Summer Camp Registration in Full Swing

As the kids return to school after spring break, everyone's thoughts turn to the next break: SUMMER! Where to go on vacation, buying new shorts and a swim suit, getting the boat ready, and registering children for Summer Camp at Pearce. 

Registration began March 1 and is setting a record pace. Operations Director Carie McIntyre explains the reason for the camp's success. "We have a very high quality program." 

McIntyre focuses on three key areas to build quality: curriculum, staff, and value. The curriculum is diverse and provides a variety of ways for campers to interact with the subject matter. Reading, science, and math are core subjects, but cursive handwriting will also be presented along with yoga, and art. Although there is not a lecture period and text book, responsibility and social development are a large part of the curriculum and taught in every aspect of camp. And what would summer be without fun? Swimming, field trips, organized and free play, dodge ball, and inside and outside games provide campers with a well-rounded day.

Exceptional Summer Camp counselors bring this curriculum to life. Intelligent and motivated, summer camp counselors represent some of the brightest young adults in our community. Kyle Kerr and Sophia Vojta are just two examples of the staff members who spend their summer with Pearce campers. 

	Kyle Kerr

Kyle is a full-time nursing student in his junior year at Methodist College in Peoria. After graduation, he would like to practice psychiatric nursing.

Kyle joined Pearce in 2013. He has served as a counselor in Summer Camp, Day Camp, and Before and After School Care. He has supervised the Exergame Room, dance parties, and many other youth activities and events. When he's not with the children, you can find him at the front desk, greeting members and answering questions. Kyle has also earned the Members First award for excellence in member service.

During high school, Kyle served as vice-president of the student body and president of Key Club. He was a member of the marching and jazz bands, National Honor Society, and president of the Spanish National Honor Society. In college, Kyle is a member of the Student Nurse's Association and Student Government Association and has earned a spot on the honor roll.

	Sophia Vojta

This summer will be Kyle's fifth year as a counselor. "I enjoy watching the campers grow up," says Kyle. "And I like being a positive influence in their lives to help shape them into kind and compassionate adults."

Sophia Vojta grew up participating at Pearce in soccer, basketball, and After School care.

Sophia is currently a senior at IVC where she is a member of the National Honor Society and the German National Honor Society. She is also captain of the Chillicothe Girl's Rugby team and in cheerleading, band, and two choir groups. After graduation, she will attend Bradley University to study Music Business.

	Priscilla Reny

Her involvement in Summer Camp began in 2013 as a volunteer junior counselor. In 2015, she became a camp counselor. "I love working with the kids because there is never a dull moment," says Sophia. "There is always something exciting happening or something silly to laugh about! We work hard to make Pearce a fun and constructive environment."

Leading the Camp staff this year will be Priscilla Reny as the Youth Programs Coordinator. Priscilla joined Pearce last year, teaching tumbling and working as a counselor. She also led last year's Extra Fun Specialty Camp Braids, Bows, & Beautiful Nails. Our youth programs will benefit from her background in healthcare, art, and dance.