“Keep climbing, Braydon!”

[David Sandusky]

In all our programs at Camp Fire Rockies - Central Rockies Council, we encourage kids to see the value of “hard work, healthy choices and respect for self, others and community.”

The following story is a great example of those values coming to life within children we serve. A special thanks to our Council Service directors Erin Lasky and Hollie Smith for their leadership in inspiring Dry.

During one of our collaborative camps this summer, we provided inner-city youth (many of which were experiencing homelessness) indoor and outdoor rock climbing opportunities. On a field trip to Evergreen, Colorado to go hiking and rock climbing we had a group of 4-6th graders. Upon arrival we discussed Leave No Trace principles and quickly began our hike to the crag. The hike proved to be difficult for many of the kids, in particular Dre. This was one of his first hiking experiences and found it physically challenging. When we arrived at the crag we began to orient the students with the rock climbing equipment and safety rules. Dre, as well as the rest of the students, was quite excited to have an opportunity to climb on real rock. During the next few hours Braydon persevered and maintain a great attitude towards himself and the group. Although he never made it to the top of the climb he conquered his personal climb within. At the reflection activity the students expressed their personal best parts of the day – and Dre was so excited when he thought he lost 10 pounds. Although Dre was exhausted by the activities, he was the first to sign up for our field trip the next week.

The following week we took the campers to the indoor climbing wall. Dre quickly put on his equipment and was eager to start a climb. Instead of choosing a beginner climb, Dre picked one of the more advanced climbs. After several attempts on the advanced climb, Dre wasn’t able to make it to the top. We encouraged him to try one of the beginners climb and he agreed. Dre was still trying his best and fellow campers immediately noticed his dedication. After making it to the middle of the climb, it looked as if he was going to give up. His fellow campers and the staff member weren’t ready for him to quit and began encouraging him loudly. This encouragement and Dre’s personal commitment made it possible for him to reach the top of the climb.

During the reflection that day Dre shared with the group his desire to make healthier life-styles choice but not eating donuts anymore!

Thanks again to Erin and Holly and those who support Camp Fire USA - Central Rockies Council; we have a long way to go in the important mission and your continued support makes it possible!

Yes you can help! Visit www.CampFireRockies.org and find the donate now button. Thanks!