Nannie Helen Burroughs (1879-1963), our Guiding Ancestral Light, would be pleased to know that DC girls ages 5-13 enjoyed 5 weeks of being children untethered by technology and returning to simpler times. iThings 2 Collard Greens Summer Camp for Girls 2019 sponsored by Arts for Our Children, Inc served up to 57 girls at the Kingsbury Center in upper Northwest Washington from June 24 – July 26.
Predominantly African American, the girls came from a variety of economic, religious and cultural backgrounds throughout the city. Each day included time for fun and learning. After morning circle of meditation, exercise, singing and discussing the African proverb and affirmation of the day, the girls broke off into age groups for classes in knitting, sewing, yoga, dance (both African and modern), arts and crafts, music, poetry, writing, health and etiquette. Their special workshops conducted by guest teachers included Playback theater, gardening, jewelry making and drumming. Special workshops included beading for all girls and a social justice workshop for the older girls. Our tea party, catered by a camp parent, gave the girls an opportunity to “dress-up” and practice their etiquette and included a classical piano performance by one of our summer youth employees. “Nannie Helen Burroughs” even made an appearance.
What is camp without field trips? Girls, counselors and staff went to North Beach, MD for a play day in the Bay and to Wolf Trap for a Taratibu performance in the park. The girls also enjoyed a jazz concert performed by the youth of the Washington Jazz Arts Institute at Peoples Congregational Church.
Water balloons and Slip n Slide along with lots of time jumping rope, and playground pay with an attempt to learn jacks rounded out a fun summer. Our closing program was filled to capacity with parents, friends and the community enjoying the girls performances with rousing applause and tears of joy.
Thank you to the hardworking staff and volunteers, Kingsbury School, our partners – the Marion Barry Summer Youth Employee Program and DC Parks and Recreations Food Program, United Way of the National Capital Area and the many donors of money and in-kind contributions.
The meaning of the number 8 represents the balancing of both the material and spiritual aspects of an experience and is associated with success and professionalism. Year 8 of iThings 2 Collard Greens Summer Camp for Girls met all of those marks. We give thanks and look forward with your help to year 9.
Mama Kathy, Founder of iThings 2 Collard Greens & Camp Director
Beatrice Davis-Williams, Executive Director, Arts for our Children, Inc. & Administrator
Cheryl Shumake, Camp Director
Photographs
