Author: Autumn Hill
There’s a rustic picture I imagine when thinking of summer camps, cabins nestled deep in the woods where gooey s’mores are roasted around a crackling fire on a cool night, where scary stories are told with the flickering glow of a flashlight.
Obviously, I only experienced summer camp through tv screens.
When my friends came back beaming of tanned skin, campfires, and lakes, I had very little interest in their sleep away camp enthusiasm. It was possibly the daunting endeavor of being surrounded by strangers far from the comfort of my home, the anxiety shackled me in place.
So going into CISV I had the grown up version of this unease, ruminating of aches from running after rowdy kids, and meeting new people whose knowledge would scrutinize my inexperience.
But I noticed that after each training or event, those fears were slowly drifted out of my daily thoughts.
The cultural awareness, the ability to make international relationships, as well as all the genuine people I met in such a short time, solidified my decision of joining the program.
What I love most about it is the sense of community, getting to know everyone, not just taking care of kids for a few weeks of my life and returning to my normal. It was about the parents, leaders, junior counselors, directors, and more; all coming together to create a program that is meaningful and lasting. I felt I was becoming apart of the CISV family.
During my local Faces Camp as a junior staff, my birthday fell onto the second week of camp. As a kid having a summer birthday, I always felt left out, unable to bring cupcakes and celebrate with my classmates. But this year was special, my camp made my birthday feel so exciting with a CISV flair. The kids sang happy birthday to me in Polish, Spanish, and Arabic. My mailbox overflowed with sweet birthday wishes, and I got to spend the day with my new friends, making an unforgettable memory.
And as I was leaving camp for the day, still joyful after such a memorable birthday, I was suddenly injured in a car crash.
And in that moment, through the tears indiscernible from the pouring rain, standing on the side of the road, my poor car smashed into the fire hydrant, I was overwhelmed.
But in such a difficult time, I was not alone.
Everyone who I had just left a few minutes down the road, rushed to help me. I was surrounded by people who cared for me.
And I felt grateful, their presence meant more than such immense material loss, I had gained a priceless community.
CISV has opened a new chapter in my life, teaching me the importance of showing up, and the value of communication and empathy on a deeper level. Through the training I sharpened my conflict resolution skills, my organization skills, and learning how to connect and uplift others.
Because of CISV I had an unforgettable summer.
From Energizers and kiitos to our cultural activities, an entire world was opened up. I’ve grown to become more social and fearless, any uncertainty I once had that hindered me has fallen to the wayside. I am touched that I have met people that are willing to support each other so we can all develop as a chapter, an organization. The inclusion CISV fosters has warmed my heart.
If you are considering joining CISV, and have reservations like I once had, know that you will develop the treasure of life long friendships and a stronghold of memories, as it is a journey that can shape your life in profound ways, as it has mine.
