by Julie Capaldi
Like a racehorse at the starting gate, I have been chomping at the bit to talk about Camp iRock Year 3. I don’t have to tell you, dear donor, how I feel about this wonderful, amazing and life changing literacy program for struggling readers. With every ounce of my being, I know that little lives will be changed forever because children can READ! You play a huge part in their success because you support our education impact work. You should feel really proud of yourself because we are certainly proud of YOU…and grateful beyond words.
Here are some details about this year’s program. Hold on to your hat because it’s a bit of a wild ride!
CHAPTER 1: RECRUITMENT
Our first priority when planning for Year 3 is to have maximum attendance at all three sites. The reality is that last year we had the ability to handle an additional 100 students but we couldn’t convince families to allow their children to attend. It was frustrating to know that children who really needed Camp iRock didn’t get to go.
So here’s what we did!
Students were identified and invited much earlier than last year. We created a really cute video to send to parents with their student's invitation. We also held two parent orientation meetings to explain Camp iRock and answer any of their questions. I honestly was overwhelmed and speechless at the response and attendance at those parent meetings. There were over 100 people at each of the three meetings that were held in March.
A few weeks later, I checked in with my School District “sister,” Traci Boyles, for my weekly Camp iRock update. Did I mention that I am obsessed with Camp iRock? It’s my favorite thing on earth.
I nearly ran my car off the road when she told me we were almost full with 3rd graders. “OMG, what about the younger grades?” I exclaimed. My heart started beating really hard and I had to stop the car and call her back and get her to repeat herself. I calmed down and realized that she was in control and it would work out…I hope!
CHAPTER 2: FUNDING
I am still waiting for a few large grants. I’ve learned the hard way not to be too optimistic so May is when I’ve decided to hit the panic button. If you see me on the street corner with a cup, you’ll know why. Seriously, if I have to get sponsorships for every child, I will go door to door to get the money. Just so you know, it costs between $1,800 and $2,000 per child for this 8 week transformative literacy experience.
CHAPTER 3: STAFFING
The Camp iRock staff is like family and I am so excited about how many counselors and teachers are returning. We just love each other and the children love us, too. It’s a LOVEFEST!
The selection process for teachers has become quite competitive and that means that we will have the very best literacy instruction…ever. The Pickens County YMCA leadership staff are all returning so imagine how great that will be for everyone involved. I am sure the Call Me Mister interns are lining up for this great experience to work with children before they enter their own classrooms!
CHAPTER 4: A PLACE FOR YOU!
Here’s the most wonderful news yet. We are creating Reading Buddies so the dozens of volunteers and donors who want hands on Camp iRock experience will be able to get in on the reading action! The Reading Buddy program is not fully developed yet, but you can reach out to Karen Culley, 864-850-7094-102 and she can let you know more information when we have it.
Stay tuned for details and please, come visit Camp iRock. It will change your life.