Aug 21, 2023
Community Collaboration of Delawares (CCD) has successfully concluded its much-anticipated 2023 Summer Camp at Carrie Downie Elementary School. Running from July 10th to August 3rd, the camp was a hub of excitement, learning, and community collaboration, with each week bringing unique experiences and adventures for the participants.
Week 1: A Strong Start with Healthy Habits and LEGO Fun
The first week kicked off with a bang, as campers were treated to a variety of engaging activities. The UD Behavioral Health & Nutrition team and Ms. Ewa from the New Castle Public Library joined the camp on Monday. While the older students delved into the world of healthy eating habits, the younger ones embraced their creativity with Ms. Ewa's captivating Lego Club. Later in the week, campers got to enjoy Exquisite Delite's awesome STEAM based cupcake decorating program and hang out with pups from Paws for People! Week 1 concluded with a field trip to Penn Cinema to see the movie 'Elemental' and eat some yummy popcorn...Mmm!
Week 2: Learning Through Hands-On Experiences
Week 2 witnessed a flurry of hands-on learning experiences. Campers had the privilege of interacting with local heroes from the Goodwill Fire Department and the Delaware State Police. The encounter was both inspiring and educational, as the young participants gained insights into the roles these heroes play in ensuring safety within the community. A special thank you was extended to the UD Health Behavioral & Nutrition Program and Ms. Ewa from the New Castle Public Library for once again integrating hands-on educational activities for the youth campers. The second week of camp concluded with field trips to the Wilmington Blue Rocks "Camp Day" baseball game and a fun ferry ride to learn Delaware history at Fort Delaware State Park.
Week 3: Engaging Learning and Outdoor Adventures
As Week 3 rolled in, the excitement didn't wane. The Delaware Blue Coats basketball clinic, sponsored by AmeriHealth Caritas Delaware, offered campers a chance to develop basketball skills while exploring a mobile health bus. Additionally, a range of engaging activities including cupcake decorating with Exquisite Delites, coping skills workshops by the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, a second PAWS for People visit, and water day play contributed to a dynamic & enriching summer camp experience.
Week 4: An Epic Finale
The concluding week of the camp was a testament to the program's success. It started with a final session of healthy eating habits and Lego Club, delivered by the UD Health Behavioral & Nutrition Sciences program and Ms. Ewa from the New Castle Public Library. This was followed by the final STEM-based cupcake decorating session with Exquisite Delites, as well as the last exhilarating water day featuring a Spider-Man themed water slide. The camp wrapped up with a memorable field trip to Battery Park on Wednesday and a fun-filled 'Last Day Luau' party on camp's final day, which featured water games, special guest volunteers, and a lot of laughter!
Throughout the four weeks, CCD's summer camp fostered an environment of learning, collaboration, and community engagement. The campers were able to broaden their horizons through diverse experiences and develop valuable life skills while building lasting friendships. CCD expresses its heartfelt gratitude to all partners, sponsors, and staff who contributed to the success of this year's summer camp, highlighting the community's united effort in creating an unforgettable summer camp experience for the youth participants.
As the curtains close on the 2023 summer camp, CCD looks forward to more opportunities for growth, exploration, and connection in the future. With the motto #CCDcares, the organization's commitment to the community remains steadfast, paving the way for continued success and positivity for all involved.