Posted by IGDVS Staff
Photographs by Ms. Guathan Chua, Katherine Chen, and Katherine Wang

Summer Camp 2024 centered around the theme of kindness, bringing together more than 20 families and 77 enthusiastic campers from near and far. Held from June 10-21, the camp fostered a vibrant community on the grounds of the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas where creativity, service, nature, and friendships thrived.

The camp offered a variety of activities tailored to explore kindness through different lenses. The teen boys were engaged in woodworking, community service projects, painting, and sports, while the teen girls immersed themselves in experimental theater, creative writing, service learning, arts and crafts, and hiking adventures. Throughout the camp, parents enthusiastically volunteered, contributing to the warm and inclusive atmosphere.

Younger campers, from kindergarten to fourth grade, delved into activities like shadow puppets, storytelling, dragon dance, songs, games, painting, nature arts and craft, beading, and meditation fostering their creativity and empathy.

A highlight of the camp was students of all ages and families coming together to create floral arrangements in honor of the 29th Anniversary of Venerable Master Hua’s Entering Nirvana. Buckets of flowers filled Wonderful Words Hall, and with mindful attention, campers worked to craft the most beautiful floral arrangements to offer to the Buddhas and Master Hua on this special day. It was a delight to witness the dedication and artistry displayed by the campers.

Another highlight was the camp’s culmination, where campers and families gathered to celebrate and showcase their projects and performances developed over the two weeks. It was a testament to the dedication of volunteers, teachers, student counselors, and teacher assistants, as well as the enthusiasm and participation of campers and their families.

Summer Camp 2024 not only provided enriching experiences but also strengthened bonds among families and individuals, making it a truly memorable and impactful event.

Special thanks to everyone who volunteered and supported IGDVS Summer Camp 2024! We hope that the spirit of kindness cultivated during the camp would continue to resonate in daily life, creating positive ripples in the wider community.