Campers "making a difference"  

Columbia Association's Camp Make a Difference is a unique experience for youth during summer vacation. Campers learn how volunteerism helps others in need — and the rewards it offers for the person who gives.

Both Kyle Guzek, 13, of Clarksville, and Nicki Mallon, 13, of River Hill, are veterans of the camp. This year was Kyle's second, and Nicki has been involved for three years.

"I make good friends, like helping the community and like spending time with seniors," Nicki said. She also volunteers during the school year at her school's media center.

"It's a lot better than sitting at home, watching TV with potato chips," Kyle added. "It makes me feel better."

Other campers, like Stephanie Del Grosso, 14, of Columbia, also spend their free time volunteering. Stephanie regularly puts in hours at Tails of Hope Cattery, Columbia Horse Center and soup kitchens. Stephanie was convinced to try Camp Make a Difference by her friend, Cassandra Wethers, 13, of Jessup. Cassandra said knowing she's helping someone makes the work fun.

The campers spent a recent day helping sort food donations at Bridgeway Community Church's Community Cupboard, which collects food from county and state food banks, as well as local donors, and opens its doors to those who need food.

Joseph Choi, a minister at Bridgeway, said training tomorrow's leaders begins at home with instilling the value of helping others.

"It all begins here," he said.

Camp counselor Heather Clausen said the volunteer activities, organized by the Volunteer Center Serving Howard County, include helping neglected horses rescued by Days End Horse Farm, straightening books at the public library and spending time with seniors.

"A lot of the campers are go-getters," Clausen said. "They have leadership skills. They go above and beyond and are outgoing."

Activities include reflection time, where campers share their experiences of the day. And of course, there is time for fun, too. Campers experience day trips to places including Sandy Point beach and the National Aquarium in Baltimore. Twice a week, the campers visit CA pools.

Learn more about CA's camps at www.ColumbiaCamps.org.

Watch videos of other CA camps:
• Nature Camp
• Intro to Sports Camp
• Art Camp

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