GREENSBORO, N.C. — “This is our first ever camp! Just started off today," exclaimed camp director, Shep Byles.
It’s a day of firsts at the Creative Aging Network, as the sound of communing between generations can be heard.
“One of the biggest focuses that we have is to bridge the gap between the generations. So, we’re trying to bring a conversation between our grandparents and grandkids," said Byles.
That’s the mission of the new CAN’S Grands Summer Day Camp,
“We saw an opportunity to bring in programming that was specifically for gardening and arts-based programming... we have Native American crafting session where our folks are making pouches or medicine bags... we will be making cheese," Byles said.
As you can see, it’s not a summer camp with canoeing or intensive hiking, it’s a day camp the seeks to exercise more than just your body.I t’s exercising that familial connection within generations.
“This is my granddaughter, she is my everything, so wherever she goes, I go too," proclaimed one grandfather.
“This is Taylor, she’s actually my niece, I had to step in for her grandmother... I thought it would be a great way to spend the summer," said one aunt.
At its heart, it's giving family, both found or biological, a place to connect with themselves, to each other, and to nature.
“This is a pilot program and we hope to expand to not just older adult demographic but serving the whole triad and the state of North Carolina.”
If you or your loved one is interested in joining the day camp, more information can be found on their website under CANs Grands Summer Camp. Spaces for multiple different days are currently open.