There's nothing wrong with spending spring break on a beach or climbing mountains or sitting on your couch binge watching Netflix. There's nothing wrong with working the entire week or doing a combination of them. But this year, I decided that instead of standing on a beach drunk for an entire week, I would participate in my school's alternative spring break.
I went to Camp Summit, a camp with a mission statement of providing barrier-free outdoor experiences that promote personal growth and foster independence for children and adults with disabilities. It wasn't my first time volunteering in a place that offered services for people with disabilities, but I was still nervous because it would be the most work I've done. I was terrified that I'd mess up or drop someone when lifting from a wheelchair to their bed or wherever. I was afraid that I'd forget everything I had just learned in training the day before campers arrived. But we assisted with everyday activities that most people take for granted their ability to perform. Once the campers arrived and we started to get to know them, the work seemed less like work and more like hanging out at camp with friends.
We did camp activities like arts and crafts, nature, horseback riding, sing campfire songs, etc. I had a camper paint my nails hot pink and purple and spray glitter in my hair to get ready for the dance on the last night. I had a camper decorate a crown and call himself a king. I had a camper get so excited about running around the rec center playing tag. It taught an important lesson — that you shouldn't categorize those with disabilities by what they can't do, but by what they can do. We spent the week assisting people who have more capabilities than most people would think, but that's what made the week so amazing. Their disabilities didn't limit them and I got the opportunity to be a part of their lives.
Yes, I believe that my school's ASB trip impacted the lives of those that came to camp during spring break, but I also believe that the campers impacted our lives in so many ways. We learned patience and the value of having it. We learned how to get out of our comfort zone and how to be comfortable there. We learned that your actions affect those around you. We learned that we may be exhausted, but it's one week. The things we did during camp were things that parents and caregivers do every day of their lives. We learned to not take things for granted, especially things like the ability to walk, shower, brush your teeth and eat. I think the most important lesson I learned was that this was the most fulfilling and amazing week of my life.
So I may not have had sand squished between my toes and I didn't have my usual pack of friends surrounding me. But I gained new friends (Shout out to Georgia Southern.Y'all made the week so much fun) and made new connections with people that go to my school. I gained an experience of a lifetime. I found a place that I love more than almost anything.
I'm not saying you should giving up your raging spring break to volunteer. I'm not saying that Camp Summit is for everyone. But for me, it was a remarkable place for remarkable people and I honestly can't wait to go back again.
Camp Summit is located in Paradise, Texas and offers camp sessions in the Spring, Summer and Fall. Click here to volunteer.
