The picturesque Gibson Ranch Park in Sacramento hosted the camp. For four days, more than fifty children aged six and older immersed themselves in Ukrainian traditions, creativity, fun, and spiritual values.
This was reported by the camp organizers, Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
Each day of the camp had its own theme, helping to create shared experiences and instill important values such as love, compassion, faith, and good deeds in the children. Dozens of children aged six and older participated, as well as teenage volunteers who served as counselors.
The first day began with icebreaker games, team-building activities, prayer, and a barbecue under the slogan “We are one big family.” The children made flags and cards of kindness and received symbolic "Boxes of Joy" at the end.
The second day, "To be good is to be strong," focused on mercy. The children learned how to pray and make the sign of the cross. They played the game "Pass on a Kind Word," molded plasticine, danced, and competed in relay races. The main message was that kindness is a strength that changes the world, not a weakness.
The third day was called "God gave everyone a talent." During a talent show, the children revealed their talents by singing, reading poems, playing the guitar, drawing, painting T-shirts, and creating a "Toy Exchange Cabinet." The day ended with a piñata and a flash mob to the song "Stephanie."
The final day, "Together We Can Do Anything," was a celebration of unity, hugs, and gratitude. Highlights included a water battle on a giant inflatable slide, a joint prayer for Ukraine, and creating postcards for Ukrainian soldiers. All the children received thanks, gifts, a festive cake, and ice cream.
The Ukrainian youth played a special role, acting as leaders, organizers, and inspirers of the event. Sofiika Turchak, Nadiika Voloshchuk, Maksym Kruk, Khristinka Voloshchuk, Ivan Bondar, Solomiika Hrytsuk, Yevheniia Vavrynchak, Viktoriia and Nazarii Kuchvara, and Anastasiia Boiko were these young leaders who became the heart of the camp. They were an example of faith, enthusiasm, and boundless love for children.
A special highlight was the emphasis on supporting Ukrainian identity. In every word, song, and gesture, the children revealed their love for their culture, language, and faith. The camp was not only a place of leisure but also a space where conscious Ukrainian youth in the United States were raised.
Photo: Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Church
Author: Inna Mikhno