Push Camp is Coming
The Zip-Tower, the Boccie Ball courts, the deck behind the dining hall, and the wooden guardrails that line our sidewalks and wheelchair paths. What do these things have in common? They were all built by Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity members as part of Push America, and that list barely scratches the surface of what this organization has done for Camp ASCCA.
Push America was founded by Pi Kappa Phi members in 1977 and remains the exclusive service learning project of the fraternity. It’s mission is to instill lifelong service in its members and to serve people with disabilities. Camp ASCCA has benefited from these services for more than 20 years.
For one week in both the spring and summer, Pi Kappa Phi members from various colleges donate their time and labor skills to improve Camp ASCCA. While most of their college friends are enjoying beach vacations, these young men are spending their Spring Break doing construction for Push Camp. It really speaks to the character of the Push America organization and reflects very well on the individuals who make that sacrifice.
In the summer, Build America visits Camp ASCCA as part of a six week team event that begins in Cleveland, Ohio and concludes in Washington D.C.. While at Camp ASCCA, team members not only build and improve the facilities, but they dive headfirst into the camp itself. They join us for meals, participate in scavenger hunts and the talent show, and they aren’t afraid to “bust-a-move” at the dance.
We’ve even recruited summer staff from Push America. The most recent example is Matt McMillan. Matt first visited Camp ASCCA in 2005 as part of Build America and liked it so much he applied to be a summer counselor in 2006. Next week, Matt will return as a member of Push Camp and has already confirmed that he will be returning as a counselor this summer.
On a personal note, I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Matt through the 2006 summer camp sessions and the Disney Trip, and I think he is an excellent example of what Pi Kappa Phi and Push America represent. Pictured, below, is Matt and fellow 2006 summer counselor Megan Killion.
On Saturday afternoon, the 2007 Push Camp begins with arrivals and dinner. The work will begin on Sunday morning and will conclude Thursday morning. Expect full and comprehensive coverage on next week’s events. With any luck, I will have video interviews from several members of the team, as well as photos from the various projects throughout the week. Be sure to check back every day for construction progress pictures and stories about how these young men are working to make camp better.
