Helping Families Break Cycles of Violence

Camping Retreat

Here at JUCONI we have been busy bees this past year with our group of youth and families. Here is one of the many activities we have done with our youth these past few months, enjoy!

For two days the youth from some of the sectors were able to “go camping.” The youth were on a one week vacation from school and this was the perfect outing to provide outdoor fun and a genuine vacation for the kids that they might not have been able to do with their families.

We went to a site where we were able to set up actual tents for the children to camp out in and play outdoors the entire time. The kids were so excited about the tents! Upon arrival the kids were shown around the campsite in order to know where the bathrooms were, the dining area, which tents were whose and, of course, the commons. We went over the rules of the camp, split into groups and then began playing some games. Lucky for us the sun wasn’t too strong so the kids were really able to enjoy the time outside.

The kids were asked to assist in preparing lunch and dinner for themselves. We wanted everyone to participate to help develop independence and self-sustainability. The kids were definitely more adept at peeling mangoes than I was and I definitely learned tons about Ecuadorian cuisine from them!

On the second and final day of camp the kids went swimming…and they loved it! Diving for objects, splashing, and of course, who can hold their breath the longest underwater. This was by far one of the favorite activities that the youth participated in and as to be expected, everyone was very tired on the bus ride home after. We really loved having the kids participate in the camp and we know this was a positive use of their free time. We hope to continue providing activities like this to our youth in the future and appreciate your donations! Thank you.

Sincerely,

Ashay