Growing up, I participated in summer camps almost every year (usually sports camps). I didn't appreciate it at the time, but being in a structured (but fun) learning environment in the middle of a very unstructured summer break was very beneficial to me. Now, in a "grown-up" position, I'm happy to be returning to camp this year.
Camp GLOW (Girls and Guys Leading Our World) is a leadership camp started by Peace Corps Volunteers in Romania in 1995. Since then, it has spread to several other Peace Corps countries around the world, including Namibia. Camp GLOW is a week-long camp for exceptional Namibian students, ages 13 to 18, who have been nominated by community volunteers and teachers to participate because they have shown leadership ability within their communities. Many are orphans. Many are vulnerable children. Almost all of them come from rural areas. And every one of these kids would not otherwise have the chance to come to their country's capital of Windhoek, meet other bright learners like themselves from all different ethnic groups and all different locations from the entire country, or experience anything similar to the opportunity they will have at Camp.
At Camp GLOW, campers learn about a wide variety of topics, including self-discovery, HIV/AIDS, leadership, and planning for their future careers, all in a fun and highly active setting. This year, I'll be helping to coordinate activities during camp's leadership day. Although Peace Corps Volunteers have a significant role in planning and preparing for Camp GLOW, 16 young Namibians, ages 20-30, are selected as camp facilitators to serve as role models and leaders to the campers throughout the week. You can learn more about Camp GLOW via the internets: http://campglownamibia.weebly.com/.
One of the best things about Camp GLOW? It's completely free for campers! This year, which is the 13th year Camp GLOW will take place in Namibia, the program is being sponsored by FAWENA, or the Forum for Women Educationalists in Namibia, with help from Peace Corps volunteers. FAWENA works to improve the access to and quality of education for girls in Namibia. 80 campers are able to attend Camp GLOW because of the generosity and support of FAWENA, other partner organizations, and private donations.
Do you want to be a Camp GLOW supporter? You can! Your donations will be highly beneficial to a successful camp. If you wish to make a secure online donation to support Camp GLOW, please visit this website: http://www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/camp-glow (note that online donations are measured in South African rand, not American dollars). A contribution in any amount will be beneficial. A few American dollars goes a long way here in Namibia!
Please forward this information on to anyone and everyone you know who might like to help. Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or comments, and thanks for your support!
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