This week was all about learning to rely on each other, creating community and settling into camp. After two nights in the wilderness, campers returned from cabin trips with new excitement for long trips and feeling ready for a week of SAM Camp cook, Sam Arfer’s, delicious meals.
On Monday, we dove right into social justice with Identity Night when the campers explored who they are, and practice creating safe spaces when people share things that make them feel vulnerable. In small groups, they were asked to talk to each other about their impressions on a range of issues, including gender, race, and personal moments that made them feel proud. At the end of the evening, one camper expressed that it was “an amazing experience” to speak openly about topics that are not often addressed in school, especially since the discussions included many other people his own age.
Tuesday was a Service day trip, when SAM campers give back to the outside community. They all piled into the vans with instruments and song cards, and drove to a local retirement center to sing songs! Afterwards, they took a much needed break from the heat with a swim at Buttermilk Falls.
SAM campers worked hard for two days to pull together a skit for their friends at Interdependence Day on July 10. From a talking robot to a giant cow costume, and a mash up of re-written pop songs, the campers had the whole audience on their feet by the end of the night.
By the end of the week, campers were ready to hear about their long trips that span over five days and four nights! From hiking in the Adirondacks, to canoeing in Maine, the long trips offer campers the chance to get into the backcountry and live interdependently with each other while marveling together about the earth and the stars. Have fun, campers! Can’t wait to hear all your stories when you return! See you soon!
— Josie Nickum, SAM Staffer
