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Shine Camp

 


Shine Camp is an on-going project that is my biggest to date. This camp project was started in 2015 for homeschooled youth in the state of Utah who participate in the performing arts. Many performing arts groups of this sort are already available to homeschooling youth and I wanted to create an end-of-year experience to help youth come together and showcase their creations. Directors can sign their casts up for this 2-3 day camp held annually in May. 2 "camp counselors" are chosen from each cast to help plan and execute the camp with leadership positions. Each cast is given a time slot during the camp to perform their show for the rest of the camp. They bring their set, costumes, props and actors up to camp to put on an outdoor performance. 




When actors are not performing or cheering on another cast, there are workshops, group devotionals, acting lessons, service projects, meals, hikes, crafts, and more to keep them occupied. Each cast is split up into different "teams" so youth are getting the chance to meet new people and make new friends. Directors and adult leaders can volunteer to help in the kitchen and in workshops. Guest speakers are brought up to inspire the youth and share their own experiences. 




Each evening there is a large full-camp activity. The first night has been different each year. There have been escape rooms, murder mysteries, minute to win its, talent shows, carnivals, and movie nights. The second night is always a dance followed by a devotional with their camp director. Its rewarding to see these youth cry over the experiences they have in 2-3 short days. Its a special feeling as they all pack up and head home after rewarding, creative experiences. 




The counselors especially have experiences they never expect to have. Spending months planning and preparing and then days executing and leading a team while serving these youth is a lot of work. But its rewarding and special and a huge growing opportunity. As for me, I'm always exhausted by the end of it. But there's just something special that keeps me coming back year after year.



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