By Hon. E. P. Chet Greene
For the past 18 years, it has been my privilege to sponsor the Annual Children’s Summer Camp in St. Paul’s, an initiative that has grown far beyond what I envisioned back in 2007. What began as a simple two week program has blossomed into a three week cornerstone of our community, embraced not just by the children of St. Paul’s community but also by families from neighboring villages.
This camp is more than just a seasonal activity; it is a labor of love, fueled by the dedication of volunteers, the generosity of sponsors and the unwavering trust of parents who year after year entrust us with their children’s summer experience. I owe an immense debt of gratitude to every individual and organization, especially the Transport Board that has played a role in making this initiative possible with the movement of the hundreds of children each year. Without their support, we could not have sustained, let alone expanded, this program.
And expanded it has! From its early days of dancing, arts and crafts and sports, the camp now offers horseback riding, sailing, esports, Warri, music lessons (guitar, pan, piano and drumming), tennis, pickleball, karaoke, STEM activities, agriculture, hiking and cooking. Each new addition has been driven by a simple question: How can we give our children more opportunities to discover their passions and talents?
This year, we’ve reached full capacity, yet turning any child away is a heartbreaking prospect. Parents in St. Paul’s have come to rely on this camp not just as a summer pastime, but as a trusted space where their children are nurtured, challenged and inspired. That trust humbles me and it reaffirms my commitment to ensuring this program continues to thrive.
Tomorrow, July 7th, we kick off “Youth Empowered to Succeed” Camp 2025 at Lucky Eddie’s in English Harbour and I can hardly contain my excitement. To our incredible facilitators and volunteers, thank you. Your dedication shapes futures. To our sponsors; your belief in this mission fuels its success. And to any community member willing to lend a hand, we welcome you. There is always room to do more.
To my beloved campers, this is for you. May this year be filled with laughter, learning and unforgettable moments. Happy Camp 2025! Let’s make it the best one yet.
