In 2021, with the Executive Director and one other volunteer, elbow grease, determination, and plenty of salon pas, the Soul Garden, our Community Garden was created. The Soul Garden was created on a lot that sat empty and dormant for about 9 of the ten years we had been in operation. That year, the garden did not yield food but it yielded a sanctuary and an open space for the campers to have a serene moment. There was an area created with annual flowers, and 2 handmade benches that were hand-painted by another volunteer. The serenity garden was covered by a large shade tree which provided an extra layer of peace and calm for the campers. Within days, a large fire pit where the campers have been able to have friendly conversations and sometimes a s’more was built by another community member. 

 

Additionally, we decided to build a field for archery to provide a space that would teach patience, and focus, boost self-confidence, and allow and build agency while ensuring safety for fellow campers.  We were able to make sure we had a certified level-one archery instructor. 

 

Camp 1302 is approaching youth and public safety by providing a place that is conducive to learning, that is filled with people who care deeply for the youth and their ability to become change agents no matter where they stand in life. We give them a chance to be kids with an agency. We give them structure and introduce them to things, people, and places that they may have seemed out of reach.