Sinopoli is a financial accounting consultant who lives in downtown San Diego.
I've been thinking about volunteering for several years, but I didn't know what to do. One day, her sister was in town visiting and she asked if I could take her to Promises2Kids because she was considering donating to Promises2Kids. Not knowing what to expect, we took a tour of their office. Although I felt sad, I remember feeling inspired by the organization's efforts and grateful for the resources available to us from people who care about children. After attending volunteer orientation, I needed to see if I could participate. Because you don't want your children to become adults who might become attached to the person who left them. I made that commitment in 2016 and continue to serve children primarily through the Camp Connect program. What keeps me coming back is both the children and the relationships I have with the other volunteers who bond over our shared interest in helping children have fun and forget about the outside world for a bit. My life has been enriched by both.
At Camp Connect, children separated from their siblings in care usually come together once a month to enjoy fun events while fostering important sibling bonds. It warms my heart to see teenagers supporting and encouraging their younger siblings. The brothers not only support each other, but also rally around others who may be struggling to overcome fear, such as the personal challenge of climbing higher up a rock wall.
Every summer, I enjoy a 5-night, 6-day camp program with my children. I came home tired, but the children gave me energy. Last year, a volunteer and I interacted with a 6-year-old boy running around. We invited him to participate in one of the activities, but instead he took my hat, wet it, and placed it in the mud. I calmly told him: “Thank you. Can you go tie-dye the hat?” He said no, but 10 minutes later I was wearing a lime green and pink tie-dye hat. Another volunteer said it was great to see him decorate the hat for me.
Camp Connect's summer camp begins Aug. 1, giving children ages 5 to 21 with siblings the opportunity to evacuate for a while. Summer camp is the most rewarding (albeit the most exhausting) thing I do each year. We are always in need of volunteers who want to be a conduit for fun. Without volunteers, there would be no summer camp. Summer camp activities include rock climbing, zip lines, water activities, arts and crafts, campfires, and more. If summer camp isn't your thing, Promises2Kids also needs volunteers to help assemble care packages, help around the office, and mentor youth in the transition to adulthood. Masu.
Over the past eight years, I have watched mischievous children grow into well-adjusted adults and grow older. We are sad to lose contact with our children, but we believe that with the continued support of other Promises2Kids programs, these children will be better and have a great start in life.
We look forward to seeing you again at an event where you can experience first-hand the benefits of supporting children in foster care.
