Groups unite for kids' camp
By Kapono Dowson
Advertiser Staff Writer
Six service clubs that support YMCAs across O'ahu have united for the first time to create a spring camp for 150 children.
The clubs make up the Metro Division of the Y's Men International-Hawaii Region, part of a global nonprofit service organization created in the 1920s to help the YMCA.
"This is the first time we've come together on one signature project," said Phil Sammer, regional director for Y's Men International-Hawaii. "Usually individual clubs work on their separate projects."
Together, the O'ahu clubs will try to raise $30,000 to make Kids to Camp a reality, Sammer said. A benefit dinner will be held Sept. 19 at the Japanese Cultural Center, with a silent and live auction, buffet and entertainment.
"How many kids we send to camp is determined by how much money we raise," he said. "We need $30,000 to send 150. If we raise less, we send less kids — it's as simple as that."
Teachers and counselors will choose fifth- and sixth-grade students who might benefit from the free camp, to be held March 28 to 30 at the YMCA's Camp Erdman.
"That's an age group that is just coming out of the cocoon of elementary school," Sammer said. "Structure has decreased. They become susceptible to bad influences. We'd like to catch these kids at that point and give them strong alternative means to resolve violence and to make better choices."
Professional YMCA Camp Erdman staff will supervise the camp and outdoor activities such as archery, hiking, storytelling, arts and crafts.
Community experts will lead workshops on cultural activities, career choices, healthy relationship-building and conflict resolution. Organizers also hope to have available peer counselors who have made the transition to middle school successfully.
Each YMCA has its own adult service club. Men and women interested in supporting the local YMCA join the corresponding Y's Men group. Members perform community service projects, with their main focus on supporting their local YMCA.
To get involved, call the local YMCA about joining its Y's Men International.
For tickets to the benefit dinner, call Sammer at 923-1877.
Reach Kapono Dowson at kdowson@honoluluadvertiser.com or 535-8103.
