Trustees Report
Overview
The HOPE Claudy Craigbane Summer Camp has continued to grow and thrive, achieving significant milestones this year. All available spots were filled within just 10 minutes of registration opening on our Facebook page, demonstrating the high demand and popularity of our camp. A waiting list was created, and due to cancellations, we were able to accommodate everyone on the list.
Sponsorship and Support
This year, we introduced a new jersey for our volunteers and participants, generously sponsored by Pristine Competitions, Greencore Garden Services, Clarendon Chiropractic, and Accounts by Paul. We were also proud to advertise Children in Crossfire on our jerseys, supporting their vital work.
Venues
Our camp was hosted across various venues including Claudy Pastoral Centre, Cumber House, Cumber Pitch, Claudy GAC, and Craigbane GAC. These locations provided the perfect settings for our wide range of activities.
HOPE Committee
The HOPE Committee remains in place, consisting of dedicated individuals who work tirelessly and selflessly to ensure the success of the camp. Their commitment is commendable, and they continue to drive the vision of HOPE forward.
Friends of HOPE
We received an outstanding response from the local community this year for our Friends of HOPE banner and advertising on our Facebook page. This support is invaluable and greatly appreciated.
Fundraisers
Our fundraisers, including bonus balls and an Easter raffle, were highly successful. These efforts helped to support the various activities and resources required to make the camp a success.
Inclusion
HOPE continues to attract children from every school in the area, representing all socio-economic backgrounds. We are committed to keeping the entrance fee low, making the program accessible to all. Our volunteers come from diverse age groups
and backgrounds, and we are proud to include a number of special needs children in the camp.
Volunteer Training
Volunteer training was a priority this year, with Briege O’Neill from the local safeguarding office providing child protection training. We also held a volunteer bonding night that included a drumming workshop, fostering teamwork and camaraderie among the volunteers.
HOPE Week (Help Our Parish Evolve)
This year, HOPE Claudy Craigbane Summer Camp welcomed 56 volunteers and 114 campers. The week was a tremendous success, filled with a wide variety of activities such as Art, Dance, Faith, Sport, and Away Days. We continuously strive to enhance the program, introducing new activities like Choir, Obstacle Course, Dodgeball, Zumba, Ceili Dancing, and many more. These activities were carefully planned and executed, contributing to an enriching experience for the children.
The behavior of the children throughout the camp was exemplary, reflecting the positive environment and structure provided by the camp.
Volunteers
Our volunteers are the backbone of the HOPE Camp. Their talent, enthusiasm, and dedication are truly inspiring. This year, we implemented a team structure where campers were divided into teams, each led by experienced team leaders who took charge of registration and daily activities. This approach greatly enhanced the organization and flow of the camp.
Safeguarding
Our safeguarding officer this year was Shauna, with Coastal Core present on-site every day to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants. All volunteers over 18 were vetted, and we introduced lanyards for easy identification. Our safeguarding procedures are consistently recognized as exemplary by the Diocesan Safeguarding Team.
Going Forward
Looking ahead, we aim to implement a system for claiming gift aid, which we have yet to achieve. Each year, the HOPE Camp improves in all aspects, from planning and safeguarding to the range of activities offered. We are committed to building on this year's success and continuing to provide an enriching, safe, and fun experience for all our participants.
Conclusion
his year's HOPE Claudy Craigbane Summer Camp was a resounding success, thanks to the hard work and dedication of our volunteers, the support of our sponsors, and the enthusiasm of our campers. We look forward to another year of growth and development, ensuring that HOPE continues to be a beacon of community spirit and inclusivity.