All in all it was an excellent project. It was great to see the children showing so much interest in Art & Craft, interacting with their peers, taking part in discussions, asking questions and, generally, having a good time.

The Optimist Club of North Portmore hosted its inaugural summer camp recently at the Independence City Primary School.

Seventy one children, ranging from four to 14, participated in the four-day exercise.

At the summer camp's opening ceremony, Portmore mayor Keith Hinds gave the main address. The ceremony was also attended by parents and well-wishers.

The camp was geared at participation in the Arts as well as awakening and reinstilling in campers a sense of responsibility and awareness of what was taking place in the society. Hence, they took part in the following activities - art and craft, music, dancing, storytelling, outdoor activities, guidance counselling, etiquette and grooming.

The police were on hand and spoke to them about "keeping themselves safe". In addition, a member of the Child Development Agency introduced them to aspects of the Child Care and Protection Act, as well as a guidance counsellor who spoke to them about values and attitudes.

They were given demonstrations on how to play the keyboard and the guitar, shown dance techniques and did various aspects of art and craft.

interactive discussion

Bobette Morgan, youth activities director, said, "one high point of the camp was last Thursday when, after an interactive discussion and demonstration from a member of the HEART Trust NTA's hospitality team, the children assisted in setting the tables for lunch. Members of the club served them their lunches in a formal setting and they were made to use their knives and forks while they have their meals."

"This proved quite amusing in some instances, as many of the children struggled to get through this exercise. However, they were assisted by members of the club who guided them through the process."

On the final day, an exhibit was mounted of the work done by the students. They were feted and given gift packages that included back-to-school supplies, items for personal hygiene and snacks.

The summer camp was made possible through sponsorship from the business community and contributions from members of the Club. It was totally free for the participants and included the provision of a snack in the morning and lunch.

"All in all it was an excellent project. It was great to see the children showing so much interest in art and craft, interacting with their peers, taking part in discussions, asking questions and generally having a good time," Morgan said. "This project was well planned and executed by the Club. It was a great first project. For next year we will build on the strengths and develop the weak areas so that it will be bigger and better than this year. It was a great effort!