During this past summer I was given the opportunity to volunteer at our Southside Summer Camps and I learned so much about what it means to be a leader and taking initiative in group settings. One specific story from the summer that has impacted me was during one of the weeks of our multi-sport camps where I built a strong connection with one of the campers.
At the beginning of the week, I was having a difficult time trying to get “Sally” to participate in the competitive group activities. After getting the sense that her home life was difficult, I took the opportunity to draw near to her. As the week progressed, our relationship grew and we built a trust with each other. I saw that she became more confident participating in the activities with the group, and I encouraged her to interact with the other kids at the camp.
By the end of the week, I realized that she had made my week so enjoyable and that I would never forget my friendship with her, even though I only had that one week to get to know her. In the fall, we happened to run into each other at a clothing store and I was surprised that she remembered me. It was encouraging to me that I had made an impact on her life.
From this experience, I learned the importance of reaching out to those who are more shy and struggle to feel comfortable in group settings.