My four year summer experience by Delilah

My four year summer experience by Delilah - December 2019 Scholarship Essay

For the past four years I have volunteered and worked with kindergartners and 2nd graders at a local summer camp known as Summer Playground in Lynbrook, New York. I have spent approximately 90 hours there each summer participating in a variety of field events, crafts, trips, parades, and more. It has provided me with a sense of belonging as I knew I had a place to return to each summer. There is nothing more rewarding than coming back each year and seeing hundreds of eager filled faces awaiting what is in store for them. However, being in a state of authority for a large group of children requires an abundance of responsibility.

This organization has impacted me immensely and I have grown more than I have ever imagined possible. The experiences this program has given me are irreplaceable. I have created one of kind memories with both the kids and counselors that will stick with me for the rest of my life. This has helped me to give back to my community and inspired me to volunteer in other organizations as well. For example, two years into volunteering at Summer Playground I decided to take on a second volunteer opportunity referred to as Lynbrook Titans Cheerleading. Coincidentally, girls that I had worked with years prior were involved in the cheerleading program as well and they quickly recognized me.

All in all, being a part of this community-based organization has encouraged me to continue giving back and since I first started, I have gained over 200 hours of community service contributions. Despite what I have done for other organizations, I have also learned a lot about dedication, perseverance, and compassion and I hope to carry these newly-developed skills with me wherever my future may take me. Therefore, I can confidently say that since commencing at Summer Playground, I have grown for the better and have only benefited those around me including my community.