FERGUS – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Centre Wellington is running their Camp URU for summer 2020 with a virtual twist. Offered for youth ages nine to 12, Camp URU allows kids to take part in various activities and games in a safe, virtual space.
With the camp being run strictly online, youth are able to take part in memorable summer experiences while being mindful of physical distancing restrictions.
The virtually updated summer camp began June 8 and will go to mid-August.
Camp URU runs Monday to Friday for three hours a day either in the morning from 9am to 12pm, or in the afternoon from 1 to 4pm.
Campers will join two counsellors in the secure online “room” where there will be programs and activities exploring decision making, healthy relationships, financial literacy, managing emotions, mindfulness and much more.
Registration is $60 per camper, however, “thanks to our sponsors, we do have subsidized spots if COVID-19 makes the registration fee difficult,” officials say.
Registration includes a Camp URU t-shirt (special COVID-19 edition), a care package with the supplies needed for each day and more.
“We know that youth have been struggling with the changes COVID-19 has brought on and we knew we needed to pivot Camp URU, just as we have done for our 1-1 and In School Mentoring programs. Waiting it out was not an option.” said Kristen Drexler, executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters Centre Wellington.
“We brought it back early when we knew classes were not returning for the rest of this school year and kids were missing their friends and their routine.
“We are thrilled to bring the regular Camp URU games, activities and thought topics back in a way that families can feel comfortable and safe.”
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Centre Wellington strives to continue to support children through COVID-19. The organization believes that Camp URU is vital for youth in the community, especially now.
Since the COVID-19 outbreak youth-serving agencies report a 350 per cent increase in calls from kids feeling lonely and isolated, experiencing anxiety, and voicing mental health concerns.
“It is important for children to still have fun and feel heard throughout this pandemic,” officials say.
“Camp URU gives children the opportunity to do so while still feeling safe and comfortable in their own home.”
For more information regarding Camp URU or to register a camper visit https://centrewellington.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/…/camp-uru/.
