Pictured are John, age 14 from Oneida and Zackary, age 15 from Canastota.
(Madison County, NY – Aug. 2015) Community Action Partnership’s Mentoring Program held its annual Guy’s Retreat activity for its 7th year on July 22.
Boys from the Mentoring Program along with mentors came together for a night of fun, food and friends. Kicking off the night (seriously) was a set of activities as the boys played Bubble Ball Soccer, had challenges in Sumo Suits and learned about cool science tricks that were hands on. As the boys engaged in these activities, they were learning how to work together and work with sportsmanship.
Dennis Hoover, one of the Program Supervisors, stated, “It was so great to see these boys, each so different from each other and from different backgrounds working together and being so supportive of one another.” After the different activities, all the boys joined together for a tug of war challenge.
Special guest, John Murray, a graduated senior from Chittenango High School, spoke with the boys about tips for succeeding in school and participating in extracurricular activities. The boys were encouraged to do their best and make great memories for their school years.
The boys then capped off the night with food cooked over a campfire followed by s’mores.
Each boy received a gift bag and the chance to “shop” with some items to add to their bags.
CAP Mentoring Program has been in existence since 2003. If you think you might have an hour or more a week to “mentor” a youngster aged 8-15, please call Dennis Hoover or Jessica Ginney at 697-3588. Mentoring can be a rewarding experience for the child and the adult. Just think about it – who mentored you in your life? The following funders make the program and activities possible. Department of Social Services, Madison County Youth Bureau, OPWDD, United Way of Greater Oneida and may other contributions throughout Madison County.