Thanks to the generosity and support of many (including our volunteers, Moms, and donors), this summer Mercy Center successfully launched Camp Rising Stars. Camp Rising Stars gave our kids the opportunity to spend the summer with their peers, and taught them that learning can be fun... even in the summer! Some of the children have even said that they like reading, math, science, and geography more since having been at camp! Over 50 children (Grades K-8th) regularly attended the 5-week day camp. With a strong focus on reading and math skills, the program also included science experiment, geography games, theater games, arts & crafts, and team building exercises. The 6th-8th Graders were asked to come up with and lead the recreational activities for the K-2nd and they really bonded with the younger children. Our campers also learned about nutrition, and their healthy lunches were prepared by the moms! Field trips included adventures to The Tenement Museum, The Brain exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History, the Community Garden, The Science Barge, and Keansburg Amusement Park. We are very grateful for all our volunteers, Moms, and supporters who made Camp Rising Stars possible, giving us the chance to provide such a wonderful experience for the kids and truly enhancing their lives this summer!