Camp Rainbow

I spent the last four summers organizing, directing and running Camp Rainbow for underprivileged youth. It is non-profit and entirely staffed by volunteers. Last year, I took a directing role, as well as counselor to a unit. Although it was my job to teach and mentor the campers, much of the time I felt that they were the ones teaching me. Most of them came from poor families and had seen more than their share of trouble in their lives. I taught them crafts and outdoor skills, and in turn they taught me courage, patience and wisdom. I was consistently challenged and consistently rewarded. Throughout the year, I get calls from the campers when they have problems or just want to talk. I like to think that I am a positive role model in their lives and I know I am making a difference.