SUMMER SCHOOL ZONE: Creating a space for everyone

When I arrived on my first day of volunteering for Thrive at Life Monday,

Courtesy photo

June 1, I didn’t know what to expect. I knew I would be spending the week working with young individuals diagnosed with autism, but I learned quickly the week would be about the experience with them and much more than just helping at a summer camp. 

For those five days, it became an opportunity that taught me patience and brought me new friendships and a new perspective on spaces where everyone in this community should feel they belong.

During the first couple of days, I was excited but also learning how to adapt to a new perspective and environment. I wanted to make sure I was a supportive volunteer to all the campers. Campers were special in their own ways, and what was special to me was relating to each camper differently.

Throughout the week, I learned all the campers had their own personalities, hobbies and different ways of communicating. This also taught me I wouldn’t be all campers’ best friend but still be able to connect in a way. For example, I observed the campers loved being active and participating in group games, while others would like to focus on themselves in a quieter space and color.

One of my biggest takeaways from my week at Thrive at Life was the importance of being supportive and patient. Thrive at Life not only taught me exactly what to do as a camp volunteer but also to slow down with the campers and to listen with them to see what they needed so they can feel supported and safe in their environment. Whether it was asking campers to join a game or just asking them their favorite animal, learning from those small moments taught me what made the biggest difference.

Thrive at Life created an environment where everyone had the chance to succeed in whatever they wanted to express themselves in. The camp was filled with activities and field trips that were designed to encourage the campers’ confidence and independence. This included the zoo, movies, bowling, miniature golf and waterslides. Every moment was an opportunity for campers to try something new and get to know other campers. Seeing all the individuals’ faces when they won a game, or even something such as giant UNO, reminded me how encouragement can go a long way.

My favorite part of this experience was seeing all the relationships that formed between the campers and volunteers. Thrive at Life wasn’t just a place where I could help a camper; it was a place where everyone learned from each other every day. The campers taught me to be appreciative of different points of view and to recognize other strengths in each individual. The campers’ uniqueness, humor and perseverance made each day unforgettable.

Being there also has taught me to change my perspective on inclusion. Before volunteering at Thrive at Life, I knew the importance of being kind and treating others with respect. But those five days showed me what inclusivity meant and what it should be like every day. It meant making sure all should have an equal opportunity to feel important and express themselves in their own way. Real inclusion wasn’t just about making the campers fit in, it was about creating an environment where differences and diversity is respected and accepted.

Leaving this experience, Thrive at Life has taught me not just as a volunteer for a camp but also as a human being. I learned to connect just off simple conversations, board games and how the littlest things can make a difference. This week showed me everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, supported and valued.