We survived 2020 and are heading into 2021 with hope! As you are aware, since March Of 2020 Rhonda and Diane have been working remotely while continuing to provide services. Programming has been virtual including our annual Walk & Roll and holiday parties.
While we certainly expect to resume in-person programming in 2021, we also must be realistic and protect those we serve from exposure to the COVID-19 virus. At this time, we are moving forward with virtual programming such as our Adult Hang-Outs twice a month. Because of the uncertainty around the end to social distancing, we unfortunately will not be hosting our Spring Family Breakfast for our younger families this year.
We know that our adolescents and young adults look forward to attending Empowerment Camp every June, and we were disappointed last year when we were forced to cancel because of the pandemic. Diane and Rhonda met with the Director of Camp Joy and have proposed a “Family Day Camp” for children aged 8 and above, their parents, and siblings to be held in June. The day camp will likely have small groups of campers meeting outdoors with a single or pair of counselors dedicated for the day to limit exposure. At least one parent will be required to be on site to provide assistance with medications, bowel and bladder routines. The parents will have separate programming focused on their needs. Of course this is all dependent upon the climate in regards to the pandemic. We are also considering an “Older Teen/Adult Virtual Day Camp” for those who would like to experience camp once again. As more information becomes available, we will share it with you.
Other programming such as our beloved Kids Fly and Holiday Parties also remain uncertain at this time, but we remain hopeful that face-to-face activities will open up as the year continues.
As we begin talking about the annual Walk & Roll, we plan to go “virtual” again this year, but it is early in the process so that may change as well based upon the pandemic. Cross your fingers and say a prayer that we can be together once again on Saturday, September 25th IN-PERSON at Miami Whitewater Forest to celebrate our 21st annual event.
Again, we will keep you posted of our plans.We miss seeing everyone and their smiles at our events, so let’s continue to work together to eradicate the virus by social distancing, washing our hands, and wearing our masks (if we are able) so that we can be together soon.