Last Day

During our last day with the camp, we continued to play games and read books. Our big project was helping the kids decorate t-shirts with unique drawings about who they are. 

Many thanks to all who donated t-shirts and supplies for decorating the shirts. You'll see that instead of tie-dying, we colored them yellow -- a bright color to reflect their light and joy. (And a easy to spot on field trips!)

 Some older youth with adult support worked with a mobile HIV testing and counseling unit from the Mazzoni Center, an effort to make testing and STD screening accessible to communities most at risk. 

We enjoyed Philadelphia delicacies this evening -- cheese steaks, hoagies, and pizza -- followed by a time of reflection about our wonderful week.

Day 4

Our hearts and minds were blessed by our encounters today which began with a reading about Jesus and his encounter with the Syrophoenecian woman.

 The group continued to work with the day camp and shared lots of new games donated by birthday gifts to one of our youth.

 Other members of the group worked on t-shirts, some projects around Old First including weeding and trimming and some carpentry. 

Others traveled to Logan Circle and Love Park and the Parkway to share sandwiches, water, and conversation with persons who are homeless. We heard incredible stories of overcoming challenges.

 After dinner we enjoyed an ice cream treat and lots of laughter.

Day 3

A very, very busy day with the camp, sorting clothes at the Aids Thrift Store, hearing the stories of persons with HIV/AIDS, cooking, cleaning, and a trip via the "El" to Kensington, the neighborhood where some of the camp kids live and where the I Read Every Day Camp was held two years ago when some members of the group were here.

Day 2

Today we enjoyed our first day at camp -- playing games, reading, doing crafts, making and serving meals for the kids. Some of us also visited the Aids Thrift Store. 

We heard about the challenges of homelessness in Philadelphia and ways we can help people to imagine new possibilities.

 The whole group ended the day with a walk to South Street.

Day 1

We left Frederick after church to travel to Old First Reformed United Church of Christ. 

We met with Pastor Michael Caine and others as we learned about our work at the day camp each week and other ministries.

 After dinner we took a quick stroll through Penn's Landing and enjoyed the Delaware River waterfront and a tall ship.