Grenadines 2016 – Visit to the Cupids

Saturday was spent at the beach in proper Caribbean fashion. Our group took a ride down to Brighton Salt Pond beach, stopping on the way to buy some local fruits and drink fresh water straight from green coconuts. We’re sorry to say that store-bought coconut water simply cannot compare.

Sunday, in the tradition of our gracious hosts, was spent at the Deliverance Baptist Church, where Mr. Cupid is the pastor. The service, though a tad long (4+ hrs), was a beautiful way to be welcomed into the community. Our group wore their Sunday best, danced, sang, and greeted many of our campers to be.

On Monday we began our first day of camp on Lauders. As soon as we walked out of the house, there were a few smiling faces waiting to walk up the hill with us and help us set up the camp. The first day had an impressive turnout for the first day of camp; nearly 40 campers and a contingent of roughly 15 teenagers and young adults who came with their younger siblings to watch, laugh, and share more experiences with our students.

 

Camp has been an overwhelming success this far. Over the past 4 days our group has worked hard to refine their schedule, activities and child-management skills to make every minute as fun and fulfilling as possible. We can’t wait to see what they do next!

Student blurbs

Alex A. – Alex has been sending us all into fits of hysterical laughter with her unique brand of humor. At camp, however, she is no joke. She has been doing an amazing job leading games, organizing kids, and using her positive and authoritative “counselor voice.”

Alex V. – Alex, the group “dad”,  has wowed us all with his maturity, intellect, and insight. At camp he is a magnet for the youngest children, who flock to his warm personality, and use him like a human jungle gym.

Anna – Anna, our resident artist, has been a valuable resource at camp, teaching the kids how to make friendship bracelets, chalk paintings, sock puppets, and other fun crafts.

Olivia – Olivia has really come into her own as a counselor at the friendship camp. She is often the first to run out to greet late arrivals to the camp, make them feel welcome, and get them plugged into activities. Around the house, she is equally fun and hard working. We will frequently hear her belting out Beyoncé while cleaning the kitchen.

Nora – Nora is as cool as a cucumber. Her easy going attitude and great sense of humor have gotten us through many a tense situation during long camp planning sessions. At the camp, however, she is a firecracker. Quick to jump up and sing, dance, and sprint around with our adorable campers.

Ben – Ben has been quickly and openly falling in love with the island of St. Vincent. His sincere and inquisitive approach to learning about music, politics, religion, and culture has made him many new friends. At camp, that same nature has endeared many of the local kids to him, who chase after him screaming his name.

Eli – Eli has been a total rockstar at camp! It is so clear that he takes his responsibility seriously to entertain, educate, and discipline (when necessary) the kids in the community. He ends every day covered head to toe in sweat, mud, and a beaming smile.

Blair – Blair has filled two critically important roles in our group; she is the mediator who encourages us all to resolve disputes with compassion and empathy. She is also the perfect antidote to a normal day. Her comedic acting skills shine during group games, chill times, and chores.

Jasper – Jasper has made many great insightful contributions to group discussions, and has put much effort into improving his cooking and cleaning skills. At camp he has run some ridiculously fun activities like zombie tag, card games, and capture the flag.

Charlotte – Charlotte is a very strong leader in our group. She is never afraid to speak her mind, guide the group in the right direction, and roll up her sleeves to get down to work. At camp she is the same way, taking initiative and leading activities. Our favorite quote thus far was “No, you can’t have any chalk until you say sorry”, spoken like a true pro.

At the ‘salon’

Ari – Ari, being one of only two LIAs who were not LITs last year, has done an amazing job diving into this weird and wild group of students. She has been one of the leaders who leads with actions instead of words. At the camp she naturally connects with the local kids, and can be seen sprinting on the soccer field or getting her hair braided on the bleachers.

My – My is often referred to as our MVP, and not just because they are his initials. He is incredibly dedicated to getting the most out of every single experience on this program. His soccer classes have been a huge success at camp, and have earned him the respect and admiration of the local aspiring footballers. Around the house he is a quiet authority figure, doing good deeds that are seldom seen but always felt. He is also the driving force behind a growing post-camp workout movement that is keeping our minds and bodies in top shape.

Marybeth – Marybeth is another strong and outspoken leader who truly understands the delicate balance between leading by words and example. Around the house she is a goofy and enthusiastic motivator, who can also be found locked in deep intellectual conversation with any and every member of our group. At camp she is even more hard working-working, and can be found cover head to toe in paint with captivated children following her around like little ducklings.

Lauren – Lauren has ever so gracefully found herself in a leadership role amongst our camp staff. Her tireless work ethic, unending positivity, and knack for tactfully disciplining children have made her an invaluable player. Around the house, she is often affectionately referred to as “mom”, using those same skills to make sure our whole group works hard, and lives as our best selves.