This year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rockland County’s Camp Scholarship Fund was able to send 25 Littles to local Rockland summer camps. Three other Littles were also employed as counsellors.  We weren’t able to perform this act of service alone; it truly takes a village! We are grateful for the support and generosity of the following: Clarkstown Town Camp, Day Camp in the Park, Deerkill Day Camp, Gate Hill Day Camp, and the Town of Haverstraw Day Camp.  Along with the aforementioned camps, BBBS Littles were also able to attend Camp Nyack, Village of Haverstraw Day Camp, Rockland BOCES Summer Camp, and the Rockland County Community College Camp.

BBBS of Rockland County recognizes the National Council of Jewish Women – Rockland Section.  The NCJW has been financially supporting BBBS of Rockland County’s summer camp program since 2015.  This year, the NCJW joined with BBBS of Rockland County and helped enable seven of our Littles to go to camp.  We are so grateful for this ongoing partnership.

In addition, we also give thanks for a special, proactive and passionate volunteer.  While respecting her wishes to remain anonymous, we recognize that because of her diligence, many of our Littles were able to attend camp; some for the very first time.

Littles and their Parents also expressed their heartfelt appreciation:

One Little wrote:

“Dear Big Brothers Big Sisters, thank you for letting [me] attend a summer program.  You guys helped me get out of my house and participate in outdoor activities.  It was a great thing you did for me.  I met many people there.  I’ve learned a lot when I was in the camp. I feel more open minded about things now.  Thank you with all my heart, Adonis.”

Parents sharing their gratitude said:

“Good morning Sarah, me and my son Da’vonte want to thank you for allowing [him] to be able to go to camp this year.  This is his first time ever going to camp because I couldn’t afford it, but you and BBBS made it possible for him.  He had so much fun, he didn’t want to leave, and he made some new friends.  Thank you and BBBS for making this happen.  When he found out he was going he was so happy talking about it to everyone.  Thank you and BBBS and God bless, Priscilla”

“Thank you to you all. You guys are the best team! Thank you for all you do for our family and this community.  God continues to bless all of you and your families!  Thank you BBBS of Rockland, Angelica”

“Good afternoon, I would like to express appreciation and gratitude to Big Brothers Big Sisters for being there for my son, Leo, and enhancing his summer by funding his summer camp.  Leo had so much fun and made friends at the camp.  Thank you for your ongoing support., Chaya”

“I thank you for having Isaiah as a camper at Deerkill. I know things were hard at the beginning but he turned himself around and was a good camper. Hopefully he can go next year. He cried on his last day. Thank you, Minnie”