While every youth in our Emergency Group Homes has experienced a unique and difficult journey, they deserve happy summer memories like all kids. Unfortunately, childhood and summer end all too soon, and both should be enjoyed to the fullest.

Thanks to our supportive community and incredible staff, this summer is jam-packed with fun in the sun as well as engaging activities, even on rainy days.

Getting from here to there has never been more exciting than hiking, biking, paddle boating, swimming, or rock climbing. For Patty, her favorite has been “walks on the beach at sunset.”

Daniel and Dierdre prefer the sporting life playing football, volleyball, basketball, and kickball, and track and field practice with a college student mentor. However, time alone is also welcomed using the exercise equipment or dancing to their favorite music.

Those at our Boys’ Group Home will long remember this summer when they spent many afternoons on the Slip n Slide in the yard and the taste of their favorite shrimp sizzling on the barbecue.

Bad weather never stops Team Shelter! When rain doesn’t permit making smores at the water park, much fun is had indoors with photography, arts and crafts, making jewelry, Wii bowling, and more. Olivia has spent many a happy hour cooking, especially making her favorite cornbread.

Extraordinary adventures have also been on the summer menu, like the visit to the Smithsonian’s traveling exhibit The Bias Inside Us and Great America. Not to be forgotten was an exciting 4^th of July complete with fireworks and late-night movies, and popcorn.

At our homes, all kids are valued for who they are, and birthdays are a celebration enjoyed by all. Special recognitions and treats from our staff’s homemade strawberry shortcake to ice cream cakes add to the festivities.

For some, this summer will be remembered in different ways. As one youth said, “I’ve had a chance to open up more and just be me.” What a beautiful memory to savor!

Thanks to our generous community for providing the opportunities for kids to participate in the above activities and experiences. We always appreciate tickets, passes, and other donations that add so much to their success. For more information, contact Zoe at zmcgrath@shelter-inc.org