Antonio and Angel were among 50+ local youngsters who headed off to traditional summer camp or college exploration camp this summer with the help of the community. Wayfinders, a local nonprofit organization, funds summer activities for these students and matches them with year-round mentors from fourth grade through high school graduation. On their journey, they carried an array of clothing, toiletries, blankets, and other essentials found during a special shopping day at Crisis Assistance Ministry’s Free Store.
The brother and sister pair are grateful for their summer journeys made possible by the community’s support. Angel headed off to Gwynn Valley where she hoped to meet up with friends she made over the past six years of summer camp trips. Antonio’s summer destinations included a college readiness event at UNC Asheville before he joined younger scholars at Camp Grier for some traditional sleepaway camp fun. He was excited about making new friends and getting to stay on a college campus. The rising high school junior has been involved with Wayfinders since elementary school and is looking forward to making important choices about his future over the next 18 months.
We first met these siblings five years ago just before Angel’s first trip to camp through Wayfinders. Back then, she was looking forward to all the water activities as experienced camper Antonio patiently guided her through their shopping list until everything was checked off.
Now that summer has come to a close, they will carry their summer adventures with them back into the classroom. The lessons they gained were made possible, in part, by your generous donations of hygiene items, linens, and new or gently used clothing.
Want to contribute?
Check out our list of most wanted items along with our back-to-school wish list to find out what’s needed this season. Then swing by our convenient donation drive-thru Tuesday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. or Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with your donations.