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A camp where each child fits in

COLUMBUS—After having to take a year off because of COVID-19, the #iAmSomebody camp is back on this year with partners pulling it together a little differently.

This year, the camp will be held at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. 

Organizer Brittney Staley has partnered with the sheriff’s office to hold the camp for children free of cost June 14-18 at the sheriff’s office, located in Columbus. 

“This year we are excited to announce that we will be partnering with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office to make this camp happen,” Staley said. “We will discuss bullying, depression, self esteem, our feelings, why we are somebody and so much more.” 

The camp is an all-day camp, with lunch provided and many activities planned for the week. 

The camp began after Staley started the #IAmSomebody movement in 2015 after Staley lost a close family member to suicide. Staley said she prayed asking God to give her something that would help those struggling with depression, anxiety, suicide and mental illness and started the movement. She then started the camp to help reach young people to let them know that someone cares, someone understands and they are not fighting anything alone. 

The camp focuses on positivity, love, compassion and encouragement. 

People are encouraged to sign up their children for the camp as soon as possible. Anyone with questions or to fill out an application can contact Staley at 828-817-9290 or iamSSSomebody2015@gmail.com. People can also stop by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office for an application. The sheriff’s office is located at 164 Government Complex in Columbus.