportive Housing Summer Camp

Under the Summer Sun: A Day of Service and Joy

July 8, 2025

It was a hot June day when we gathered—not for ourselves, but for others. As I looked at the summer camp supply kits prepared for 15 children from Family Supportive Housing, memories of my own first camp came rushing back. It was during another summer, where I experienced teamwork, joy, confidence, compassion—and how to stand on my own feet. Now, it was time for these children to experience the same.

At first, the task of packing all the supplies felt overwhelming. Could I really do this alone? But I wasn’t alone for long. Soon, more than 10 volunteers joined the station, bringing with them smiles, energy, and the same sense of purpose. We were working for kids we had never met—and likely never would. Yet in that moment, it felt like they were right there with us. That’s what gave meaning to the sweat and effort in the summer heat: the joy of giving, the silent bond of shared humanity.

After the kits were ready, we delivered them to Family Supportive Housing. Their staff welcomed the items with visible excitement. It was clear—they too deeply cared about making this camp experience something unforgettable.

After the camp ended, I couldn’t help but wonder — how did it go? Did the kids really enjoy it? Then suddenly, I saw an email from the Family Supportive Housing team. It was a heartfelt thank-you note — and even better, they shared stories and memories from the summer camp.

Here are a few of those special moments:

Story 1

As families waited for the bus, the lobby buzzed with energy. One mom tried to explain the difference between shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion, holding them up like a camp-themed game show. Her kids? Too excited to care. They were already unpacking and repacking their bags, giddy about their camp gear. It was pure, joyful chaos.

Story 2

Two campers ran up to the Programs Manager bursting with questions:
“Is there a pool? Can we swim every day? What time?”
They barely paused to breathe. It took a gentle reminder to “ask your counselor at camp” to slow the excitement. (We suspect the pool came up at least 50 more times.)

Story 3

A brother and sister stood near the lobby, wide-eyed and ready. “It’s our first time camping!” they told a staff member. They didn’t know what to expect—but their eagerness made it clear they were ready for adventure.

Story 4

Meanwhile, their toddler sister was not ready to say goodbye. She sobbed at the door, sobbed as the bus left—and kept sobbing until she was brought back inside. Whether it was heartbreak over her siblings leaving or her own FOMO about missing camp, no one can say. But we know one thing: she’s definitely signing up when her time comes.

Voices of the Campers

“I loved camp, and we were treated super good. Thank you for this opportunity!”
“I enjoyed the farmhouse and the river!”
“I want to come back next year!”
“I had so much fun, I fell and scraped my chin!”
“I liked the swimming pool!”

These moments remind us what a little compassion, a hot summer day, and a lot of heart can do. Here’s to many more memories made—and many more kids whose lives will shine just a little brighter because of camp.