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New set up brings lot of adventures

COLUMBUS—A free camp for area children brought a lot of exciting adventures this year as the #IAmSomebody camp partnered with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. 

The camp, which is focused on issues like bullying and mental health, was held at the sheriff’s office every day this week. 

This week brought 23-26 campers each day. 

Brittney Staley began the camp a few years ago and this year the camp included one day of talking about bullying, with the campers coming up with their own skits to perform. The campers also went fishing. 

Another day was focused on depression and anxiety, with the campers making brochures on ways to deal with depression and anxiety. 

The campers also got to see demonstrations of many vehicles while at the sheriff’s office, including law enforcement vehicles, local fire trucks and EMS ambulances. 

Thursday was focused on cyberbullying and how campers can use their social media to spread positive messages. 

The Spartanburg Regional One helicopter also visited the campers on Thursday. Campers got to sit in the helicopter, heard from the pilots and learned basic CPR skills from Polk County EMS. 

“It’s worth every bit of my time, energy and love if I can just reach one child each time I do this camp,” Staley said. “I really don’t have the words to explain how well this camp has been but it’s been phenomenal. We will continue to grow, spread positivity and love.” 

Staley also said she cannot say enough about Polk County Sheriff Tim Wright and the sheriff’s office staff for all they made happen during the week. 

Campers finished out their week Friday at Gibson Pool. The camp is done free of charge for children with food and snacks and activities provided through donations. 

More information about the #IAmSomebody movement can be found on Facebook at I AmSomebody Movement. 

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