Summer Camp Reigntes

Each morning this summer, The Salvation Army Eagle Creek corps community center came alive with sounds of laughter, learning, and children at play. “I’m so happy to have our doors open to the community for summer camp, because we know it has been missed,” said Captain Rachel Johnson, who leads the corps alongside her husband, Captain Aaron Johnson.

Eagle Creek’s beloved summer day camp had been dormant since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. It had left a noticeable void for many families who relied on The Salvation Army as a safe place for their children to learn, grow, and build friendships. Reviving this summer tradition became a top priority for the Johnsons when they arrived at the Eagle Creek corps a year ago.

“We’ve had so many families tell us they are excited that summer camp is back,” explained Captain Rachel. “This has been missing from our community, and it’s been a blessing to hear that families are now returning to Eagle Creek.”

This year’s summer camp was designed around two topics: community and learning. Each of the first four weeks had a specific focus: natural science, arts, sports, and community. 

“We took field trips to the Children’s Museum and Butler University. We brought guest speakers in like firefighters and police, and even took a trip to a local television station,” said D’Marco Cross, Community Center Coordinator. “These trips and guests gave the kids perspective about what it takes to be in a thriving community.”

For the final two weeks, Eagle Creek partnered with Patchwork Indy, a nonprofit that supports Indiana’s refugee population. This summer marked the debut of its Cultural Explorers Camp, which is designed to broaden children’s understanding of the world and cultures.

“We are traveling the world in two weeks,” said Dafney Lavache, Director of Community Engagement. “We are teaching the kids about all the unique cultures. It’s very important for children to learn to be more accepting of others.” Each day, children explored a different culture through hands-on lessons in South American art, Caribbean cuisine, South African music, and more. Each experience expanded their perspective and appreciation of diversity. 

“It’s incredibly important to learn about new cultures in today’s climate,” said Captain Rachel Johnson. “Especially being on the west side of Indianapolis, we have some of the most diverse population and it shows every Sunday at church.” As the children left on the last day of camp smiling, waving, and already talking about next summer, it was clear: Eagle Creek is once again a place where the future feels bright.