BGC South East offers camps to support academic success and engagement

BGC South East (formerly the Boys and Girls Club of Kingston & Area) received $7,500 from our Spring 2021 Community Grants program to support their Academic Boost Summer Camp (ABC). The funding went towards subsidized registration fees, helping make this educational program accessible to all.

Over 200 children ages 6-11 participated in the camp, which integrated academic learning and educational concepts into art, science, technology and sports-based activities. The impact of this dynamic program produced educational and social engagement among students, parents and instructors.

“I think something that is great to see again is students creating bonds through learning and challenging new concepts,” said one of the ABC Instructors. “We even have had returning students help out first-time ABC students! I’m thankful for ABC as it has given me the opportunity to do what I love and feel the joy and reward from working with children.”

Children have faced many obstacles during the COVID-19 pandemic, including transitioning to remote learning. This program offered students the chance to meet in person and develop their academic skills in fun and engaging ways.

A BGC parent expressed their appreciation for the program, saying that their son’s reading and math skills improved greatly after attending the camp for two weeks.

Given the amount of community interest in the program, BGC South East is planning to continue the camp and support student success throughout the ongoing effects of the pandemic.