A reflection of a memorable day camp that nurtured curiosity and inspired young leaders.

By Jessica Richmond, Environmental Educator (Lower Mainland, BC)

July 21, 2025

I’ve been teaching here at A Rocha for the last seven years, and this year’s Youth Earthkeepers Camp stands out in my heart and mind as one of my favorites!

On the first day of camp, I noticed we had a quiet but curious camper. He was a little quiet and reserved when participating in activities, but shared thoughtful, intelligent, and honest reflections during group discussions.

Over the next few days, I watched this camper light up as he discovered his analytical leadership style and got to put his curious and strategic mind to work. He worked well alongside his diverse team as they prepared and cooked a meal for a competition, as part of “A Day in the Life of an A Rocha CSA member” session.

We set aside some time for nature journaling each day, but he carried his camp journal everywhere—to the pond for invertebrate collection, and even to a live hummingbird banding session, where he got to gently hold and release a bird as part of an ongoing research project! On the final day, he asked if he could return as a Junior Leader for other camps during the summer. He sparkled with quiet excitement as I gave him a heartfelt yes and a warm welcome, confident that his curiosity and leadership would be inspiring for younger kids in camps to come.

If you are looking for a transformational and fun week for you kids this summer, we still have space available in two of our summer camps: July 28-August 1 and August 5-August 8. Throughout the week, campers will explore different aspects of leadership—reliability, observation, stepping up, and communication—through hands-on experiences.

Our day camps don’t just explore nature—they grow future leaders. Sign up here today and give your kid a summer to remember!

Photos: Jessica Richmond