Thursday, October 20, 2016

Two North Polk Students Attend Kiwanis Camp OK



Ian Sharp and Hailey Hines, both 11 years old, attended the 2016 Kiwanis Camp OK with 120 kids from Iowa and Nebraska in June at the YMCA Camp in Boone.  Even though both of them had to forfeit their cell phones and iPods and had only 5 minute daily showers for the week, they felt the loss was outweighed by learning independence, responsibility, how to get along with others, and how to make the right decisions.  They learned through their experiences with nature, water activities, leadership skills, science, and opportunities to share talents in different subjects.

At the closing ceremonies, Hailey received an Award for being the "Sunshine" from Sunnyside Cabin and Ian' received "Having The Heaviest Pack" Award after his Counselor had to help him carry his pack when he arrived.  Ian's advice to future campers is to pack only clothes and a sheet while Hailey's advice is to try every activity the Camp has to offer, and she looks forward to communicating on her cell phone with all her new friends. 

After parents and grandparents arrived Saturday at the end of the camp, and all the goodbyes were said and all their packs were stowed in their vehicles, Hailey and Ian both fell asleep on the ride home.  The Kiwanis Club of Polk City hopes this experience fosters a desire to explore the world of experiences Kiwanis offers to the children of our Community through North Polk Key Club at the NP High School . www.kiwanisclubpc.blogspot.com