(Milan, IN) – Genesis: Pathways to Success is celebrating the successful wrap-up of two summer camps that gave area students a chance to learn through imagination, creativity and hands-on projects.
The organization recently concluded its Milan CARES Hogwarts Camp and Brick Masters: LEGO Building Camp as part of its A Summer of STREAM programming.
Both camps focused on helping students build problem-solving, engineering, teamwork and critical-thinking skills through activities designed to feel more like play than schoolwork.
Milan CARES Hogwarts Camp was held at Milan Elementary School and gave students a week of Harry Potter-inspired activities. Campers were sorted into four teams, designed their own wands, visited Honeydukes for themed treats, took part in science experiments and competed in Quidditch.
The week also included a visit from a professional magician, who performed interactive tricks and illusions for campers.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to host this camp for our community,” said Brenda Schwering of Milan CARES. “It’s one of our kids’ favorite weeks of the summer because it’s a safe place where they can use their imaginations, learn new things, and spend meaningful time with their friends.”
Genesis thanked Milan CARES Inc. for its continued work to provide meaningful opportunities for youth in the Milan community. Milan CARES supports at-risk students in the Milan Community School Corporation through academic help and social-emotional learning experiences that build confidence, resilience and belonging.
The Brick Masters: LEGO Building Camp challenged students to think like engineers by using thousands of LEGO bricks to build functional machines and complete design challenges.
Campers created machines using levers, pulleys, slingshots and other simple mechanisms. They also recreated movie scenes, including a Star Wars scene involving Luke Skywalker and Cloud City, along with a scene inspired by Jaws.
The camp ended with a special mission from the “Genesis Space Administration.” Teams were asked to build different components of a rocket, including an engine, launch platform, support structures and a garden module.
Students earned gold 3D-printed rocket pieces throughout the week as they completed challenges and were recognized as top performers.
“Brick Masters: LEGO Building Camp gave students the chance to think like engineers while using their imaginations,” said Renee Lecher, Genesis Program Engagement Intern. “Seeing their confidence grow with each project was one of the most rewarding parts of the week.”
Genesis also thanked the Baxter International Foundation for its financial support of the Brick Masters camp, along with camp leaders John Goewert, Morgan Goewert and Steven Speelman for sharing their engineering knowledge with students.
The organization says more A Summer of STREAM camp opportunities remain available for students of all ages.
Families interested in upcoming camps can learn more or register at www.genesisp2s.org. Questions may also be directed to info@genesisp2s.org or 812-933-1098.
