Time to think about summer camp; need volunteers [United Way column] | Together

The last cold and rainy days we had in south-central Pennsylvania were not the days when the summer camp was automatically remembered. But after two years of frustrated plans and limited opportunities, it’s not too early to think about summer camps for your children or grandchildren.

Benefits of a summer camp for children include making new friends, playing sports, limiting or not having “screen time”, learning new skills, developing leadership skills, having role models for adults other than family members, participating in team activities and developing resilience. independence and self-esteem. Oh … and have fun!

A variety of camps are available in Lancaster County, offered by organizations such as Lancaster County Parks and Recreation (lanc.news/LancoCamps), Lancaster Science Factory (lanc.news/

SciFactoryCamps), Black Rock Retreat (lanc.news/BlackRockCamps), Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13 (lanc.news/IU13Camps), Spooky Nook Sports (lanc.news/SpookyNookCamps), YMCAs in Lancaster-Strasbourg (Lancaster / Strasbourg) YMCACamps) and local leisure centers in Lancaster, Litiz and Euphrates.

The 211 United Way Call Center provides information on camps near you. Dial 211 or visit lanc.news/UnitedWay211.

Summer volunteers

Volunteer and internship opportunities suitable for teens 16 and older and adults are available with a range of summer activities. For example, Lancaster Science Factory is looking for STEM camp consultants from June 13 to August 19 (details at lanc.news/SciFactoryVolunteer). Hands-On House has different needs of volunteers (more on lanc.news/HandsonHouseVol).

note: Programs involving adults working with children require multiple permits. Check with the host organization about their current requirements.

United Way of Lancaster County is proud to continue a 14-year partnership with the Rotary Club of Lancaster to secure funding for summer camps serving children in the Lancaster area. The focus of the Summer Youth Experience program is on tackling summer loss through the Curriculum in Science, Engineering, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics (STEAM). The Rotary Review Committee will announce successful candidates in late May.

To find other opportunities, visit uwlanc.org/volunteer. Volunteer Coordinators, please send current and future volunteering needs

@ uwlanc.org.

Barbara Cercher is the director of management for the United Way of Lancaster County.