With an average of 50 attendees per day for the week long Summer Enrichment Camp, sponsored by the Unity in the Community Organization, it was truly a very successful event.

John Paul McIntyre worked as the director of the camp and was assisted by instructors Heber Najera, Ryan Fox, Martha Staley and Bryson Martin, along with community leaders, board members and community volunteers.

The week was packed full of fun and educational activities, with a concentration on math and science. Among the activities was a trip to Polk County High School’s farm, Emerald Springs Farm, skating, bowling, and trip to the Western North Carolina Nature Center.

Polk County law enforcement officers shared with the camp attendees about life behind the scenes of a police officer and the consequences of leading a criminal life. Leon Godlock, a Polk County native and police officer, led a separate session on bullying.

The camp gave Polk County youths a chance to learn social skills, reconnect with nature, make new friends, and spend their day being physically active. It is a known fact that school-aged children are in a very important developmental time of their lives and it is the goal to make the Summer Enrichment Camp a vital part of the process.

Funding for the camp was provided by a grant from the Polk County Community Foundation.

– article submitted by David Staley