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Summer is in full swing at Okanagan College campuses across Kelowna, Penticton, Vernon, and Salmon Arm, where Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃhas opened its doors once again.  Running throughout the summer, Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃaims to engage children in a variety of interests from engineering and arts to music, science, culinary arts, trades, and computers. With hundreds of children expected weekly, the campuses are buzzing with laughter and excitement as kids dive into their passions.

For families like the Smiths, Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃisn't just a summer camp—it's a vital support system. Mom Rhonda, whose daughter attends the Kelowna Campus.

"We've been part of Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃsince summer 2022, and this will be our third year," she said, adding that choosing Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃwas an easy decision due to the camp’s diverse classes, extended hours of care, and most importantly, its compassionate staff.

"The staff's support meant everything to us," she continued. "Just before our first summer at Camp OC, our daughter Caylee was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. We were worried about how the camp would accommodate her needs, but they exceeded our expectations. Their care and understanding made our first year a success, and since then, we haven't looked back."

Reflecting on their favorite Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃmemory, Rhonda recalls with a smile, the experience her daughter had.

"Our daughter loved making potions at fairy camp—it was such a magical experience for her."

When asked about recommending Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃto other families, Rhonda is enthusiastic.

"It's such a wonderful and supportive environment for kids to have fun and learn during the summer," she says. "The hours are great, and if you want your children to be safe and well cared for while exploring their interests, Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃis the perfect choice."

Behind the scenes, Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃis also shaping the careers and aspirations of its staff members. Emilie, a second-year Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃAttendant, said her experience is helping her future career.

"This job has given me invaluable experience in working with children in a professional environment," she says. "I've taken on roles focusing on basic first aid, supply management, organization, and classroom management—all skills that will support my future career as a teacher. My training in ADHD, autism, Indigenous reconciliation, and active supervision has been crucial not just at Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃbut in all aspects of my life."

"Working at Camp OC, I feel accomplished every day. There's a perfect balance of being busy and having fun. The work is continuous, but it's filled with laughter and joy."

Vanessa Strachan (Bobbitt), a Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃProgram Coordinator, shares how Okanagan College and Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃhave been integral to her educational journey.

"I graduated from ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃin 2016 with my Early Childhood Education Certificate," she said. "The College's promotion of lifelong learning inspired me to pursue a bachelor's degree, which I completed in 2021. Now, I'm excited to return to school this August to start the Doctor of Medicine program at UBC, with a goal of becoming a pediatrician. My experience with the Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃteam this past year has solidified my career aspirations—it's been incredibly fulfilling."

As Camp ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃcontinues to enrich the lives of children and staff alike, it's evident that beyond the summer activities and educational opportunities, it fosters a community of support, growth, and achievement at ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃ