Camp Goes Virtual, Fun is Real
This year Breanna’s Gift, like many other nonprofit organizations, has had to innovate like never before and I’m proud to say we’ve risen to the challenge. The core of our mission has always been, literally and figuratively, to provide in-person arts programming to children in hospitals and healthcare settings. Since COVID-19, this is no longer a current possibility, but our program team has made wonderful adjustments.
For example, every year since 2015, Children’s Minnesota hospital has asked us to join in their annual week-long camp. It is an overnight experience for kids who have been treated for cancer or are currently being treated for cancer. When we started, camp was called Camp VIP. It has since become part of a national organization called Camp Quality. The name has changed, but the intent, amazing camp experience and staff have remained the same. We loved every minute of bringing a visual arts class and dance class to campers. Of course, the gang was not able to be at the camp site this year, but that did not stop anyone from providing a virtually fun experience via Zoom!
Visual arts class was taught by program coordinator and teacher, Kim Gordon, with volunteer assistance by Gary. The project was a journal bound together using stickers that the kids created during class. And creative they were!
Dance Class was taught by artist/teacher, Shelley Westgor. Shelley taught the dance standing and Marsha did a seated version. Both versions were full of energy, and it was great to provide a full dance experience that included children who joined us from their hospital rooms.
This is just one of the ways Breanna’s Gift ensures we continue to reach children who are more isolated than ever during this unprecedented time. We are so appreciative for all our partners and supporters. Your encouragement and enthusiasm for new ideas in programming is essential. Learn more here about how we’re continuing to reach children with our new Art Take2 video programming.
And now, our kudos!!!
