d.+Castlegar+-+Camp+ESQ

Update September 25, 2012

Castlegar and District Community Service (CDCSS) has hired a male family support worker who will be working on the Camp ESQ project in the fall of 2012. The intent is to hold another weekend camp for boys and continue to connect them with positive role models and mentors in the community.

For more information on Camp ESQ and future plans, please contact Andrew Earnshaw, Executive Director of CDCSS.

Watch the video of James McFadden and Andrew Earnshaw, speaking about the project.

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Project Coordinator James McFadden organized Camp ESQ as an opportunity for identified “at risk” boys to engage in fun, group building activities and be introduced to 5 local organizations. At risk boys were referred to James who worked with them 1-1 as a lead up to the September 9th -11th, 2011 camp which 14 boys attended. “We targeted at risk kids and we got them,” says James. Though challenging behavior was presented, structure, supervision and camaraderie prevailed. All 14 boys enjoyed the experience and are interested in signing up to at least one of the activities presented. Five youth are interested in Tai Kwan Do, four in Guitar Lessons, two in Scouts, eight in the New Life JY youth group and 2 in KP Impact. James fundraised with local businesses to have funds available for youth to have assistance for group fees if necessary. James has continued to work with the boys 1-1, over the following months, to ensure the connections to the groups they have chosen are successful. All of boys were actively involved in the programs of their choosing through June 2012. Many brought friends with them, and other referrals from community organizations which increased the number of boys affected to 26.